Military Medicine's Pediatric Evolution: Col (Ret) Eric M. Flake, MD, on Telehealth, Culture, and Collaboration
- wardocspodcast
- 41 minutes ago
- 4 min read
In the latest episode of WarDocs, we are taken on an insightful journey into the world of military medicine with Retired Air Force Colonel Eric M. Flake, MD. This episode explores how technology, telehealth, and cultural collaboration are revolutionizing pediatric care for military families. Dr. Flake, a specialist in developmental behavioral pediatrics, shares his unique experiences and insights, emphasizing the transformative impact of these advancements on military healthcare.
Military Medicine and Pediatric Specialization
Dr. Flake begins by discussing his journey into military medicine and his specialization in developmental behavioral pediatrics. He highlights the critical role that pediatricians play in both deployed environments and at home, especially when it comes to providing innovative care models for neurodiverse children. The importance of technology and telehealth in enhancing care delivery is underscored, as is the necessity of collaboration with civilian institutions. Dr. Flake also shares memorable cases and lessons learned throughout his career, reflecting on the potential of AI in pediatrics and the ongoing need for advocacy for military families.
Advancing Military Healthcare With Telehealth
Dr. Flake delves into the transformative role of telehealth in providing healthcare to military families. He discusses how organizations like the Henry M. Jackson Foundation and the Uniformed Services University are pioneering telehealth programs, especially in developmental assessments such as autism evaluations. The conversation touches on the growing acceptance of telehealth across generations of physicians and the unique benefits of conducting assessments in patients' home environments. Emphasizing synergy between on-base and off-base resources, this section highlights the importance of collaboration with civilian institutions to effectively support military families.
Advancing Pediatric Care Through Multicultural Collaboration
Cultural sensitivity and collaboration are key to advancing pediatric care within the military healthcare system. Dr. Flake shares strategies for fostering a culturally sensitive, multidisciplinary team and emphasizes the value of diversity and cultural awareness. Drawing from personal experiences, including memorable cases and humanitarian missions, he highlights the synergy between being a clinician, researcher, and educator. The chapter underscores the challenges and opportunities of providing high-quality services with minimal footprint, and the impact of global health initiatives and advocacy work with organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Military Child Education Coalition.
Military Medicine and Pediatric Advocacy
Dr. Flake shares his experiences with the strategic initiatives at the Henry M. Jackson Foundation. The discussion explores the foundation's approach to securing and implementing grants for clinical applications, focusing on supporting families with children facing neurodevelopmental challenges. Dr. Flake emphasizes the importance of flexibility and passion for those considering a career in military medicine, reflecting on his legacy and the enduring importance of advocacy for military children. He underscores the significance of nurturing future generations and the impact of military service on individuals and their families.
HOW TO LISTEN AND WATCH
The episode featuring Dr. Flake is available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Here are some popular links that will bring you directly to the episode:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/qctrP3AmuHA
Dr. Flake Biography
Eric Flake, M.D., is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and retired USAF colonel. He currently works for the Henry Jackson Foundation and is contracted as the clinical director for a telehealth neurodiversity clinic centered at the Uniformed Services University (USU). He created the Developmental-Behavioral Family Readiness Center for the Department of Defense (DoD). He founded the only DoD Autism Center - JBLM Center for Autism Resource, Education, and Services (CARES). He attended the military medical school (USUHS), graduating in 2001. Dr Flake is an Associate Professor at the USU and the University of Washington. He currently serves in the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and serves on the science advisory board for the Military Child Education Coalition. Dr. Flake's passion is celebrating the strengths and resiliency of neurodiverse children. He has published numerous articles and presentations regarding childhood resilience, autism, and the psychosocial effects of deployment on children.
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