36th MDG pharmacy alleviates illness with new S.I.C.K. Program Published Feb. 26, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Arielle Vasquez 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- The 36th Medical Group has implemented a new healthcare program, the Self-Initiated Care Kit that will allow members of Team Andersen to save time during their trip to the clinc. The S.I.C.K. program is in place for patients to receive medications for minor illnesses without having to make an appointment to see a doctor. "The S.I.C.K. program is similar to other bases' programs," said Capt. Kathryn Oja, 36th MDG pharmacist. "The goal of this program is to help alleviate a shortage in appointments by offering cough and cold medications to patients." The S.I.C.K. program carries about 15 medications to treat minor illnesses such as the cough and cold. Instead of making an appointment and waiting to see a doctor, one can simply show their S.I.C.K. card and speak to the pharmacist to receive up to three over-the-counter medications per month. In order to get into the program you have to attend a briefing about self-care, and then receive your S.I.C.K. card, Oja said. "Now I can just stop at the pharmacy on the way to work and pick up medicine for my cold," said Senior Airman Samantha Powell, a patient at the 36th MDG. "It saved me a lot of time because I didn't have to stand in line." The S.I.C.K. program is limited to certain patients, Oja said. Pilots, pediatrics, pregnant women and those on special status do not qualify for the program as they need to be seen by their providers for any issue. The program briefings are held Mondays at the 36th MDG at 4 p.m., as well as Wednesdays at the Health and Wellness Center at 11 a.m. The staff also offers briefings to units and during commander's calls upon request. "We're reaching out to anyone who qualifies for the program," Oja said. "We're trying to reach out to patients to give them access to information and medications without having to wait for providers." For more information on the S.I.C.K. program or to schedule a briefing, call 366-4099.