Who is the final approving authority for individuals to be approved for the Secretarial Designee (SECDES) program?

The final approving authority for individuals to be approved for the Secretarial Designee (SECDES) program is the MTF Commander. This designation reflects the command structure within military healthcare facilities where the MTF (Medical Treatment Facility) Commander has the authority to make final decisions regarding personnel and program approvals. The MTF Commander oversees all operations within the facility, ensuring that the appropriate personnel are selected in alignment with both regulatory requirements and the specific needs of the healthcare environment.

The role of the MTF Commander encompasses a broad understanding of healthcare operations, policy compliance, and the authority to implement necessary changes to maintain high standards of care and management in military health services. This level of oversight is critical for ensuring that individuals selected for programs like SECDES meet the required competencies and organizational goals.