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Pharmaceutical services in the United States Air Force
1Biomedical Sciences Corps for Pharmacy, Andrews Air Force Base, MD 20762-6600, USA.
Summary
The United States Air Force pharmacy is modernizing services with new programs and staffing to enhance patient care. Pharmacists and technicians are adapting to evolving roles and technologies to ensure efficient pharmaceutical services.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Services
- Military Health Systems
- Pharmacy Administration
Background:
- Current status of pharmaceutical services within the United States Air Force (USAF) medical service.
- Adaptation of USAF pharmacy to new programs, staffing standards, inventory methods, and evolving roles for pharmacists and technicians.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the ongoing transformations in USAF pharmaceutical services.
- To highlight the strategies employed to maintain service levels amidst changes like facility closures and staffing adjustments.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive analysis of current USAF pharmacy operations.
- Examination of new initiatives such as TRICARE, mail-out prescription programs, and community pharmacy networks.
- Review of staffing models, including the roles of over 1300 pharmacists and technicians.
Main Results:
- Implementation of TRICARE has improved access to care.
- Facility closures are being offset by mail-out and community pharmacy programs.
- Variability in pharmacy size and prescription volume exists, with a trend towards outpatient-focused operations.
Conclusions:
- USAF pharmacy is undergoing significant changes to ensure service continuity.
- Pharmacists must maximize efficiencies and leverage technology to meet future demands.
- Expanded roles for technicians and improved patient information systems are anticipated.