RAF Lakenheath hospital named best in Air Force for 2009

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Megan Lyon
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  Despite stiff competitions and the limitations of a 100-word submission form, RAF Lakenheath hospital was named the Air Force's 2009 Hospital of the Year during a ceremony at the Military Health Symposium in Washington D.C. Jan. 28.

The hospital placed first out of all other competing Air Force medical treatment facilities from across the globe, first winning at United States Air Forces in Europe level, before winning at Air Force level.

"I could not be more proud of the men and women of the 48th Medical Group," said Col. Kenneth McDonnell, 48th MDG commander. "Our Airmen are doing a phenomenal job, not only here in the United Kingdom, but also in numerous deployed locations in overseas contingency operations throughout the world."

During the past year, the 48th MDG has received numerous awards and recognition including 14 Air Force Medical Service annual awards, a near perfect score on a recent College of American Pathologist inspection, a 98 percent patient satisfaction rate and a best in USAFE rating.

"We are honored and humbled to receive the Air Force Hospital of the Year Award," said Col. David Hocking, 48 MDG deputy commander. "To be singled out as the "best of the best" is a reflection of the commitment, enthusiasm, and tremendous work ethic of our great medical group team and their dedication to our patients."

In addition to being awarded numerous accolades, the 48th MDG pioneered the use of new technology and was the first overseas base to incorporate the automated medication dispenser. The hospital is also leading the way in disease prevention and was named number one in USAFE for asthma care and breast and colon cancer screening.

The 48th MDG successfully accomplished their mission despite a 40 percent increase in deployments to 15 different countries, totaling 7,300 days deployed for medical Airmen.

"Everyday Liberty Medics selflessly serve and ensure our mission of "Expeditionary medics ensuring fit fighters and healthy families ... 24/7, worldwide," said Colonel McDonnell.