In the world of military healthcare, pharmacists play a crucial role often overlooked by the public eye. On this World Pharmacists’ Day, we shine a spotlight on Major Miles Bertumen, an alumnus whose career exemplifies the intersection of pharmaceutical expertise and military service.
Rising Through the Ranks
Major Bertumen’s journey began with the Health Professions Scholarship Program, through which he commissioned as a second lieutenant in 2017. After earning his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Roseman University of Health Sciences in 2018, he was promoted to captain. His dedication and excellence in service led to a further promotion to Major in 2023, marking a rapid ascent through the ranks.
Current Role and Responsibilities
Today, Major Bertumen serves as the Chief of Inpatient Pharmacy for the 374th Medical Group at Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, Japan. In this critical position, he oversees pharmacy services for a diverse population of 11,500 beneficiaries in the Tokyo metropolitan area, including active duty military members, retirees, and their dependents.
Under his leadership, an eight-member team manages an impressive workload:
- 45,000 inpatient pharmacy orders annually
- Support for a 19-clinic, 15-bed hospital
- 47,000 outpatient prescriptions per year
Major Bertumen’s responsibilities extend beyond patient care. He also manages an annual operating budget of $2.7 million, ensuring efficient use of resources while maintaining the highest standards of pharmaceutical care.
Previous Service
Before his current posting in Japan, Major Bertumen served as the Pharmacy Element Chief for the 61st Medical Squadron at Los Angeles Air Force Base in California. In this role, he supported Space Systems Command and the US Space Force, demonstrating the wide-ranging impact of military pharmacists across various branches and specialties.
Impact and Significance
Major Bertumen’s career highlights the vital role of pharmacists in military healthcare. His work ensures that service members and their families receive safe, effective, and reliable pharmacy services, whether in a bustling metropolis like Tokyo or supporting cutting-edge operations like those of the Space Force.
As we celebrate World Pharmacists’ Day, Major Miles Bertumen stands as a shining example of how pharmacists contribute to national security and global health. His journey from scholarship recipient to leading pharmacy operations in one of the world’s largest cities showcases the diverse and impactful career paths available in military pharmacy.
Major Bertumen’s story is not just one of personal achievement, but a testament to the critical role pharmacists play in maintaining the health and readiness of our military forces around the globe. As we honor pharmacists worldwide, let us remember the unique challenges and contributions of those serving in uniform, ensuring the well-being of those who defend our nation.