Just as there is a system of communicating down through the chain of command by manuals and directives, there is also a need for input up through the chain of command. This information is required for the many departments to determine logistic support, administrative policy, and overall management of the Navy.
To gather this input, a system of reporting is required. Each unit in the Navy is directed to submit certain information at specific periods to higher authority in the Navy.
Since in some situations the Armed Forces and other organizations in the DOD have a common purpose of reporting, the reports and forms have been standardized. These forms are put forth to make exchange of information throughout the federal government easier. They are identified by the DD (Department of Defense) or SF (Standard Form). An example of the former is DD-1289DOD Prescription-used by all federal agencies that write prescriptions; an example of the latter is the SF-88Report of Medical Examinationused by all federal agencies that require physical examinations on their personnel.
Of primary interest to hospital corpsmen are the following types of reports and forms:
NAVPERS FORMSThese reports and forms are to be used for personnel reporting. For instance, the NAVPERS 1070/600 series deal exclusively with the Navy service record of an individual.
NAVMED FORMSThese forms belong to the Medical Department. A list of these forms and their descriptions and purposes can be found in chapter 23 of the MANMED.
NAVSUP FORMSThese forms are devised for the naval supply system and will be used for ordering supplies or equipment within the Medical Department.
NAVCOMPT FORMSThese forms are devised for the financial system and will be used for reporting events that affect a persons pay.
Reports and forms are also categorized by frequency of submission, e.g., weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually, or as needed (situationally).
Chapter 23 of the MANMED deals exclusively with those forms and reports relative to the Medical Department. It lists them according to category, gives information on submission, and specifies the number of copies required.
Section 506 of the Federal Records Act requires an active, continuing program for economical and efficient management of records. The program provides for effective controls over the creation, maintenance, and use of records in conducting business; the retirement of noncurrent records; and the destruction of nonessential records. Chapter 6 of SECNAVINST P5212.5 series, Disposal of Navy and Marine Corps Records, contains all the regulations on the disposition of records relative to the Medical Department.
In summary, it is to your advantage to have a good knowledge of the many manuals listed in this chapter. The ability to find information or to substantiate and verify an administrative procedure is the mark of an efficient, senior hospital corpsman. A good knowledge of the Navy Directives Issuance System is essential for effective medical administration and keeps you abreast of new developments.
Neat, accurate, and timely submission of required reports and forms will earn you an outstanding reputation.
1. SECNAVINST 5215.1C, Navy Directive Issuance System
2. NAVEDTRA 10254-D, Personnelman 3 & 2 RTM