The three campuses of Idaho State University (ISU) are interconnected through an asynchronous platform, facilitating collaboration with Idaho and Alaska. In addition to academic connectivity, student pharmacists have ample opportunities for collaborative engagement in legislative and policy initiatives in both Alaska and Idaho.
This successful collaboration was highlighted by two noteworthy events: the Alaska Legislative Fly-In and Idaho Pharmacy Day at the Capitol. These signature advocacy endeavors led to our chapter receiving the APhA–ASP Chapter Policy and Legislative Award at APhA2024 in Orlando.
A platform for student advocacy
The Alaska Legislative Fly-In is a joint venture between the ISU College of Pharmacy and the Alaska Pharmacy Association (AKPhA). This annual event provides a platform for student pharmacists to advocate on issues pertinent to pharmacy practice, patient autonomy in pharmacy selection, safety, and regulatory processes.
In April 2023, ten student pharmacists traveled to Juneau, AK, to engage directly with state senators and representatives regarding legislative priorities. Senate Bill 94/House Bill 112 aimed at streamlining the licensure process, enhancing public safety, ensuring compliance with the Drug Supply Chain and Security Act, and clarifying pharmacists’ roles in epinephrine access. Senate Bill 121 focused on patient freedom of pharmacy choice, facilitating safe and efficient access to clinician-administered drugs, and addressing the objectionable practices of PBMs. This immersive experience not only familiarized pharmacists and student pharmacists with the legislative process but also encouraged active participation in legislative affairs.
Additionally, our student pharmacists organized a health fair at the state capitol, offering point-of-care blood glucose, A1C, and lipid panel testing for legislators, staff, and employees, thereby enhancing public awareness of pharmacists' scope of practice. This event was made possible through the dedication of ISU students and supported by AKPhA.
Engaging with legislators
Turning to Idaho, Pharmacy Day at the Capitol convened in Boise, ID, drawing more than 50 student pharmacists from ISU, with 30 presenting. Fifteen posters showcased various ways in which pharmacists in Idaho leverage their prescribing authority to benefit residents. Each poster highlighted past legislation enabling pharmacists to expand their practice, ranging from point-of-care testing and treatment for uncomplicated UTIs to advancements in critical care pharmacy.
Students engaged legislators directly on current legislative matters related to pharmacy practice. Alongside poster presentations, multiple stations offered services such as vaccinations, blood pressure checks, and point-of-care testing for blood glucose, A1C, and cholesterol, fostering community engagement and awareness.
Pivotal for enhancing the profession
Participation in legislative events equips student pharmacists with insights into the impact of legislation on pharmacy practice scope while facilitating meaningful interactions with legislators and the public, underscoring pharmacists’ role as accessible health care providers. Continued advocacy for pharmacy practice is pivotal for enhancing patient care, advancing health care policies, and nurturing positive relationships with legislators and communities alike.