What are the responsibilities of a 68W military job?

I'm considering enlisting and interested in the 68W military occupation. Can anyone share what the daily responsibilities and training involve for this role? I'd love to hear from someone with experience as a 68W.

The 68W military occupation, also known as a Health Care Specialist or combat medic, is an important role in the U.S. Army. Your duties would primarily revolve around providing emergency medical treatment at the point of injury on the battlefield and during missions.

While in garrison, or when not deployed, your jobs could include working in a clinical setting like a military hospital or clinic. You could be involved in basic care, taking vital signs, maintaining patient records, giving medications, and assisting with minor surgeries. You might also be involved in emergency medical treatment in response to combat or natural disaster situations.

As for your training, it's pretty extensive. First, you would go through Basic Combat Training, like all new Army recruits. Following this, you would attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which includes both a classroom and fieldwork. This is where you would gain in-depth medical training and even get the opportunity to earn a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) certification.

The training for this role is rigorous, aimed at preparing you to provide medical care in high-stress situations. It pushes you to function effectively in a combat environment, so that you can offer critical care and life-saving interventions right at the scene of injury.

Keep in mind that embracing the life of a 68W means adopting unpredictability. Duties can greatly vary depending on your deployment, from dealing with cuts and fractures to more intense battlefield injuries. This career can be simultaneously rewarding, challenging, and demanding. It's an indispensable role, directly responsible for saving lives in crisis situations. It can also be a platform for further career development in healthcare within the military or in the civilian world.