I am getting close to the half-way mark during my fourth-year rotations, and I couldn’t be more thankful for everything I have learned so far. Each rotation has given me a unique perspective on the profession of pharmacy that is reflective of the specialty and focus of each.

I am on my fourth rotation, and I am fortunate to have been designated to the Texas Pharmacy Association (TPA) as my elective rotation. With the guidance and mentorship of my preceptor, CEO Debbie Garza, RPh, and the supporting staff at TPA, I can in all honesty report that this rotation has been especially instrumental to my growth as a student pharmacist.

My initial impression and conception of TPA was very misguided and lacking. I do not claim to represent all pharmacy students, but having spoken to other students, I feel that there is a consensual lack of knowledge and appreciation for the role our state professional organization plays in the advancement of our profession as well as for the importance of advocacy among those who are invested in it. As the end of my rotation draws near, and my time here is completed, I reflect on all my experiences and interactions knowing that each moment was vital to the growth of my understanding, and deep appreciation for advocacy in pharmacy.

With the profession of pharmacy changing considerably in recent years, pharmacists are often at the front line when it comes to accessing and promoting health care services to patients. These changes have begun to emphasize a less technical role for pharmacists and have also opened up many diverse opportunities for innovative pharmacists who dare to think outside the box. It is understood that the role of pharmacist must evolve to allow us to perform more duties within our scope of practice. But who will fight for the pharmacists to ensure that they don’t become a commodity and that their worth is valued to the extent of the positive impact they provide in health care? The importance of advocacy has never been so clear, and thankfully it is never too late to let your voice be heard.

Advocacy in its most basic form is simply educating others and showing support for a meaningful cause. In order to continue advancing the role of the pharmacist, it is important for pharmacists to advocate for their expanded scope of practice as health care providers. Research has proven that clinical services provided by pharmacists improve patient outcomes, which is the goal of every health care professional.

To make a difference, pharmacists need to be active and get involved. The involvement does not need to be time-consuming, however. By just becoming a member of TPA, members show their support and strength by numbers. A small amount of time can make a big difference, particularly when large numbers of people act together in a coordinated manner for a common cause.

Becoming a member of TPA has been a most gratifying and significant step I have taken as I continue my path through my fourth year of pharmacy school. In a time when I am aware that I have so much to learn but feel lost half of the time, I feel great knowing that I am doing something positive to promote for the profession I love and have chosen. I look forward to the future of pharmacy and plan to continue doing my part to support advocacy in pharmacy. I plan to continue my membership at TPA when I graduate knowing and understanding the long hours and hard work TPA tirelessly puts forward. The possibilities are immense, and our profession can and will advance, but first we must do our part. Join and support TPA!

Lopez completed a six-week rotation with the Texas Pharmacy Association during September and October of 2018.

Every two years, students and pharmacists get an exciting opportunity to meet at the Capitol in order to represent and advance the profession of pharmacy. For most students and some pharmacists, it will be their first time to visit the Capitol and to speak to thier representative or senator which can be nerve wracking. During my first visit, I overheard several questions such as “what do I say” or “why am I here?” The SPARx program is a great way to address these concerns and instill confidence to future pharmacists. Too many of us complain about the issues, yet either do nothing or do not know where to start. The regulation and legislation workshops are a great tool for educating students on how government works, the current issues in pharmacy, and how to take action.

Recently, I was at a residency mentoring social which consisted of at least 150 students and pharmacists. When the speaker, Dr. Anjanette Wyatt, asked the audience how many people know who their representative or senator is, less than 5 people raised their hands. These people are the movers and changers in our field, yet less than 1% could identify their legislator. I expect that this will change after the SPARx Program and that we can produce more active and passionate pharmacists. Moving forward, I hope we can all come together as leaders in the community, in order to change the profession of pharmacy to how WE see fit, so patients are able to receive the best care at the end of the day.