51st MDG pharmacy stops illness with the S.I.C.K program

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affiars
OSAN AIR BASE,Republic of Korea --  While long lines and even longer wait times are normal for the winter season during the holiday rush, patients at the 51st Medical Group can avoid waiting by utilizing MDG's Self Initiated Care Kit, or S.I.C.K program.

The intent of the S.I.C.K program is to allow beneficiaries to receive three over-the-counter medications per month for minor illnesses and injuries without having to make an appointment or the need to see a doctor.

"It's a benefit to the patients because they're able to get these medications without having to tie up appointments," said Tech. Sgt. Adam Garrett, 51st MDG pharmacy flight chief. "It's a time saver, because they don't have to make an appointment or spend half their day seeing the doctor. They can just come in and get their medications."

When asked when the best time to use the program Garrett said, "If you're actually feeling sick or feeling symptoms, definitely come in and use the S.I.C.K program"

The S.I.C.K program carries medications to treat minor colds, coughs, cuts and scrapes. Some of the medications include fever/pain reducers, anti-bacterial ointments, cough syrup and a wide range of allergy medications.

It's a good program, but it's not used to stockpile medications, he said

During a normal month the pharmacy's four technicians process approximately 100 S.I.C.K program prescriptions, but during peak times such as allergy season, winter months or after a major exercise prescription requests are almost double.

The S.I.C.K program briefing is held Tuesdays at the 51st MDG Garden Court at 8:30 a.m. The staff also offers unit briefings upon request if members are unable to make the weekly brief.

"When using the S.I.C.K program try not to come immediately after the briefing, but rather in the afternoon," said Staff Sgt. Brittanie Guthrie, 51st MDG pharmacy technician. "Normally it's busy after the briefing and we want to try and avoid heavy wait times."

"The pharmacy's peak times are Monday and Fridays, so any other time during the week is the best time to request medications," Guthrie said.

For more information on the S.I.C.K program or to schedule a unit briefing, call the Heath Care Integrator at 784-7427.

"It increases the pharmacy workload, but it's good for the patients and doctors because it frees up a lot of appointments," Garrett said.