60th Anniversary of Dependent Care Published Dec. 15, 2016 AFMS History Office The Dependents’ Medical Care Act, effective since Dec. 7, 1956, enabled dependents of military personnel to be treated by civilian doctors in cases of pregnancy, serious injuries, or illnesses requiring hospitalization. The law also opened up medical facilities of all services and the U.S. Public Health Service to Air Force dependents. The Dependents’ Medical Care Act outlined operations of the program, specific exceptions, and eligibility requirements. Here, an Airman and his wife get the final okay from the family doctor on the second visit.