Training Triumph: Navy Medicine and Readiness Command Rota Boosts Preparedness and Retention

The Navy Medicine and Readiness Training Command (NMRTC) Rota is advancing the frontier of military medicine through a commitment to professional development and recruitment. This overseas command collaborates with the Naval Hospital Rota to offer comprehensive training and shadowing opportunities, bolstering retention and readiness to align with strategic objectives.

Naval Hospital Rota’s designation as a forward-deployed shore command means Sailors often transition to sea rotations or operational units. Preparing them for healthcare delivery in non-hospital settings, such as part of an Expeditionary Medicine (EEXMED) team, remains a priority. Capt. William Scouten, Commanding Officer of NMRTC, emphasized that training fortifies competence and fosters high-performing teams poised for rapid response.

One example is the Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program (MECP), which partners candidates with the hospital’s Emergency Department and Multiservice Wards, providing mentorship from experienced nurses. Lt. Serena Yesenofski, Rota’s MECP Coordinator, highlighted the program’s unique opportunity for junior Sailors to earn nursing degrees and commissions, maximizing their service potential.

Further support is extended through the Medical Service Corps Interservice Procurement Program (MSC-IPP), offering educational pathways to commissioning. “Mentoring candidates who may join us as future officers is a point of pride,” shared Cmdr. Aaron Eckard, Director for Administration. NMRTC Rota also facilitates rotations for Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Nurse Corps Midshipmen, readying them for future responsibilities.

Significant advancements in the last year include training 28 junior Sailors through Preventive Medicine Technicians and launching a Hearing Conservation Technician course, both crucial for mission readiness. The command’s commitment to ongoing professional development persists through Thursday afternoon training sessions, focusing on updating clinical practices and honing wartime critical skills.

Positioned strategically on the Iberian Peninsula, NMRTC Rota is pivotal in supporting medical missions across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, ensuring preparedness for any global contingency. With over 44,000 trained professionals, Navy Medicine remains dedicated to providing essential expeditionary medical support.