Prescriptions for Change: Making Pharmacy Accessible to Everyone

Presenter: Amanda Anson, Neurobiology & Physiology, Global Public Health Scholars

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For my practicum, I worked at Plumtree Pharmacy as a pharmacy technician over the course of several weeks, where I had the opportunity to serve the Belair community and learn directly from the pharmacist. This role allowed me to gain hands-on experience reading and filling prescriptions, as well as learning how to communicate with other healthcare professionals. I became skilled in verifying patient information, processing insurance claims, and analyzing different types of insurance coverage.Working in a fast-paced healthcare environment taught me how to manage time-sensitive information while maintaining clear and compassionate communication with both patients and providers. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of how the healthcare system functions and how various roles from pharmacists to technicians contribute to patient care.One of the most meaningful takeaways from my experience was recognizing the connection between pharmacy and public health literacy. I had the opportunity to explain medication effects to patients in a way that made sense to them, helping bridge gaps in understanding that are often overlooked. Additionally, our pharmacy offered free delivery services, which directly addressed transportation barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing their medications. This simple but impactful service reinforced how small actions can make a big difference in public health outcomes.Overall, this practicum helped me grow not only as a student, but as a person. It strengthened my confidence and further ignited my passion for healthcare. This experience affirmed my desire to continue on the path toward becoming a physician, and reminded me of the importance of empathy, communication, and access in medicine.