U.S. medical commands must adapt to changing times and help lead the way in shaping the operational environment before, during, and after major operations. Medical diplomacy can be enhanced by a more forward policy that makes medical initiatives part of a larger package of soft power capabilities including education, commerce, and culture. Military medical personnel should serve as part of overall teams as health attachés in critical overseas missions. They should coordinate with medical foreign military sales arrangements in the interest of wider efforts to advance peace and stability, build professional and personal relationships with medical and nonmedical host nation leaders, and stand as advocates for U.S. health care in all of its phases including patient care, education, and research. |