David Clark Ewing

My condolences to Dave’s family and friends. We met in 1973 at the Phoenix Indian Hospital (now, Phoenix Indian Medical Center). We participated in a study funded by a federal grant that investigated the role of pharmacists in providing primary patient care. Seven people were originally involved and trained in this program. It eventually went IHS wide, and a total of 62 IHS pharmacists were trained! During the original study in 1973, Dave and I rotated between Phoenix and Sacaton (every other day) for an additional 6 months of on-the-job practical training after the original 3 months of didactic and clinical training in Phoenix. Dave was, therefore, a pioneer, at the cutting edge in justification and application of the concept and practice of having pharmacists provide primary patient care. This is now standard in an increasing number of settings, including IHS and the VA system. It is also incorporated in numerous private-sector settings. Dave always demonstrated exemplary compassion, integrity and dedication in this activity! His family has a great deal to be proud of for his role in this revolutionary practice!