GMO's are the civilian counterpart to the general practitioner (GP). They have completed internship and are licensed. They are primary care physicians for operational units. When their unit deploys the GMO deploys too. GMO's make more money then interns or residents because they receive the ASP (Additional Special Pay) annual bonus. Please visit the Pay page for more information about medical officer bonuses.

GMO's provide primary care to active duty service members and sometimes dependents. The GMO acts as a gatekeeper for higher levels of care. They are responsible for maintaining the health and readiness of their unit to include assuring immunizations and routine exams are up to date. They have an important leadership role because they advise their command on medical issues and sometimes act as medical department head.

There are subspecialist GMO's such as Flight Surgeons who act as primary care providers for pilots. Similiarly, a Dive Medical Officer provides medical care for submarine personnel. GMO's also deploy with Marine units as battalion surgeons.