Student Pharmacists Attend MIP Day at the Capitol

February 21, 2007

ATLANTA - On Wednesday, February 21st, pharmacists and student pharmacists from across the state gathered at the Georgia State Capitol to show support for the profession of pharmacy at MIP (Member Involvement Program) Day. Over 20 student pharmacists from Mercer’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences attended.

During an informational breakfast hosted by the Georgia Pharmacy Association, Representative Buddy Carter, R.Ph. introduced House Bill 367 that is under consideration by the Georgia House. This major bill would allow a pharmacist to adhere to a patient’s formulary by interchanging a therapeutically equivalent drug if the physician authorizes the pharmacist to do so on the prescription. The pharmacist would then be required to notify the physician of the change within 72 hours.

Another highlight of the breakfast was when Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine spoke to the group as confirmation of their support of pharmacy.

After the informational breakfast, the student pharmacists had the opportunity to speak with members of the House and voiced their support for pharmacy. They also had the opportunity to sit in the Gallery at the House of Representatives and were recognized by the House with a thunderous round of applause. The day proved to be an informative and enjoyable experience for all who attended.