The International Health Specialist Program, established in 2000 by former Air Force Surgeon General Lt. Gen. Paul K Carlton Jr., extends the operational reach of the Joint Forces. This cadre of health professionals bring diversified international skills and knowledge of military and civilian health disciplines to full time advisor roles within Combatant Commands, Major Commands and Air Force Component Commands in support of Global Health Engagement strategies.

There are more than 400 Air Force International Health Specialists at military treatment facilities around the globe, ready to respond to global health engagement assignments, humanitarian assistance operations and major disasters.

Vision: To be the DoD’s go-to global health resource.

Mission: To optimally shape conditions through health-related opportunities that align with the National Security Strategy, National Defense Strategy, and National Military Strategy as expressed in CCMD campaign plans throughout all phases of conflict.

The USAF School of Aerospace Medicine courses are open to international military students, with the Advanced Aerospace Medicine for International Medical Officers course serving as its premier program.

The Defense Institute for Medical Operations is a U.S. Air Force institution that facilitates professional development, instruction and exchange among partner nations, with the goal of promoting military relevant global health capabilities.

The Uniformed Services University Health Sciences and the Air Force Medical Service sponsor officers to participate in advanced academic degree programs, preparing them to support and lead global health engagements.