text: Preface
  Due to the nature of the medical profession which is highly regulated throughout both the civilian and military
  communities, Army Medicine doctrine is heavily influenced by—
  * United States and international law (including respective U.S. and allied-nation health regulating
  agencies).
  * Policy guidance in the form of Army Regulations and Department of Defense (DOD) policy
  promulgated in the form of DOD Directives (DODD) and DOD Instructions (DODI) and other
  documents.
  * Medical standards established by civilian organizations (such as The Joint Commission).
  * Technical guidance from both military and civilian organizations charged with medical/scientific
  oversight responsibilities.
  Throughout this publication, as appropriate, reference is made to the major policy guidance impacting each
  specific topic. These references should not be considered as the only policy guidance available. When issues
  arise that require consideration of policy guidance, the issue should be thoroughly researched and, as
  appropriate, coordinated with the supporting staff judge advocate or governmental/nongovernmental agency
  involved.
  The proponent of FM 4-02 is the United States Army Medical Center of Excellence. The preparing agency
  is the Doctrine Literature Division, United States Army Medical Center of Excellence. Send comments and
  recommendations on Department of Army (DA) Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and
  Blank Forms) to Commander, United States Army Medical Center of Excellence, ATTN: MCCS-FD (FM
  4-02), 2377 Greeley Road, Suite D, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-7731; by e-mail to
  usarmy.jbsa.medical-coe.mbx.ameddcs-medical-doctrine@mail.mil or submit an electronic DA Form 2028.