MAC pays McConnell back

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tajsean Wright
  • 22nd Medical Support Squadron
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  You are in a car accident and the other driver is responsible. You feel fine at the time but then soreness, aches and pains set in. You decide it is better to be safe than sorry and set an appointment to get examined.

Your provider prescribes you pain relievers, orders X-rays, schedules a follow up and refers you to physical therapy.

The 22nd Medical Group provided all these services because of a liable third party, the other driver. Can the 22nd MDG be reimbursed through the Medical Affirmative Claims program? The answer is possibly.

The MAC program identifies and recovers the cost of medical and dental care provided for injuries or diseases caused under circumstances due to a wrongful act, damage, or injury where compensation is covered by a liable third party.

The Federal Medical Care Recovery Act, allows the Air Force to recover costs for medical treatment from liable third parties and their insurers. Funds collected are returned to the 22nd MDG, that are used to ensure quality care for our members.

Most patients have not heard of or realize they can be involved in the MAC program. It applies to all Active Duty, retirees, family members of both active and retired and anyone seen at 22nd MDG.

It is important for patients to notify their medical providers and technicians about any disease or injuries sustained due to a liable third party so the 22nd MDG can gather the necessary information. The medical technician works with the 22nd MDG's resource management office to file claims with the Staff Judge Advocate. The Staff Judge Advocate determines if claims can be legally sought from a liable third party.

What many people do not realize is the number of visits related to the injury or disease can also be collected. This includes prescriptions for medications related to the injury or disease. A few examples of injuries and diseases include, but are not limited to, food poisoning, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and injuries at home or at a business and occupational illness and injury.

In a time of tight budgets the 22nd MDG is seeking to increase the amount rewarded via MAC through patient education and awareness. The MAC program benefits patients by paying for the provided care as well as expanding the quality of care through the funds collected from liable third parties.

MAC funds have paid for waiting room furniture, waiting room TVs, expanded parking lots, children's play area, pediatric exam tables, medical equipment, medical supplies, prescriptions and medical contract personnel. All funds collected from this program return to your local clinic.

If you have any questions or concerns about MAC, please feel free to contact Senior Airman Tajsean Wright at 759-3455.