14th MDG Pharmacy serves Team BLAZE in new ways

  • Published
  • By Capt. Jason Bingham
  • 14th Medical Group Pharmacy Officer
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Over the last year, the 14th Medical Group has undergone many changes, and the pharmacy is no different.

From decreasing patient wait times to an average of 17 minutes, to implementing new patient safety measures, the Columbus Air Force Base Pharmacy is diligently working to take care of the active duty, dependents, and beneficiaries utilizing their services.

The pharmacy has also started a Non-formulary Medication Program for medications not currently on the base formulary. This allows patients to receive medications not on the local formulary through the base pharmacy without being charged a co-pay. All medications being considered for filling through this program are screened against criteria set by Tricare. If a patient meets the criteria for the medication, the pharmacy will order and it will be available for patient pick-up within three to five business days.

If a medication does not meet the criteria, pharmacy staff will contact the original prescribing provider to see if a covered medication can be substituted. When medications cannot be substituted, patients may take to network pharmacies or enroll in the Tricare Mail-Order pharmacy services, but co-pays for these medications average between $20-40 per medication. Patients can call the pharmacy to ask about specific medication criteria, and see if the medication can be transferred to the base pharmacy.

In addition to the electronic prescription system, the pharmacy has begun to accept electronic prescriptions from off-base providers. This process allows for providers to send the prescription through a secure computer program, and deliver it to the pharmacy within a matter of minutes. Once the pharmacy receives the prescription, they begin processing.

By processing the prescription before patients arrive, this gives staff a chance to resolve any issues or questions regarding the prescription without the patient having to wait. Most questions or concerns can be resolved by the time a patient arrives. Prescriptions sent through the electronic prescription system are typically ready for pick up within one business day of receiving the prescription.

Currently, the pharmacy has three credentialed providers providing a host of counseling services. All patients are welcome and encouraged to ask a pharmacy member regarding any questions about their medications.

During the renovation of the 14th Medical Group, a Pharmacy Consultation room was designed directly behind the pharmacy for in-depth medication counseling sessions. This allows patients a private and quiet environment to discuss their medical questions with the pharmacist on duty.

The pharmacy also has a Cough and Cold Clinic to help those with common cold symptoms for less than seven days to receive the medications needed to help manage their symptoms. The Tobacco Cessation program works with patients to quit using all types of tobacco products by providing behavioral and medication therapy options.

If you are interested in the ways Columbus AFB Pharmacy can assist with your medical care, please give a staff member a call at 434-2168.