Greetings!
I am delighted to inform you about recent news, events and accomplishments at the University of Puerto Rico School of Pharmacy.
2016 was a year of many accomplishments. Our Doctor of Pharmacy students continue to successfully represent the School of Pharmacy in diverse forums locally, as well as abroad. Their presence in national student organizations activities continues to increase, as well as their participation in educational experiences in collaboration with partnering academic institutions.
The School continues to increase its collaboration with local industry, government, professional and community partnering institutions, as well as with other schools of pharmacy, so students can gain experience from a wider variety of practice scenarios.
Advanced Practice Experiences for students in other schools of pharmacy are well underway. These experiences provide the students the opportunity to gain perspective on the practice of pharmacy in different cultural contexts and healthcare settings, and to learn about practice approaches that can then be incorporated in our local setting. By hosting students from other institutions, the School can also showcase its programs and provide opportunities for collaborations for students and faculty.
A number of our graduates also continue to pursue residencies in order to hone their skills in diverse areas. The School continues to successfully offer its ASHP accredited residency programs, which have now incorporated a Certificate in Academia, for those residents who may be interested in future academic careers.
The graduates of 2016 displayed a noteworthy first time passing rate on the national licensure examination (NAPLEX), with a 93% passing rate. The school of pharmacy continues to improve its academic programs, making this a priority in order to fulfill its mission of educating pharmacists that can serve our patients and communities.
The Medication Therapy Management Clinic initiative has proven to be a very effective service and educational experience in which faculty, students and residents participate.
Our faculty continues to achieve recognition in scientific as well as professional initiatives, including publications in peer reviewed journals and grant awards, community engagement and professional activities. All these efforts have a significant impact in the academic programs of the School.
The Continuing Education Division was reorganized in 2015, and is offering new programs like the Immunization Certification for pharmacists in partnership with APhA, and several other new initiatives will soon follow.
Likewise, 2017 will bring new accomplishments, as the Masters in Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate program is under revision, and a new approach to graduate education will soon be underway.
The Doctor of Pharmacy Program will undergo its comprehensive evaluation by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education in March 2017. This will be a great opportunity to reflect on our achievements and a good starting point for the development of the new strategic plan for the School of Pharmacy.
Wanda T. Maldonado, B.S.Pharm, Pharm.D.
Dean