MEDLOG Training Delivers Results in Iraq
February 15, 2011 posted by Spc. Frederick Waiters
Before I deployed to theater, my previous experience with DCAM was a training class conducted by MC4. Within four months, I went from being a novice user with many questions to be the person answering my customers' questions.
Initially, I knew how to digitally order supplies and to review the document register to track an order. The rest of the system was a mystery.
During periods of free time, I worked with DCAM to learn about the system's many capabilities. I wanted to understand what the system could do and how I could best use the functionality. I felt that it was important so that I could better support my customers. Plus, I wanted to more efficiently manage my warehouse of approximately 300 line items.
I called the MC4 support staff almost daily with questions. They were very patient and helpful. I learned how to process receipts, how to connect to my supplier and to locate back up files. Now I teach my customers how to better use the system.
Typically, medics are tasked to be the logistician for their clinic or section of the hospital. Many do not have any experience in the supply world. They're very comfortable with paper forms. Some might know how to use DCAM to place orders, but they don't understand that supplies are ordered by the case and not by individual pieces. They also don't know how to use the document register to monitor the supplies ordered.
Every day I provide some level of systems training and over-the-shoulder instruction. Currently, I conduct many refresher training sessions. I remind them of the steps required to perform a certain function. Occasionally, new people are selected as a logistician and I start from square one.
My customers have benefited from the training sessions. They call less often when they experience a problem, since they can troubleshoot the issue. They also call less frequently about the status of orders. They're able to open DCAM and see when the order left the supplier and when to expect the delivery.
Spc. Frederick Waiters, Medical Supply Specialist, Task Force 86 Brigade Medical Supply Office, Contingency Operating
Base Delta, Iraq
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