text: ________________________________________________________________________________Chapter 12
  MEDICAL SUPPORT
  12-77. The basic principle of combat medical support is multistage
  evacuation with minimum treatment by medical personnel at each unit level.
  They treat the lightly wounded who can return to combat and those
  casualties who would not survive further evacuation without immediate
  medical attention.
  12-78. The OPFOR divides the range of medical treatment into three
  categories. The first category of procedures includes only mandatory
  lifesaving measures. The second category includes procedures to prevent
  severe complications of wounds or injuries. The final category of treatment
  includes procedures accomplished only when there is a low casualty load and
  reduced enemy activity.
  12-79. In anticipation of an overtaxed combat medical support system,
  OPFOR doctrine emphasizes the importance of self-help and mutual aid
  among individual soldiers. This concept extends beyond the battlefield to
  casualty collection points and unit aid stations. Self-help and mutual aid
  reduces the demands made on medical personnel, particularly when there is
  a sudden and massive influx of casualties. Each soldier is required to attend
  a first-aid training session.
  MEDICAL LOGISTICS
  12-80. The medical logistics system operates on a “pull system.” Personnel in
  the field request medical materiel (including repair parts for medical
  equipment) from a medical depot where it must be picked up and delivered to
  the field. Normally, medical supplies are transported from the support zone
  to the battle zone on cargo-carrying transport vehicles, water vessels, or
  aircraft. However, ground ambulances returning to the battle zone may assist
  in transporting medical supplies. A medical equipment maintenance unit at
  the medical depot provides all medical equipment maintenance.
  Level Available Care
  Platoon Platoon medic (corpsman) provides basic first aid.
  Company Company medic (paramedic) provides advanced first aid, pain relief, intravenous fluids,
  and treatment of most common illnesses.
  Battalion Medical assistant (physician’s assistant) provides limited medical intervention, minor sur-
  gery, and treatment of most common illnesses; limited inpatient capability.
  Brigade, BTG, Medical officers (physicians) provide trauma stabilization and minor surgical intervention.
  and Division
  DTG or Higher A field hospital provides major surgery and extended care.
  OSC or Theater Central Military Hospital and major civilian hospitals provide definitive care in fixed facili-
  Support Zone ties.
  Figure 12-4. Levels of Medical Care