PAN announces a new pharmacy practice program with Florida A&M University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences to advance health equity
As part of its continued commitment to advancing health equity, the PAN Foundation announced that it will be welcoming Doctor of Pharmacy (P4) learners from Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health (CoPPS,IPH) — a renowned historically black college and university (HBCU)—as part of FAMU’s Advanced Pharmacy Practice Elective (APPE). FAMU is ranked as the #1 Public HBCU in the country for the sixth consecutive year and ranked #81 by U.S News & World National Universities Report. This APPE provides an in-depth exploration of the programs offered by the PAN Foundation, with a specialized focus on the role of pharmacists in clinical affairs, health equity, and patient advocacy.
We’re thrilled to welcome our new students and to be able to support a new generation of pharmacists on their journey towards understanding and advocating for their patients.”
James J. Ridley, PharmD, Director of Clinical Affairs at PAN Foundation
Throughout the course, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of PAN’s programs, strategies to address health disparities, medical research and writing, and regulatory compliance. The curriculum emphasizes the intersection of PAN Foundation programs and health equity, highlighting the crucial role of pharmacists in advocating for equitable access to medications across diverse patient populations.
Students will have the opportunity to learn about the landscape of charitable patient assistance programs while building upon their professional development, including:
- Identifying strategies to address health disparities;
- Understanding how to integrate clinical knowledge of disease states and medications;
- Learning the pharmacist’s role in advocating for equitable access to medications;
- Understanding barriers to care for diverse patients;
- Conducting research within ethical boundaries; and
- Developing diverse and inclusive partnerships and community engagement.
“We’re thrilled to welcome our new students and to be able to support a new generation of pharmacists on their journey towards understanding and advocating for their patients,” said James J. Ridley, PharmD, PAN Director of Clinical Affairs. “We also know that pharmacists play a critical role in connecting patients who come to the pharmacy counter with financial assistance resources so they can start and stay on their treatments, whether through charitable assistance programs or other offerings. This partnership will help to increase awareness of such programs for the next generation of pharmacists. Serving as a pharmacy preceptor is essential in guiding future pharmacists by offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and critical insights into patient care, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of healthcare and provide optimal support to patients with chronic or life-threatening conditions, such as those served by the PAN Foundation.”
Learn more about PAN’s ongoing commitment to health equity.
About the PAN Foundation
As a leading charitable foundation and healthcare advocacy organization, the PAN Foundation is dedicated to accelerating access to treatment for those who need it most and empowering patients on their healthcare journeys. We provide critical financial assistance for treatment costs, advocate for policy solutions that expand access to care, and deliver education on complex topics—all driven by our belief that everyone deserves access to affordable, equitable healthcare.
Since 2004, our financial assistance programs have helped more than 1.2 million people to start or stay on life-changing treatment. In addition, we’ve achieved major policy victories that increase access to care, mobilized patient advocates to call for change, and educated people nationwide on critical healthcare-related topics. We’re committed to working towards a future where equitable health outcomes are a reality for all.
About Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Founded October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university in Tallahassee, Florida. What distinguishes FAMU from other universities is its legacy of providing access to high-quality, affordable education with programs and services that guide students toward successfully achieving their dreams. FAMU is part of the State University System of Florida and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.