Navy Capabilities and Mobilization Plan (NCMP) Annex Q - Health Services Support: resource and end strength implications

Abstract

Medical end strength and medical readiness policies have been impacted by post Cold War operations and downsizing of the Department of Defense (DoD). This study reviews Navy medicine's reengineering efforts intended to address these policies, focusing on the revision of the medical annex of the Navy Capabilities and Mobilization Plan (NCMP), used in support of DoD operational planning. It details the revision process, explaining the factors influencing the process, including the changes in medical doctrine, and the organizations involved. Data were obtained through interviews with key Navy planning and medical personnel and a review of DoD and Navy orders, publications and directives. The update of the medical annex has diminished the medical material supply support needed for the Casualty Receiving and Treatment Ships (CRTS), reducing weight and cargo space requirements, and producing some small budget savings as well. The update also provides a substantial reduction in the bed space capacity and medical personnel augment package supporting the new capabilities