87th MDG launches self-care program Published Dec. 6, 2013 By Capt. Anthony Carbonella 87th Dental Squadron JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- What if you or someone in your family had symptoms of a minor illness such as diarrhea, itchy watery eyes, nasal congestion, cough, headache, allergies, fever, sinus congestion or sore throat? If you are like many service members, you would pick up the phone and call the 87th Medical Group to schedule an appointment to see your medical provider. However, many of these symptoms can be treated quickly and just as effectively at home using self-care and over-the-counter medications. The 87th MDG has implemented the Self-Initiated Care Kit program or SICK. The SICK program is a patient-centered initiative designed to empower members to recognize the signs and symptoms of illness and initiate treatment with over-the-counter medications. The SICK program enables active duty members to access a variety of over-the-counter medications without being seen by a provider. This saves the member and the Air Force time and money. According to Maj. Angela Widder, 87th Medical Operations Squadron Family Health Clinic medical director, this program will reduce work and training time lost by military members waiting to receive medical care, empower members to be responsible for their personal health and reduce cost by decreasing unnecessary medical visits. The SICK program is currently available only to active duty military members enrolled at the 87 MDG Family Health Clinic. Members who wish to participate must attend a 30 minute briefing held during the Newcomers Orientation and twice weekly at the 87th MDG clinic. Upon completion of the briefing, members will receive a self-care book and SICK program prescription card. This card will grant the member access to the pharmacy for a limited quantity of self-care medications. If you would like additional information about this program or wish to schedule an individual appointment please call 1-866-DRS-APPT. To schedule briefing for your unit or squadron during Commander's Calls, please email Maj. Melinda Williamson at melinda.williamson@us.af.mil. For more information on self-care measures, please visit a medical self help website.