Minot Medical Group
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. — The Air Force Surgeon General, Lt. Gen. John DeGoes, conducted a comprehensive immersion tour of the Minot Medical Group on June 24, 2026, to assess medical readiness, mentor future leaders, and recognize exceptional patient safety practices.
During the visit, Lt. Gen. DeGoes received a primary mission briefing from key medical leadership, detailing the group’s operational capabilities in support of the installation’s strategic deterrent mission. Lt. Gen. DeGoes also prioritized direct mentorship, hosting a breakfast with Airmen and NCOs, followed by targeted leadership development sessions with Company Grade Officers (CGOs) and Senior NCOs.
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of the “Trusted Care Hero” recognition to Airman First Class (A1C) Chastine, a medical technician whose clinical vigilance recently prevented a potentially severe medical escalation.
While conducting a routine intake at the Women’s Health walk-in contraception clinic, A1C Chastine demonstrated Preoccupation with Failure—a core High Reliability Organization (HRO) principle—by flagging an abnormal respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute rather than dismissing it as a temporary anomaly.
Showing a strong Reluctance to Simplify, Chastine validated the finding and immediately reviewed the patient’s electronic health record, uncovering a persistent trend of elevated respiratory rates across recent encounters. Exercising Deference to Expertise, she promptly notified the Women’s Health provider and facilitated a primary care appointment, which ultimately led to a critical Cardiology referral for higher-level care.
“A1C Chastine’s vigilance epitomized Patient Centeredness and reinforced a Culture of Safety where all personnel, regardless of rank, are empowered to speak up and escalate concerns,” said medical group leadership.
The Surgeon General’s visit underscored the unwavering commitment of the Air Force Medical Service to develop robust leaders and foster a proactive, safety-first culture across all military treatment facilities.
