Leading Transformative Change in Military Medicine and Special Operations: LTC(R) Stephen M. DeLellis, PA-C

     Join us as we explore the extraordinary journey of Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel PA Stephen M. DeLellis, PA-C, who transitioned from an enlisted soldier to a distinguished physician assistant in military medicine. Starting with his decision to join the Army for college money in the early 1980s, Steve recounts his time in the 1st Ranger Battalion and how influential mentors and pivotal moments shaped his career path. His narrative offers valuable insights into the evolution of military medicine and the significant lessons learned from his experiences, including the Battle of Mogadishu and other key military operations.

    Listen in as Steve shares the challenges and triumphs he faced while transitioning from a senior enlisted role to a commissioned officer within the medical community. This episode highlights the evolution of trauma care, particularly advancements in assessing and treating traumatic brain injuries, sparked by the intense combat experiences in Mogadishu. Steve discusses the development of the Assessing and Tracking Tactical Forces (ATAC) program and the collaborative efforts with sports teams and academic institutions to enhance neurocognitive assessment tools tailored for military personnel.

    The conversation further explores the impactful work at the Fort Liberty Research Institute and the ongoing partnership between the Geneva Foundation and the Department of Defense. Steve's experiences underscore the importance of effective medical leadership in special operations, emphasizing collaborative decision-making and the evolving role of physician assistants. Whether you're interested in military medicine, leadership, or the innovative approaches to healthcare delivery in challenging environments, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the world of military medicine and the dedicated professionals who serve within it.

 

Chapters:

(00:04) Military Medicine Journey

(08:13) Transitioning to Army Physician Assistant

(17:20) Military Transition to Commissioned Officer

(30:41) Advancements in Military Traumatic Brain Injuries

(36:58) Revolutionizing Traumatic Brain Injury Assessments

(41:37) Innovations in Army Medical Research

(56:57) Effective Leadership Attributes in Special Operations

(01:04:34) Military Medicine Service and Sacrifice

 

Chapter Summaries:

(00:04) Military Medicine Journey

Retired Army LTC Stephen M DeLellis, PA-C shares his journey from enlisted soldier to physician assistant in military medicine, highlighting the influence of mentors, Ranger Battalion experiences, and working with special operations units.

(08:13) Transitioning to Army Physician Assistant

Soldier's journey through special operations, including Panama, Somalia, Haiti, Balkans, and transition to Army Physician Assistant.

(17:20) Military Transition to Commissioned Officer

Transitioning from 18 Delta course to PA school, realizing gaps in medical knowledge, and challenges of becoming a commissioned officer in the military.

(30:41) Advancements in Military Traumatic Brain Injuries

JSOC teamwork, advancements in military medicine, TBI program development, and Assessment and Tracking Tactical Forces Initiative.

(36:58) Revolutionizing Traumatic Brain Injury Assessments

Evolution of TBI assessment tools in military contexts, including ATAC program and research at Fort Bragg.

(41:37) Innovations in Army Medical Research

Partnership between Geneva Foundation and DoD for warfighter-focused medical research, including ATAC Forces Initiative and Evolution Program.

(56:57) Effective Leadership Attributes in Special Operations

Effective medical leadership in special operations involves collaborative decision-making and understanding the unique challenges faced by various medical roles, including the evolving role of physician assistants.

(01:04:34) Military Medicine Service and Sacrifice

Special operations medics rely on telemedicine and virtual reality for complex battlefield care, with emphasis on mentorshi