Pharmacy practice in the United States Navy

The current status of pharmaceutical services in the United States Navy Medical Department is described. The mission of the Navy Medical Department is to provide comprehensive health care to the more than 2.7 million active-duty and retired Navy personnel and their dependents. A total of 144 Navy pharmacy officers, 50 civilian pharmacists employed by the Navy, and 650 Navy-trained technicians practice in 32 Naval hospitals. All Naval hospitals have unit dose drug distribution systems and complete i.v. admixture services as well as an extensive series of ambulatory-care clinics. Clinical pharmaceutical services provided in these facilities vary depending upon the size and purpose of the facility. Pharmaceutical services are supported by the TRIPHARM computer system. Navy pharmacy officers may choose to pursue full-time graduate studies or may follow career paths outside of pharmacy. Navy pharmacists currently serve in a variety of administrative positions, as instructors and curriculum directors in the two Navy technician training schools, and as commanding officers of drug screening laboratories. In times of combat, Navy pharmacists may be assigned to hospital ships or to medical facilities near the line of combat. The ability of Navy pharmacists to respond to innovations in pharmacy practice will be the key to the future success of Navy pharmacy practice. One of the major challenges facing Navy pharmacy in the next few years is the recruitment of qualified pharmacy officers.