Pharmacy practice in the United States Army

Area of Science:

• Military Health
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Health Services Administration

Background:

• The U.S. Army Medical Department (AMEDD) mission is to maintain soldier health in all operational environments.
• Pharmaceutical services are integral to AMEDD's healthcare delivery system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the current status and scope of pharmaceutical services within the U.S. Army Medical Department.
• To outline the roles of pharmacy officers and technicians in military healthcare.
• To identify future directions for Army pharmacy practice.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive overview of pharmaceutical service operations.
• Analysis of personnel distribution and roles (officers, technicians, civilian pharmacists).
• Summary of services offered in military hospitals and specialized laboratories.

Main Results:

• 225 commissioned pharmacy officers are on active duty, with diverse assignments globally.
• 879 pharmacy technicians and 319 civilian pharmacists support Army pharmacy operations.
• Services include inpatient, ambulatory, nuclear pharmacy, oncology, investigational drugs, and allergen extract dispensing.
• Pharmacy officers are involved in training, education, and deployment with field units.

Conclusions:

• Army hospital pharmacies provide a wide range of essential services.
• Future practice will emphasize clinical pharmaceutical services, advanced communication, and quality improvement initiatives.
• The AMEDD pharmacy corps plays a critical role in supporting military readiness and health.