Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base, Ala. -- Precision and reliability are crucial in completing the mission at the 117th Air Refueling Wing. Those adjectives also perfectly describe the requirements for Biomedical Equipment Technicians (BMETs) in the 117th Medical Group (MDG).
"We ensure all medical equipment meets OSHA standards," explains Staff Sgt. William Ellis, a seasoned BMET with a background in medical logistics and emergency operations. Ellis also works as a BMET in a full-time capacity for a civilian health care company. That job requires he service hospitals across north Alabama.
A BMET must apply their skills to a wide array of equipment.
"From patient monitors to infusion pumps, we inspect and maintain all medical equipment,” said Ellis.
A BMET’s main job is to provide quick repairs and minimize downtime to medical missions. BMETs describe their job as rewarding and a different approach to providing medical care.
“It’s interesting to me to try and figure out how to fix a broken Computed Tomography machine,” said Ellis. “And it’s your job to go in there and fix it and get the doctors going again to treat the patient.”
Prior to joining the 117th MDG he served in the 183rd Air Evacuation Squadron where he was responsible for medical equipment and patient movement for 6 years.
"Whether at home base or deployed, we're trained to handle any situation," adds Ellis.
Keeping the troops ready to deploy is only half of the mission for the 117th MDG. The unit is also ready at a moment’s notice to deploy and set up an En Route Patient Staging System (ERPSS). There are only 16 medical groups across the entire Air Force (RegAF, Reserves, and National Guard) capable of providing this service.
“This mission requires we are capable of treating injured patients and get them well enough for travel to a permanent treatment facility,” says Capt. Rachel Sharp, Medical Administrative Officer, 117th MDG.
Think of ERPSS as a mobile hospital that can be quickly assembled in a deployed environment. The requirements mean the 35-member team must build a minimum of 50 hospital beds and eight tents. This team is made up of medics, nurses, flight surgeons, and other key medical personnel. BMETs are a key aspect to ERPSS because they are responsible for all medical device equipment inside the temporary operation.
For these technicians, it's not just about fixing machines but supporting the medical staff effectively.
"I contribute to patient care indirectly," says Master Sgt. Jaron Franks, BMET, 117th Medical Group.
"Our relationship with clinicians is built on trust. When we keep their equipment running smoothly, they can rely on us."
Franks also works as a BMET and helped Ellis get into the 117th MDG after they met on a temporary duty assignment.
Currently, the team is focused on modernizing equipment across the Medical Group and upgrading several machines in service through the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Offices (DRMO) process. This involves administrative work and precise communication with the National Guard Bureau.
"Technology changes, but we have a mindset to always learn something new and that won’t change," Ellis asserts.
Their commitment to excellence is evident in their work ethic and mission dedication.
"Repairing medical machinery is rewarding," said Ellis. "Knowing our work directly supports patient care is our motivation."