Impact of Medication Adherence to GLP-1 pharmacotherapy in Active-Duty Populations and Its Effect on Diabetes Mellitus Type II Management in Theater: A Retrospective Study, (Ongoing research) Lead investigator
Analyzed medical records of 530 active-duty personnel to assess the impact of medication adherence quantified by days of medication supplied, days of medication covered, and A1c values as a function of time. This study is performed on
Trauma Informed Care within the Military Health System, Co-author
Identified potential barriers to care highlighted by typical communication modalities including verbal, body language, and eye contact providers use in discussing healthcare objectives with a subsect of Tricare beneficiaries (Active Duty, Veteran, prior service) who may share a higher incidence of trauma response due to Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Readjustment Disorders
Objective: To examine the communication barriers between healthcare providers and military health system beneficiaries—particularly those with a history of trauma—by analyzing provider communication styles and their impact on care delivery. This study focuses on patients with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and readjustment disorders, who may exhibit trauma responses that influence healthcare interactions.
Methods: This retrospective study reviewed medical records and patient-provider interactions from 2022 to 2023 within the Military Health System (MHS), specifically examining healthcare encounters among active-duty personnel, veterans, and prior service members. The research focused on analyzing the use of verbal communication, body language, and eye contact by providers during consultations. These modalities were evaluated for their impact on the engagement and outcomes of patients with identified trauma histories. Data included feedback from patient surveys, clinical outcomes, and provider reports on perceived barriers to communication and care.
Results: The study identified several key communication barriers that negatively impacted care for patients with trauma histories. Providers often unintentionally triggered trauma responses through poor eye contact, rigid body language, or overly direct verbal instructions, leading to reduced patient engagement and trust. Among the 600 patient records reviewed, those exhibiting trauma-related diagnoses showed a 40% higher likelihood of reporting discomfort during healthcare discussions. Improved provider training on trauma-informed communication, including sensitive verbal phrasing and non-threatening body language, was linked to better patient satisfaction and more effective healthcare outcomes.
Conclusions: Trauma-informed care practices are crucial within the MHS, particularly for patients with a high incidence of trauma-related disorders such as TBI and PTSD. The study suggests that providers’ communication styles significantly affect patient engagement and healthcare outcomes. Enhanced training for providers in trauma-informed communication could address these barriers, improving care delivery for this vulnerable population
Conducted retrospective analysis evaluating the benefit of sailors receiving (PrEP) counseling, laboratory evaluation, and treatment initiation by a pharmacist-led team on HIV prevention and military readiness. Demonstrated increased medication adherence and improved fitness for duty on shore-duty and while in theater (deployment).
Objective: To evaluate the impact of a pharmacist-driven pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) program on HIV prevention and military readiness in active duty service members. The study aims to assess adherence rates, HIV transmission outcomes, and the role of pharmacist interventions in optimizing care for service members at risk for HIV exposure.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed the medical records of active duty military personnel enrolled in a pharmacist-driven PrEP program. Data was collected on medication adherence, HIV seroconversion rates, and readiness metrics, including medical deployment status and fitness for duty. Pharmacist interventions, such as counseling and adherence support, were also examined for their effectiveness in promoting adherence and preventing HIV transmission.
Results: The study found a significant correlation between pharmacist-led PrEP management and increased medication adherence, with over 85% of participants achieving high adherence levels (≥90%). No new HIV transmissions were reported among participants adhering to the program. Additionally, military readiness, as measured by deployment status and fitness for duty, improved in service members participating in the program due to reduced health-related interruptions and fewer medical deferments.
Conclusions: A pharmacist-driven PrEP program effectively enhances HIV prevention and supports military readiness by promoting high medication adherence and minimizing health-related disruptions to duty. Pharmacists play a crucial role in providing accessible and consistent care, ensuring service members remain healthy and ready for deployment. This study highlights the value of expanding pharmacist-led programs in military healthcare settings to improve outcomes related to both health and operational readiness
©2021 Dr Jennifer Mays