In the aeromedical evacuation (AE) system, the originating physician's responsibility for a patient ends when

• A. The patient is reported via the Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) Regulating and Command & Control Evacuation System (TRAC2ES)
• B. The Patient Movement Requirements Center (PMRC) assigns a cite number to the regulating request
• C. Physician is notified by PMRC of the destination military treatment facility (MTF)
• D. The patient is under the direct care of the accepting physician at the destination MTF

Answer: (D)

In aeromedical evacuation, the point where clinical responsibility passes from the originating physician to the receiving team is when the patient comes under the direct care of the accepting physician at the destination military treatment facility. Until that handoff occurs, the originating physician is responsible for the patient’s initial stabilization and preparation for transport, and for coordinating the move. But once the destination MTF’s physician take over, they assume responsibility for ongoing medical management, decisions, and disposition. Administrative steps like notifying TRAC2ES, assigning a cite number, or informing about the destination are essential for the transfer process, yet they do not themselves transfer clinical responsibility. The holding truth is that the accepting physician at the destination becomes responsible for the patient’s care once the patient is under their direct oversight.