The Gateway

Since 2008, deployed commanders have asked for theater-wide visibility and data mining capability of the prescriptions prescribed by providers. Commanders had visibility of the medications prescribed to an individual, but they couldn't easily generate reports on specific medications and the quantities prescribed throughout theater to identify patient risk and combat pharmacy abuse.

In March, I deployed to Afghanistan for a site-assisted visit with the 44th Medical Command. While in theater, I worked with members of MC4's technical support team to uncover a method for theater-wide surveillance of prescriptions using the Business Objects reporting tool within Medical Situational Awareness in the Theater (MSAT).

With dedicated manpower and access to the SIPRNet, we uncovered the solution within three hours. Within the first hour, we indentified all of the required data elements and successfully generated the first report. We spent the remaining time creating processes and troubleshooting our findings.

Commanders can now generate theater-wide reports for medications by following the steps in the tip titled Query Prescribed Medications in MSAT. For a more in-depth tutorial with screen shots, check out Creating Ad Hoc Reports Using MSAT Business Objects.

As the MC4 Medical Logistics team traveled throughout theater working with DCAM users, one of the most common questions we're asked is "what's happening with my order?" When asked, we provide over-the-shoulder training to create an order using the correct Advice and Signal codes. This ensures that users get exactly what they want and that the order is delivered to the right location.

We also show users how to interpret the Status codes. This allows them to reorder cancelled items, and identify when a substitute will be provided or when a requested item is no longer available. These steps give users control over the supply system and allow them to make better-informed decisions.

To help users better understand the codes, MC4 developed a desk-side guide with the most commonly used DCAM codes in theater.

In May, MC4 participated in the 2011 Combat Support Hospital (CSH) Commanders and Associated Medical Units Conference in Reno, Nevada. Hosted annually by the Forces Command (FORSCOM) G-4 in conjunction with U.S. Army Reserve Command, the event provides a great forum to discuss hot button topics with CSH leadership. I thought I’d share some of the highlights.

First, MC4's MEDLOG shop set up a display featuring DCAM on the MC4 system. The exhibit gave deploying units a glimpse of the automated medical supply system used downrange. Then we briefed attendees on the high-level MC4 initiatives and support structure in place for deploying units. Overall, the revised MC4 training strategy of garrison use, exercise support, and warrior-focused training was well-received, as was the news that MC4 training is now formally available at CRC. We’ll provide more details on the efforts at CRC soon.

Another key topic discussed was whether or not we should issue MC4 training sets to Army Reserve CSHs. The feedback was mixed. CSHs preparing for deployment expressed an interest, while others remained hesitant because of constrained training schedules. In May 2010, an MC4 equipping policy released by Army MEDCOM enabled MC4 to begin providing active duty CSHs with training sets. The same option is available for Reserve CSHs if their schedules permit. Commanders are encouraged to request equipment and schedule training through our MC4 region support offices.

Thanks to FORSCOM G-4 for extending us an invitation to participate in the conference. We’re looking forward to presenting again next year!