APhA-ASP Operation Heart
As the public’s most accessible health care provider, pharmacists can play a significant role in the
prevention and management of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In fact, studies have already demonstrated
the value of pharmacists in improving cardiovascular outcomes. In 2009, a trial published in the
Archives of Internal Medicine showed that collaboration between physicians and pharmacists resulted in
better control of hypertension, the most common CVD and a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity
and mortality.
As future health care professionals and patient advocates, student pharmacists can support these efforts
and address an unmet need in public health by helping patients identify and understand their risks for
CVD. Through public awareness, community outreach, and patient-specific education on cardiovascular risk
factors, student pharmacists can empower patients to take control of their health and prevent
cardiovascular disease before it starts.
Through participation in Operation Heart student pharmacist will work in their communities to encourage
lifestyle modifications, monitor associated risk factors, and provide education about medications for
heart disease.
Operation Heart National Liaison: Faith Burnham (fburnham@uthsc.edu)
Program Results
Operation Heart was launched as an official APhA-ASP National Patient Care project in 2010. During the
2024-2025 campaign student pharmacists achieved the following results:
- 114 chapters participated
- 8,872 student pharmacists participated
- 613 faculty and staff members participated
- 329 pharmacy practitioners participated
- 754 Operation Heart events conducted
- 1,221 patients referred to their primary care provider
- 83,370 patients received health and wellness services
- 1,110,262 individuals reached through public relations initiatives
Online Resources
Operation Heart Award Report & Recognition
APhA-ASP recognizes each chapter that implements an Operation Heart program in their community. One
Chapter from each of the eight APhA-ASP regions are recognized during Midyear Regional Meetings. In
addition, the eight regional winners, along with one national winner, and two national runners-up are
recognized during the APhA Annual Meeting & Exposition at the APhA-ASP Opening General Session and
in Student Pharmacist magazine.