In a recent statement, Dr. Mike Pattison emphasized the importance of vision readiness, stating that it is an integral element of force health protection and operational readiness. He highlighted the significance of assessing vision and optical readiness as part of the Periodic Health Assessment to ensure that warfighters are prepared to deploy at a moment's notice.
Dr. Felix Barker, the Director of Rehabilitation and Reintegration at the Defense Department's Vision Center of Excellence, underlined the crucial role that vision and hearing play in guiding human behavior. He explained how these senses allow individuals to remotely sense opportunities and threats, enhancing their ability to interact with the environment at a safe distance.
Discussing the relationship between hearing and vision, Dr. Amy Boudin-George, a clinical audiologist at the DOD's Hearing Center of Excellence, pointed out that these senses work together to help individuals listen to others and interpret visual cues for effective communication. She highlighted the importance of both senses in monitoring the environment for potential threats or opportunities.
Speaking on the significance of maintaining optimal vision and hearing for military operations, Theresa Schulz, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, stressed that all members of a unit need their senses for mission success. She emphasized that decreased sensory abilities could lead to reduced survivability and lethality among warfighters.
To mitigate the risks associated with impaired vision and hearing, Dr. Barker emphasized the essential role of protection measures provided by approved DOD sources. He highlighted the importance of using hearing and vision protection in various settings, including the field, garrison, or even at home during potentially hazardous activities.
In conclusion, Dr. Pattison urged service members not to compromise on their vision or hearing health. He advised them to seek routine eye care from professionals and emphasized the importance of wearing properly fitted hearing protection to optimize sensory capabilities in military environments.
The original article, focusing on the critical role of vision and hearing in service member readiness, was featured on Military Health Systems.
