How to Become a Medic in the Air Force: A Step-by-Step Guide
The United States Air Force (USAF) relies heavily on its medical teams to provide high-quality health care to its personnel both stateside and abroad. If you’re interested in joining the Air Force and working as a medic, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover the steps you need to take to become a medic in the Air Force and give you an overview of the requirements and benefits that come with this rewarding career.
What is the Role of a Medic in the Air Force?
As an Air Force medic, also known as a Medical Services Airmen (70Z), you’ll provide basic and emergency medical treatment to patients in a military environment. Your duties may include:
- Providing health assessments and screenings
- Treating injuries and illnesses
- Administering medication and vaccinations
- Operating medical equipment and transporting patients
- Assisting with surgeries and other medical procedures
Requirements for Becoming a Medic in the Air Force
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a medic in the Air Force, here are the basic requirements:
- Age: 17-39 years old (with some restrictions for older candidates)
- Citizenship: United States citizen
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Physical fitness: Meeting Air Force physical fitness requirements
- Security Clearance: Possessing or ability to obtain a Security Clearance
How to Apply for the Air Force’s Medic Program
Once you’ve met the requirements, you can apply to become a medic in the Air Force through the recruitment process. Here’s what you need to do:
- Meet the minimum qualifications: Ensure you meet the basic requirements and requirements for your specific aircrew or ground duty roles.
- Test your skills: Take and score well on the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) test, known as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
- Choose your preferred branch: Select the Medical Services Airmen AFSC (70Z) on your Air Force qualification preference list.
- Complete the Airman Transition Course: After signing enlistment papers, head to Lackland Air Force Base in Texas for processing, testing, and combat core training.
- Attend Basic Military Training (BMT): Go through 7 and 1/2 week long BMT at JBSA-Lackland.
Air Force Medical Careers
The Air Force has various medical careers paths that you can pursue depending on your skills and expertise. Here are some roles that you can consider as an Air Force medic:
- Medical Technician (70Z0: Medic): Provide basic emergency care and assist with emergency services.
- Warrant Officer (60T0: Medical Supply Specialist): Manage medical inventory, equipment, and procurement.
- Commissioned Officer (70O: Medical Officer): Make informed medical decisions, take command of medical units and operations, and serve on health promotion teams.
Becoming a USAF Medic: A Stepped Process
Here are the steps you’ll go through to become a certified USAF medic:
|
Medic Training
Course |
|
Basic Life Support Training
|
Emergency First Response Training
|
Occupational Health Training
- Basic Life Support Course (BLS) for Healthcare Providers: Learn standard precautions, CPR, bag valve mask (BVM), and automated external defibrillator (AED).
- Emergency Medical Response (EMR)**: Learn to respond quickly in emergency situations, secure scene, and provide triage.
- Aircrew Medical Training (for aeromedical evacuation personnel)**: Learn to care for patients in flight, air traffic control procedures, aircraft survival techniques, and safety regulations.
Benefits of Joining the Air Force as a Medic
Before deciding to join the USAF as a medic, you should know the great benefits that come with being part of this esteemed career path:
- Reservist and Active-duty Positions: Choose from permanent tour positions or part-time duty as a Reservist.
- Diversity of Assignments: Receive assignments in various positions and locations, including deployable units, hospitals, clinics, and medical simulation laboratories.
- Educational Opportunities: Pursue Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, as well as additional certifications and training via scholarships and tuition assistance.
Conclusion
Becoming a medic in the Air Force requires dedication and commitment, but it comes with numerous benefits and perks. If you’re fascinated by the idea of becoming an Air Force medic and giving back to your fellow countrymen, follow this article’s step-by-step guide to get started!
Table: Air Force Medics Career Paths
| Medical Career Path | Rank | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Technician | TSgt | Provide basic emergency care and assist with emergency services. |
| Medical Officer | Capt | Command medical units and operations. Serve on health promotion teams. |
| Medical Specialist | MSgt | Perform diagnostic tests, prescribe and manage medications, and plan and implement treatment plans |
References:
- USAF Enlistment Brochures
- USAF Official Website
- Healthcarejobs.com
- afpc.af.mil/vfs/medical/apply/military-medical/enlistment-process/what-it-takes-to-enlist/
