An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Partners in Care course provides free OTC medications to JBPHH families

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Terri Paden
  • 15th Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii --  Free over-the-counter medications are available at the Hickam pharmacy for TriCare Prime beneficiaries enrolled at the 15th Medical Group who attend the Partners in Care class.

Partners in Care is a one hour self-care class that provides attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to self-treat minor injuries and illnesses, such as colds and fevers, at home.

Future classes occur every second and fourth Wednesday of each month and are open to all TriCare beneficiaries.

Laura Pladson, 15th MDG utilization manager and medical management, said Partners in Care has been around for many years, but was reborn at Hickam in 2000 after the medical staff became aware of patients' increased frustration with being diagnosed to home care.

"We could tell the patients were frustrated that they were being prescribed over-the-counter medications and were feeling like they had made an appointment to get medications they could have gotten themselves so we wanted to give them the tools to be able to do just that," she said. "We want to improve the quality of self-care provided at home by giving attendees skills and resources."

Though the course is intended to keep patients from having to make unnecessary trips to the clinic, Pladson said it is no way intended to completely replace professional medical care.

"Our goal here is not to tell you not to go to the doctor, but to make your home care the best it can be," she said. "We want to help you become an active partner in your healthcare. For minor illnesses and injuries, yes, this course is a suitable replacement but if you are at all unsure, then certainly make an appointment."

In addition to the Partners in Care course which covers methods to self-treat the entire family at home, the 15th MDG also offers a pediatric version of the course which focuses on caring for children under 12 and expecting parents.

The class offers a more in-depth look at the common illnesses typically seen in a pediatrics clinic such as ear infections, fevers and colds.

"I would recommend anyone who has children or are expecting a child to take this course," said Capt. Nicole Ward, 15th MDG executive officer and nurse. "This course is especially good for expecting parents because it could help prepare them for their first year of being a parent. The first year is usually when we see parents in the clinic the most, and often times it's for a minor injury or illness they might be able to treat at home. I wish I'd had this class when I was a new mom and I'm a nurse."

Ward said the class also offers new parents a place to network and learn about the other resources available to them in the community.

"This course saves time, money and is a more overall effective way to use the Air Forces resources," said Ward. "It frees up the PCM's to handle more complicated cases which cuts back the wait times ... it's a win-win for everybody."

To reserve a seat in the class, contact the 15th MDG appointment line at 448-6000.