PRT Zabul works with teammates to provide medical assistance to Afghans Published Dec. 26, 2008 By 1st Lt. Amber Balken Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team public affairs QALAT, Afghanistan -- Hundreds of people received an early EID gift of medical care and humanitarian assistance when the members of Zabul PRT, the Afghan National Army and other Coalition Forces participated in recent village medical operation. Winter in Zabul province is a very critical time for the population. It is a struggle to provide food and warmth and to take care of the basic needs when the weather turns cold. The team identified the need for this assistance and moved quickly to provide care and support for the men, women and children of Zabul. Nearly 500 patients were seen and of those, Zabul PRT physician assistant Air Force 1st Lt. Alex Lowe provided medical assistance to over 100 women. The majority of who were seen for upper respiratory, dermatologic, and gastrointestinal complaints, she said. "The local population was very excited to see us and grateful for our presence," she added. The providers worked with a local doctor, who also saw and treated patients. It was important for the local population to see an Afghan doctor there as well, said Lieutenant Lowe. "This shows the public that we are here to help them improve their quality of life, not just to solve short-term problems." The patients were also provided with food and clothing from the PRT. "We distributed beans, rice, sugar, and supplies for the winter" said Army Staff Sgt. Adam Bromley, Zabul PRT civil affairs team sergeant. "These rations will hopefully provide some relief from the cold winter and sustain their families, even if only for a short time." "Today's mission was a total team effort," said Sergeant Bromley. "The success today was at the resolve of the ANA, the local doctors our coalition partners and the PRT."