Spangdahlem extending medical care to Bitburg Annex Published March 26, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Gene Taylor Detachment 9, Air Force News Agency SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany (AFNEWS) -- When the Bitburg Annex Hospital closes July 1, the 52nd Fighter Wing will have extended-care clinics using local German hospitals, to care for the medical needs of more than 19,000 servicemembers, civilians and their families. "In all reality, for most of our patients, they will see virtually no difference," said Colonel Jay Neubauer, 52nd Medical Group commander. "We can provide 90 percent of their daily needs as far as medical care goes." The remaining 10 percent that require specialty care will be referred to one of three nearby German hospitals. German hospitals "compare really well," to the service that our own military hospital provides, said Brigitte Bell, a benefit counseling and assistance coordinator with the 52nd FW. Ms. Bell has been referring military patients to the local German healthcare system for more than 15 years. "They have all the specialties we need. And as far as the standard of care is concerned, it's the same as in the states," she said. In the end, whether your care is provided by a military doctor, or by a German one, the Air force is working hard to make sure every Airman or family member has access to the best healthcare possible. "Whether the care is given here at the 52nd Medical Group, or downtown," Colonel Neubauer said. "Its seamless high quality (health) care that meets their needs." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page