Plan aids veterans looking for careers, addresses medical staff shortage

State Rep. Diana Farrington today testified before the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee in support of her plan allowing military medical personnel to work under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Under Farrington’s measure, military members who were honorably discharged and are transitioning into civilian life will be able to utilize the skills they learned during their service to obtain gainful employment.

“We are taking a stand to help expedite career placement for our military heroes upon returning home as they prepare for life after serving,” said Farrington, of Utica. “This plan will give veterans the opportunity to be employed within the health care field while they receive the education required for obtaining their medical credentials.”

In an effort to help veterans obtain valuable employment opportunities and address the health care employee shortage, the state of Virginia created the Military Medics and Corpsmen (MAAC) program in 2016. In response to the pilot program’s success, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam signed legislation making the MAAC program permanent in June 2018.

Farrington said Michigan is facing its own health care employee shortage, and her plan will be critical in helping address it.

“Michigan has an abundance of health care employment opportunities available, but is lacking the amount of licensed workforce talent,” Farrington said. “Other states have taken this step and reaped the benefits, and Michigan has the opportunity to do so as well.”

Under the proposal, licensed physicians will maintain primary responsibility for the care of the patient and specific tasks entrusted with military medical professionals must be consistent with their level of training and experience.

House Bills 5052 and 4023 remain in the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security Committee for further consideration.

Photo Information: State Rep. Diana Farrington testifies before the House Military, Veterans and Homeland Security committee in support of her plan helping retired military medics gain valuable employment upon returning home on Oct. 29.