FORT HOOD, Texas  –   Musculoskeletal injuries and joint pain can sideline Soldiers and disrupt daily life for military families, making access to quality orthopedic care essential. At Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, patient feedback shows the Orthopedic Clinic consistently delivers the kind of care that helps patients recover, regain mobility, and return to what matters most.

Patient feedback collected using the Joint Outpatient Experience Survey (JOES) and Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) system frequently highlights the Orthopedic Clinic’s communication, compassion, and teamwork.

Many of those comments focus on clear communication, compassionate care, and a clinic team that works together to support Soldiers, family members, and retirees.

For Alex Morales, an orthopedic physician assistant who has practiced at CRDAMC for more than two decades, that type of feedback reflects a shared commitment across the clinic.

“It’s a great day when you are recognized for the work you do on a consistent basis,” Morales said. “I didn’t choose medicine for the accolades, but instead to be a selfless servant. Putting others before myself.”

Morales began his career as a medic before becoming a physician assistant and has spent the past 21 years practicing orthopedics at CRDAMC.

“As a former service member, I know the struggles many military personnel and their families go through,” Morales said. “I try my best to make their encounters with me as pleasant, informative, and beneficial as possible.”

One patient echoed that experience in their feedback.

“I like going to this facility,” the patient wrote. “I am comfortable with the care I receive.”

Morales said listening closely to patients is one of the most important skills providers can develop.

“As a student preceptor, I teach students to work on focused listening,” Morales said. “Too many providers get consumed with extensive documentation and sacrifice personal interaction with the patient.”

He said he makes it a point to ensure patients feel heard and understand their care before leaving the clinic.

“I repeat things back that I hear from the patients and before we finish, I always ask if they have any questions I have not answered,” Morales said.

Patient feedback reflects that approach.

“I have nothing negative to say as my visits have all been great and I have been treated respectfully and with care,” another patient wrote.

Morales said positive patient experiences are also shaped by the entire orthopedic clinic team.

“Our front desk staff always set the tone for the encounter,” Morales said. “Our Orthopedic Technicians get to really know my patients and make them feel genuinely welcome.”

Caring for Soldiers and their families also brings unique challenges, he said.

“I think Soldiers are the most resilient type of patient,” Morales said. “I often worry that some wait too long before coming to see me because of mission requirements.”

Ensuring patients feel supported and confident in their care remains the clinic’s goal.

“Our warriors, dependents, and retirees deserve the best we have to offer,” Morales said.