Mental Health Flight earns AF-level recognition Published Sept. 24, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Air Force medical officials acknowledged the 4th Medical Group Mental Health staff as one of the top five facilities for follow-up services after hospitalization for mental illness. "This is recognition for our attention and dedication to providing continuity of mental health care to our patients," said Master Sgt. James Bridwell, 4th Medical Operations Squadron mental health flight chief. Follow-up care provides continuation of treatment for a service member's mental health needs post hospitalization. The mental health team goal is to provide seamless outpatient mental health treatment. "We have been able to exceed the Air Force benchmark by committing to a strong working relationship with an entire team of people to make this happen," said Lt. Col. Lisa Bader, 4th MDOS mental health flight commander. "This (recognition) includes not only the active duty members but also the Mental Health Clinic, our civilian teammates at Wayne Memorial and our Medical Group Case Management Team. The case managers help ensure the Mental Health Clinic knows when an active duty member gets admitted and the hospital works diligently with us to ensure members know to contact the clinic upon discharge. The Mental Health Clinic is one piece in the seamless process for access to care." As a mental health professional, Bridwell encourages those who are struggling with their mental well-being to seek assistance. "Everyone needs help at some point in their life, and seeking help early to address any of life's problems, is a sign of good judgment and reliability," Bridwell said. A strong continuation of treatment for a service member's mental health needs post hospitalization provides these individuals with access to a solid support network. "That truly sums it up -- what makes this work is working hard to have a solid team committed to working together to deliver the optimum health care in the best interest of our military members," Bader said.