Pharmacy Solutions Walgreens Celebrates One Year of Deans Advisory Council Advancement

Walgreens Celebrates One Year of Deans Advisory Council, Advancing Pharmacy Solutions

Walgreens is celebrating a significant milestone as it reflects on the achievements made in the past year since the inception of the Walgreens Deans Advisory Council. Established to enhance the profession and develop strategies for attracting, recruiting, and creating a thriving workplace for current and future pharmacists, the council has proven to be an effective initiative. Partnering with 17 school deans, Walgreens has leveraged its vast network and trusted relationships to drive meaningful progress in the field of pharmacy.

Key Accomplishments of the Walgreens Deans Advisory Council

Over the past year, the council has successfully implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges in the industry:

  1. Walgreens Student Loan 401(k) Match Program – This program aids students in managing student loan debt while securing their financial future by offering a loan repayment benefit tied to their 401(k) contributions.
  2. Enhanced Pharmacy Educational Assistance Program (PEAP) – With direct input from students, Walgreens has improved its tuition assistance program, which supports eligible team members pursuing education. Pharmacy interns working at Walgreens can receive up to $40,000 in tuition assistance.
  3. Expansion of the Residency Program – Walgreens has introduced new pharmacy residencies at Western University, Drake University, and Presbyterian College, providing additional training opportunities for pharmacy graduates.
  4. Establishment of Pharmacy Practice Fellowships – The council has initiated fellowships aimed at providing post-graduate training experiences, with a goal of hiring fellows upon completion of the program. These fellowships offer comprehensive exposure to various aspects of pharmacy practice management.
  5. Introduction of the Patient Code of Conduct – To ensure a positive work environment, Walgreens has implemented a Patient Code of Conduct that reinforces expectations for patient interactions, emphasizing respect and kindness towards pharmacy team members.
  6. Revamped Pharmacy Practice Experience Programs – Walgreens has updated its Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE) and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) programs to focus more on direct patient care rather than traditional prescription fulfillment, reflecting the evolving role of pharmacists.
  7. Advocacy for Expanded Pharmacist Scope of Practice – Walgreens has been actively advocating for legislative changes at both the state and federal levels. The company has supported initiatives such as the Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services (ECAPS) Act, which seeks to expand pharmacists’ ability to provide essential healthcare services.

The Role of Pharmacists in Healthcare

John Colaizzi Jr., PharmD, head of enterprise practice at Walgreens and co-chair of the council, emphasized the importance of as frontline healthcare providers. “Pharmacists continue to serve as the first point of contact for patients entering the healthcare system. Our work is rooted in the fundamental belief that local, accessible care is in high demand now more than ever. This partnership with the deans builds on our long-standing relationship with schools and is driving meaningful change across the industry to evolve our practice, encourage community pharmacy as a practice setting of choice, and create work environments that are conducive to the well-being of pharmacists everywhere.”

Addressing Financial and Sustainability Challenges in Pharmacy

In addition to focusing on workforce development, the council is actively engaged in efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of the profession. One of its primary initiatives is advocating for reimbursement reform, which is critical to the financial viability.

Rick Gates, chief pharmacy officer at Walgreens, underscored the importance of collaboration between the council and policymakers. “The deans have been an important voice in our ongoing dialogues with legislators, championing initiatives to stabilize and clarify reimbursement structures, emphasizing fair pricing, and recognizing’ important role in the healthcare ecosystem.”

Integration of Pharmacy Innovation into Education

Walgreens has been at the forefront of incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its business operations, which, in turn, are influencing curriculums. Innovations such as micro-fulfillment centers and centralized services are transforming how pharmacists manage workflows and patient care.

Angela Kashuba, co-chair of the Walgreens Deans Advisory Council and dean of the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, highlighted the significance of the collaboration. “Having a seat at the table has allowed us to share the latest innovations and patient care approaches, ensuring students have hands-on experiences that focus on improving patient healthcare. The commitment from Walgreens leadership, from CEO Tim Wentworth to Rick Gates, has been key to our success.”

Commitment to the Future

The Walgreens Deans Advisory Council represents a long-term commitment to driving systemic change that benefits pharmacists and patients alike. By fostering strong partnerships between academic institutions and the industry, Walgreens is paving the way for a more sustainable, dynamic, and patient-centered future in pharmacy.

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