On Saturday, September 10, 53 pharmacy students participated in the 5K Philadelphia 2011 Walk to END Alzheimer’s, sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. The walk at Citizen’s Bank Park was intended to increase awareness and raise funds for research for this devastating disease.
This was the second year of participation for the PCP students, organized by the student chapter of American Society of Consultant Pharmacists.
“I had no idea that so many students would be interested in the walk, and I am ecstatic that so many students came out for this community service event,” said Chapter President Kim Brown PharmD’13.”
“Student interest in geriatrics is growing on campus, demonstrated by the waiting list of students interested in geriatric electives,” said PCP Adjunct Associate Professor Laura Finn P’84, ASCP adviser to student. “With the population aging, it is an exciting time to explore opportunities for these students both in their academic years and in the professional years to come. Student ASCP provides a forum for learning about the interdisciplinary role of pharmacists in geriatrics and opportunities to participate in medication-related intergenerational activities.”
PCP’s chapter was founded in 2010 and has reached out to both the community and the University with introductory medication needs’ assessment surveys last spring at Star Harbor Senior Center and an educational version of “The Price is Right – Geriatric Style” for students on campus. Future plans include patient education on medications in the elderly and community service projects.