A team approach to the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries suffered by Navy recruits: a method to decrease attrition and improve quality of care

Mil Med. 1997 May;162(5):354-9.

Abstract

In 1991, musculoskeletal injuries prevented 488 recruits from completing basic training at the Naval Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois. These losses cost the Navy an estimated $5 million. To respond to the large number of injured recruits, a multi-disciplinary team was developed in 1992. Along with this team, a three-tiered, systematic approach to injuries was implemented. These changes were associated with an increase in the recovery rate for injured recruits requiring physical therapy, a decrease in the amount of training time lost per injury, and fewer total lost training days due to musculoskeletal problems. In addition, this new system was associated with a decrease in the overall attrition rate for musculoskeletal injuries and a cost savings to the Navy of several million dollars per year.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel*
  • Musculoskeletal System / injuries*
  • Patient Care Team*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Quality of Health Care*
  • United States