Hey folks, I've been extensively researching post-high school career paths and came across the Public Health Service. Is this considered a branch of the military? It's not something that gets talked about as much, so would be great to clarify!
The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS), which I think you're referring to, is indeed part of the eight U.S. uniformed services, but it's not traditionally considered a branch of the military like the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps. Although its members wear uniforms, are assigned ranks, and can be deployed in times of national emergency or crisis, the USPHS primarily focuses on public health and medical services.
Members of the USPHS work in various government departments and agencies like the FDA, NIH, and the Bureau of Prisons, where their roles involve enforcing quarantine laws, conducting biomedical research, and providing health care services, among other public health-related tasks. They often assist during times of national emergencies, pandemics, or natural disasters by providing vital healthcare services to communities in need.
As part of the uniformed services, they get many of the same benefits as their military counterparts, such as retirement plans and healthcare. However, they are distinct from the military branches in that their primary mission revolves around public health instead of defense.
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