While two Navy corpsmen may be the
same rank, their ability to see patients may be different
depending on their training. They are either an Independent
Duty Corpsmen (IDC - green) or a General Duty Corpsmen (GDC
- blue).
U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl.
Jessica Etheridge Video edited by USA Patriotism!
Independent
Duty Corpsman
(IDC - Green) An Independent Duty Corpsman can see patients without a physician
being present and serves with Marines , including combat. An
IDC
also allow a physician to deal with patients with more serious medical issues
whether in a field or military hospital. The IDC's advanced
education / training involves attending the Independent Duty
Corpsman School for 12 months that goes beyond the basics of
medicine into anatomy, physiology and how medicines affect
the body.
General
Duty Corpsmen (GDC - Blue) A General Duty Corpsman basically does what a physician's assistant does in the civilian world, just for the active duty personnel
at military hospitals and clinics. When a
GDC corpsman reaches the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class,
they have the opportunity to apply for Independent Duty
Corpsman School.
The
Corpsman's Oath I dedicate my heart, mind, and
strength to the work before me. I shall do all within my
power to show in myself an example of all that is honorable
and good throughout my naval career.
Corpsman - Green and Blue Sides
