Colonel Mary Anne Kiel Retires from Air Force, Leaving Legacy of Lifestyle and Performance Medicine Advancements
In a heartfelt ceremony at the Military Women’s Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery on May 8, 2024, Colonel Mary Anne Kiel bid farewell to her two-decade-long career in the Air Force. Known for her pioneering work in lifestyle and performance medicine, Kiel leaves behind a legacy of significant impacts on primary care standards and policies within the Military Health System.
Throughout her distinguished career, Kiel held key leadership positions that shaped the landscape of military healthcare. As the chair of the Lifestyle and Performance Medicine Working Group and chief of Air Force Medical Home at the Air Force Medical Agency in Falls Church, Virginia, she spearheaded efforts to enhance the quality of care for 3.5 million patients across 455 medical facilities. Her expertise in pediatrics and lifestyle and performance medicine allowed her to champion evidence-based practices that optimized the health and readiness of Airmen and Guardians.
During her retirement ceremony, Brigadier General James Parry, the acting director of Medical Operations at the Office of the Air Force Surgeon General, commended Kiel for her outstanding contributions to the Military Health System. He highlighted her influence not only within the U.S. military but also on an international scale, with countries like Lithuania looking to incorporate her innovative approaches to healthcare.
Reflecting on her unexpected journey in the military, Kiel expressed gratitude for the camaraderie and sense of purpose that kept her motivated throughout her service. Her transition from pediatrician to advocate for lifestyle and performance medicine was driven by a desire to promote holistic care and preventive health practices among service members and their families.
One of Kiel’s most significant achievements was leading the U.S. Air Force Lifestyle and Performance Medicine Working Group, a collaborative effort that brought together healthcare professionals from various branches of the military and government agencies. Under her guidance, the group expanded its reach and impact, earning recognition from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine for its contributions to healthcare innovation.
As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, Kiel remains committed to advocating for lifestyle medicine in both military and civilian communities. Her vision for a cultural shift towards prioritizing self-care and resilience among healthcare professionals reflects her unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of both patients and providers.
In her retirement speech, Kiel emphasized the importance of addressing burnout and promoting healthy lifestyle practices as essential components of effective medical care. Her passion for instilling a sense of balance and well-being in the healthcare workforce serves as a testament to her enduring legacy in the field of lifestyle and performance medicine.
As Colonel Mary Anne Kiel bids farewell to her military career, her impact on healthcare standards and practices will continue to resonate within the Military Health System and beyond. Her commitment to advancing holistic care and promoting resilience among service members stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to improving the health and well-being of those she served.