What is the first and most important principle of preventive medicine measures?

• A. Commanders have sole responsibility for PMM
• B. The individual service member is responsible for putting PMM into practice
• C. Medical staff must provide treatment first
• D. Environmental controls are enough

Answer: (B)

Preventive medicine works best when the individual service member takes responsibility for putting PMM into practice. Leadership and medical staff provide the policies, vaccines, and protocols, but the actual prevention happens through daily actions by the person—staying up to date on immunizations, practicing good hygiene, using protective equipment as required, following sanitation and safety procedures, and promptly reporting exposures or symptoms. Environmental controls and leadership support are important, but they can’t substitute for personal adherence.