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Pharmaceutical services in the United States Army
R F Williams1, E L Moran, S D Bottaro
1U.S. Army Medical Command, MCHO-CL-R, Sam Houston, TX 78234-6010, USA.
Summary
United States Army pharmacy services are adapting to personnel reductions by leveraging programs like TRICARE for cost-effective care. Army pharmacists are integrated into multidisciplinary teams and prepared for combat conditions.
Area of Science:
- Military Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Healthcare Administration
Background:
- The US Army Medical Department (AMEDD) provides pharmaceutical services through fixed facilities and field hospitals.
- Despite personnel and facility reductions, the demand for services from eligible beneficiaries remains high.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the current status of pharmaceutical services within the US Army.
- To highlight adaptations and future needs of Army pharmacy.
Main Methods:
- The abstract describes the structure and operations of Army pharmaceutical services.
- It mentions the integration of pharmacists into patient care and field exercises.
- It also notes the establishment of a Pharmacoeconomic Center (PEC).
Main Results:
- The AMEDD employs 157 commissioned pharmacy officers and 399 civilian pharmacists.
- Cost-effective measures like the TRICARE program are in place to manage high demand.
- Army hospitals feature high-volume outpatient pharmacies, and pharmacists have direct patient care roles.
Conclusions:
- Army pharmacy operations are adapting to a smaller force while maintaining service levels.
- Pharmacists are crucial in multidisciplinary teams and combat readiness.
- Continuous demonstration of value is essential for Army pharmacists.