New recovery care coordinator considers his duties 'an honor' Published Oct. 9, 2009 By Steve Pivnick 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler AFB has a new member who plays a significant role in aiding the nation's wounded warriors. Daniel Ransom assumed duties as 81st Medical Group recovery care coordinator in August. Mr. Ransom, who retired July 30 as a master sergeant in the 335th Training Squadron as a military training leader, is located in room 4A205 at Keesler Medical Center. His duties include identifying gaps in non-medical services, intervening as necessary to expedite outcomes and assisting with coordinating resources to develop and improve outcomes to enhance delivery of non-medical services. As the Air Force Recovery Care Coordinator, "I work closely with the personnel community and the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program to ensure delivery of assistance and to resolve conflicts," he explained. "I also facilitate and efficient, effective and smooth rehabilitation and transition back to active duty or civilian life as a veteran by coordinating with the appropriate personnel - military service coordinators, VA liaisons and other agencies." He also assists in coordinating local and state resources, including referral to appropriate governmental and non-governmental agencies as appropriate, in the locale where the Airman and family will reside. "I assist Airmen, their families and extended family members to navigate through the continuum of care. This involves initial assessment, comprehensive assessment, linkage to family support programs and ongoing follow-up. In addition, I collaborate with community partners on and off the installation to form a network of helping resources and maintain current on information relating to the impact of trauma and post-traumatic stress reactions and their affect on the member, family and caregivers." Included among his duties, Mr. Ransom ensures development, implementation and oversight of the Comprehensive Recovery Plan as well as oversees, coordinates and monitors the medical and non-medical services across the continuum of care as documented in the Comprehensive Recovery Plan. Finally, he ensures "Airmen and their families have access to all medical and non-medical care management services including, but not limited to, medical care, rehabilitation, education, employment-related programs and disability benefits." Mr. Ransom works closely with Donna Anderson, a registered nurse who is the 81st MDG wounded, ill or injured (active-duty "Wounded Warrior") case manager to ensure all facets of a recovering service member's care is addressed. Commenting on his role, Mr. Ransom said "My job is challenging, demanding and, most importantly, rewarding. It is truly an honor and privilege to provide any non-clinical assistance I can to our service men and women whom have been wounded, injured or diagnosed with a severe illness. It is also rewarding to come to work every day and work side-by-side with a truly compassionate and dedicated individual such as Donna Anderson." Anyone needing his services can contact Mr. Ransom at 376-3076 or 228-229-6669.