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Pharmaceutical services in the United States Public Health Service
F G Paavola1, K R Dermanoski, R E Pittman
1Division of Commissioned Personnel, Program Support Center, PHS, Rockville, MD, USA.
Summary
Pharmacists in the United States Public Health Service (PHS) provide essential pharmaceutical services across diverse settings, including federal agencies and programs. Their roles span drug development, research, patient care for underserved populations, and leadership within health agencies.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pharmaceutical Services
- Health Administration
Background:
- The United States Public Health Service (PHS) has a long history of addressing national health needs.
- Pharmacists are integral members of the PHS, serving across its eight operating divisions.
- PHS pharmacists contribute to various federal agencies and programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the current status and diverse roles of pharmaceutical services within the PHS.
- To highlight the broad spectrum of settings and patient populations served by PHS pharmacists.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive overview of pharmacist assignments and responsibilities within the PHS.
- Identification of key federal agencies and programs where PHS pharmacists are employed.
Main Results:
- PHS pharmacists are deployed in numerous federal entities, including the Indian Health Service, National Institutes of Health, and Food and Drug Administration.
- Their functions encompass drug approval processes, clinical research, patient care for diverse and underserved populations, and health program management.
- Pharmacists play critical leadership and management roles in agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Health Care Financing Administration.
Conclusions:
- Pharmaceutical services within the PHS are comprehensive and multifaceted.
- PHS pharmacists are vital to public health initiatives, research, and the delivery of care to a wide range of individuals, particularly underserved communities.