In honor of Veteran’s Day on November 11, AARC reached out to military member Victoria V. Bot, MPH, RRT for a question-and-answer session on her unique role in the military and how she’s making an impact every day in healthcare! Victoria will also be participating in this year’s Flag Folding Ceremony at Congress. Be sure to catch this event live streamed on our Facebook page on November 22 at 1:05 EST. AARC thanks Victoria and all our military members for their service!
Why did you decide to get involved as military personnel in the Public Health Service?
Joining the U.S. Public Health Service as military personnel felt like the perfect alignment of my passion for health and my commitment to service. I have been a Respiratory Therapist for more than 10 years, and before my commission, I worked at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. It was an honor to be part of the healthcare team providing care to our active-duty military and their dependents. Those experiences deepened my desire to contribute to public health in a broader way, blending clinical expertise with the mission-oriented focus of military service.
What does your daily work look like?
My primary role involves conducting regulatory investigations and inspections of biologic firms and manufacturers to ensure compliance with the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as well as the Public Health Service Act. I prepare concise, factual reports of inspectional findings, supported by the collection of relevant documents and evidence. Some days are spent onsite for inspections, while others are focused on detailed analysis and report writing to help improve public health standards.
What is the most fulfilling part of your work?
Knowing that my work directly impacts public health and safety is incredibly rewarding. Every investigation and inspection contribute to a larger mission of protecting the public and improving health systems. It’s fulfilling to see the positive outcomes of my efforts, even if they’re not immediately visible.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
Navigating regulatory complexities and ensuring compliance across diverse settings can be challenging. Each facility and scenario require its own approach, and sometimes, the standards we work to enforce are demanding. The mental focus and attention to detail required can be exhausting, but it’s all part of the commitment to high standards.
What would you like people to know about the Military Public Health Service?
The military public health service offers a unique blend of service and discipline, impacting public health in meaningful ways. It’s a commitment not only to health but to the values of resilience, leadership, and teamwork that military service instills. I’d like people to know it’s both a challenging and rewarding field, perfect for those who are driven to serve.
