PCOM School of Pharmacy Students Visit Georgia State Capitol

It looked like a sea of white coats as more than 400 students from Georgia Campus – Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (GA-PCOM), Mercer University, South University and the University of Georgia joined forces for Pharmacy Day at the Dome, the Georgia Pharmacy Association’s (GPhA) annual rally for students pharmacists. This year’s advocacy focus is House Bill 900 which proposes changes to Georgia’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) to help curtail prescription drug abuse in the state.

The intent of the proposed changes to the bill is to shore up funding for the program and to allow healthcare professionals to more effectively communicate with one another. This message carries with it the GPhA’s passion for the well-being of Georgia patients.

Student pharmacists were armed with talking points and encouragement from Georgia representatives Bruce Broadrick, Buddy Harden, and Ron Stephens, all pharmacists. Broadrick spoke to the gathering saying, “As a pharmacist, you’re trusted and respected. Be involved with your community.” Harden encouraged the students to “Keep in contact with your legislators throughout your career…It means a lot to your profession and your future.” “Don’t wait on us to decide on your future…Your future depends on you having a voice,” said Stephens.

The student pharmacists had their photo taken on the steps of the Georgia State Capitol with Governor Nathan Deal. Then, some watched the session from the gallery, while others met with their representatives to press for PDMP reform. Based on Tuesday’s gathering, it appears that the voice for pharmacy in Georgia is unified and effective.