The Department of Defense defines the Continuum of Care as Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration. The Air Force has divided those stages into seven phases that align better with an Airman’s journey through the Continuum of Care.
These seven phases also make it easier for the Airman and their caregiver to understand where they are in the process and helps the Care Management Team with trigger points to know when to introduce new members required for each phase of care.
The seven phases that are used anticipate the Airman and family and/or designated caregivers needs. Family members and caregivers play an important role in a seriously or severely ill or injured Airman’s recovery and transition. They provide emotional support and stability and assist the Airman in navigating available transition benefits and programs. The Air Force defined phases of the Continuum of Care are listed below.