Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center: Your Guide to World-Class Military Healthcare
Located on the historic grounds of Fort Belvoir, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., the Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center (ATAMMC) stands as a beacon of excellence in military healthcare. Formerly known as Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, this state-of-the-art medical facility serves active-duty service members, retirees, veterans, and their families in the National Capital Region. Renamed in 2023 to honor Dr. Alexander Thomas Augusta, the first African American physician in the U.S. Army and a pioneering figure in medicine, the center embodies a legacy of compassion, innovation, and service. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ATAMMC, from its history and services to its unique role in the Military Health System.
Who Was Dr. Alexander T. Augusta?
Before diving into the medical center’s offerings, let’s take a moment to honor the man behind the name. Dr. Alexander Thomas Augusta was a trailblazer in every sense. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1825, he faced immense racial barriers but pursued his passion for medicine with unwavering determination. After being denied entry to U.S. medical schools, he earned his medical degree from the University of Toronto. During the Civil War, Augusta became the first African American physician to serve in the U.S. Army, appointed as a surgeon for the 7th U.S. Colored Troops. He also played a pivotal role in desegregating train cars in Washington, D.C., and later became the first African American professor of medicine at Howard University.
Augusta’s legacy of breaking barriers and serving others is reflected in the medical center’s mission to provide inclusive, high-quality care. Naming the hospital after him in May 2023 was a tribute to his courage and contributions to both medicine and civil rights.
A Modern Hub for Military Healthcare
Opened in August 2011, ATAMMC is a $1.03 billion, 1.3 million-square-foot facility that replaced the older DeWitt Army Community Hospital. It’s one of the largest military hospitals in Northern Virginia and operates as a joint-service medical facility, staffed by personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive care for the diverse needs of the military community.
ATAMMC is part of the National Capital Region Medical Directorate (NCR MD), working alongside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to deliver top-tier medical services. Whether you’re seeking routine checkups, emergency care, or specialized treatment, ATAMMC is equipped to handle it all with a patient-centered focus.
Key Features of ATAMMC
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24/7 Emergency Department: The hospital operates a Level III trauma center, providing immediate care for urgent medical needs. For cases requiring advanced treatment, patients are transferred to nearby civilian facilities.
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Inpatient and Outpatient Services: From primary care to complex surgeries, ATAMMC offers a full spectrum of medical services.
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Satellite Clinics: In addition to the main facility at Fort Belvoir, ATAMMC operates the DiLorenzo TRICARE Health Clinic at the Pentagon and health centers in Fairfax and Dumfries, Virginia.
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Specialized Programs: The Intrepid Spirit Center at ATAMMC focuses on treating mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and other combat-related conditions, offering holistic care for service members.
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Emergency Preparedness: As part of federal planning for the National Capital Region, ATAMMC is equipped to support continuity of government during crises, ensuring readiness for any scenario.
Services Offered at ATAMMC
ATAMMC is designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of its patients. Here’s a closer look at some of the key services available:
1. Primary Care and Family Medicine
ATAMMC provides comprehensive primary care services, including routine checkups, vaccinations, and chronic disease management. The Family Medicine Residents at the center are actively involved in patient care, ensuring personalized attention. Events like “Thanks A Resident Week” highlight the dedication of these professionals.
2. Emergency and Trauma Care
The 24-hour emergency department is a cornerstone of ATAMMC’s services. As a Level III trauma center, it handles a wide range of emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. The hospital’s Emergency Response Team is trained to act swiftly, as demonstrated in recent life-saving incidents.
3. Behavioral Health Support
Mental health is a priority at ATAMMC. The hospital’s “Drop-In” clinic initiative, launched in April 2025, provides staff and patients with a safe space for individual and group discussions. These clinics focus on reducing burnout and promoting well-being, offering resources and techniques for managing stress.
4. Women’s Health
ATAMMC offers specialized women’s health services, including maternity care, gynecological screenings, and support for conditions like military sexual trauma. The Women’s Health Clinic collaborates with specialists to provide holistic care tailored to women veterans and service members.
5. Specialty Care
With 287 physicians covering 74 specialties, ATAMMC is a hub for advanced medical treatment. Services include cardiology, orthopedics, neurology, and pain management. The Capitol Spine & Pain Centers within the facility offer non-invasive treatments for chronic pain, helping patients avoid surgery.
6. Pharmacy and Laboratory Services
The hospital’s pharmacy makes it easy to refill prescriptions online, by phone, or by mail. The ATAMMC mobile app provides quick access to pharmacy and lab services, ensuring convenience for patients.
7. Rehabilitation and Intrepid Spirit Center
The Intrepid Spirit Center, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2023, specializes in treating mild traumatic brain injuries and other combat-related conditions. Its holistic approach addresses physical, mental, and emotional health, making it a vital resource for service members.
A Commitment to Quality and Safety
ATAMMC is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and care. In November 2024, the hospital earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, recognizing its efforts to protect patients from infections, injuries, and medical errors. The hospital actively works to prevent infections like MRSA and C. diff by enforcing strict hygiene protocols and isolating affected patients.
The hospital also emphasizes patient education, ensuring that discharged patients understand their medications and recovery plans. This focus on communication reduces the likelihood of readmissions and promotes better outcomes.
Community Engagement and Innovation
ATAMMC is more than a hospital—it’s a community partner. The medical center hosts events like National Wear Red Day to raise awareness about heart health and collaborates with organizations like the American Red Cross to support the military community. In July 2023, Michael Jordan, Vice President for Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces, visited ATAMMC to discuss ongoing partnerships.
The hospital is also a leader in professional development. The Front-Line Supervisor Development Course, launched in March 2025, trains mid-level managers to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Additionally, initiatives like the Basic Life Support (BLS) recertification program ensure that healthcare providers are prepared for emergencies.
Navigating ATAMMC: Practical Information
For patients and visitors, ATAMMC offers tools and resources to make visits seamless:
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Location: 9300 DeWitt Loop, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060
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Hours: The main facility operates 24/7, with specific clinic hours varying (e.g., VA clinic hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday).
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Mobile App: The ATAMMC app includes a searchable directory, parking garage diagrams, and links to patient resources. It’s a must-have for navigating the large facility.
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Contact: Visit belvoirhospital.tricare.mil for contact details and appointment scheduling.
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Accessibility: Wheelchairs are available, and transportation services are offered through partnerships with Disabled American Veterans.
A Legacy of Excellence
The renaming of Fort Belvoir Community Hospital to Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center was more than a symbolic gesture—it was a commitment to uphold the values of courage, diversity, and service that Dr. Augusta embodied. As U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Telita Crosland, Director of the Defense Health Agency, said during the renaming ceremony in May 2023, “It is also a reminder that we owe our nation’s military might to the diversity of our ranks, ensuring every member of our Joint Force is treated with dignity and respect.”
ATAMMC continues to innovate and adapt to the needs of its patients. From launching new clinics to earning top safety grades, the medical center is a trusted resource for the military community. Whether you’re a service member seeking specialized care or a family member needing routine checkups, ATAMMC is here to serve with compassion and expertise.
Why ATAMMC Stands Out
What sets ATAMMC apart is its blend of cutting-edge technology, joint-service collaboration, and a deep commitment to patient care. The hospital’s evidence-based design prioritizes patient and family-centered care, creating a healing environment. Its role in the Military Health System ensures seamless coordination with other facilities like Walter Reed, while its satellite clinics make healthcare accessible across the region.
For veterans, ATAMMC’s integration with VA services, such as the Fort Belvoir VA Clinic, provides a one-stop shop for primary care, mental health, and specialty services. The hospital’s focus on holistic care, exemplified by programs like the Intrepid Spirit Center, ensures that every aspect of a patient’s well-being is addressed.
Final Thoughts
The Alexander T. Augusta Military Medical Center is more than a hospital—it’s a lifeline for the military community in the National Capital Region. With its rich history, comprehensive services, and dedication to innovation, ATAMMC is a shining example of what military healthcare can achieve. Whether you’re visiting for a routine appointment or seeking specialized treatment, you can trust ATAMMC to deliver world-class care with a personal touch.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the official website at belvoirhospital.tricare.mil or download the ATAMMC mobile app. Here’s to your health and the legacy of Dr. Alexander T. Augusta, whose pioneering spirit continues to inspire.
