St. Louis College of Pharmacy students win national Script Your Future Award

A team of students at St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University School of Medicine was chosen as one of three winners of the national Script Your Future Award, a national campaign to raise awareness about medication adherence. The team also received the Creative Interprofessional Team Event Award, one of three special distinctions. More than 80 colleges of pharmacy across the country were involved in the event.

"We're teaching students the importance of interprofessional collaboration," says group advisor Gloria Grice, Pharm.D., associate director of experiential programs and associate professor of pharmacy practice at St. Louis College of Pharmacy. "All health care professionals, including pharmacists, physicians, and therapists, are working together more. Studies show this type model of care is in the best interest of patients."

The collaborative group effort was led by St. Louis College of Pharmacy fourth-year student Sonalie Patel. Fellow St. Louis College of Pharmacy students Libby Herman and Patrick Hyatt joined her on the organizing committee. Students studying medicine, physical therapy, and occupational therapy at Washington University rounded out the committee. Faculty members from both St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University assisted the team in their efforts.

"This is an incredible honor," Patel says. "I've been blessed to work with some excellent students from both St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University. Forming these bonds now will help all of us and our future patients."

During the month of February, more than 48,000 St. Louis residents received the group's message: "See it, Hear it, Write it, Understand it, Share it." The group won the Creative Interprofessional Team Event Award for their phrase and for ensuring that each profession had a unique adherence message for the patients. Student pharmacists stressed the importance of using pill boxes and medication lists. Physical therapy students talked about appropriate exercises based on medications and conditions. Occupational therapy students educated the public on how to remember to take medications, such as setting alarm clocks or smart phone reminders. Medical students ensured that patients understood their medical conditions and the importance of taking medications.

"I could not be more proud of Sonalie and all of the volunteers," Grice says. "Students have precious little time outside of class, and they used every moment to improve the health of St. Louis."

As part of the victory, team members will travel to Washington, D.C., this summer to accept the award at the national Script Your Future Meeting.