Military

            The Department of Defense announced today that the deputy secretary of defense has chartered the Military Health System (MHS) Office of Transformation. 

            The office, directed by Rear Adm. John Mateczun will provide policy guidance and direction for units responsible for implementing base realignment and closure actions, medical readiness review initiatives, and local authorities working group recommendations. 

            “This new office will support a progressive agenda for change in the Military Health System,” said Dr. William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs.  “I look forward to the positive impact this important office will have on the future success of the MHS.”

            The MHS recently implemented a new finance system, a new pharmacy formulary and other new business practices to improve efficiency and effectiveness throughout the entire organization. 

            The transformation office will accelerate development of capabilities at the local command level and will help remove barriers and regulatory controls that inhibit flexible management of human resources, procurement and facilities.

            Mateczun currently serves as the deputy surgeon general of the U.S. Navy.