Call to action: Integrating student pharmacists, faculty, and pharmacy practitioners into emergency preparedness and response

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the pharmacist experience in emergency preparedness and response and to provide information and resources to help practitioners engage in this public health effort in their local communities.

Setting: Spokane, WA, health care community, 1998 through 2009.

Practice description: The College of Pharmacy at Washington State University, Spokane, has developed partnerships with local public health and community providers to address emergency preparedness and response needs. Working through the Metropolitan Medical Response System has created opportunities to participate in emergency preparedness planning and exercises. Collaboration with local agencies has provided opportunities for faculty and student pharmacists to respond to meet emergency needs in the community.

Practice innovation: Emergency preparedness and response education, training, and service implemented in partnership with public health and community providers prepared student pharmacists and experienced pharmacy practitioners to respond to emergency needs in our community.

Main outcome measures: Not applicable.

Results: Not applicable.

Conclusion: Colleges and schools of pharmacy can take a lead in preparing student pharmacists for this role by incorporating emergency preparedness training into curricula. Community pharmacists can develop their knowledge and skills in emergency preparedness through individualized continuing education plans and integration into community teams through volunteerism. Partnerships developed with local public health and emergency response agencies provide opportunities for pharmacists to become integral members of planning and response teams. Training exercises provide opportunities to test preparedness plans and provide professional education and experience. Actual emergency response activities demonstrate the value of the pharmacist as an important member of the emergency response team.