Medics got it covered at 2012 Joint Service Open House Published May 21, 2012 By Melanie Moore 79th Medical Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- Joint Task Force National Capital Region Medical teamed up with the 11th Wing to conduct medical operations at the 2012 Joint Service Open House and Air Show. Over 109 medics working from across the National Capital Region included medics from U.S. Air Force 79th Medical Wing, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, U.S. Army Belvoir Community Hospital, Fort Meade, Prince George's County and the Pentagon. "It is truly a mesh of all civilian and Department of Defense medical resources from around the NCR to maintain patient safety and care," said Major James B. Goode, First Aid Station director. Over 200,000 visitors are expected at this year's JSOH. Medics have been strategically placed throughout the airfield to meet the visitors' medical needs. "We have foot patrol teams, comfort stations, medic cart teams, ambulance teams, Advance Cardiac Life Support teams and a first aid station placed throughout the airfield," said Goode. "The majority of patients present with minor illnesses and injuries, such as minor falls, scrapes and dehydration, though our medics are certainly trained to handle the broadest spectrum of emergencies," said Deputy Medical Director Major Martin J. Harssema, who additionally serves as an anesthesiologist, senior flight surgeon, and director of the 779th Medical Wing's Critical Care Air Transport Team program. "Patients with more substantial conditions such as cardiac arrest, neurosurgical issues or trauma are evaluated, stabilized and transported to appropriate facilities within the region to complete their care." Dehydration is a common problem seen by the JSOH medical staff in past air shows. "Save your water bottle instead of throwing it away. We have 26 water 'buffaloes' that visitors can use to fill up and stay hydrated," said Staff Sergeant Matthew Rosenberg, Fort Belvoir medic. Taking care of your body and watching where you walk as you look into the sky is good advice for all JSOH visitors. If that doesn't keep you safe, the JSOH medical staff is ready to assist.