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On March 4 and 5, 2017, ɫ����Ƶ pharmacy students and faculty took part in the college’s second Community-Based Pharmacy Point-of-Care Testing certificate course. This program, which trains pharmacists and student pharmacists in administering point-of-care testing, is the first of its kind in Maine.

During the training sessions, participants learned about the various point-of-care tests available in community pharmacy settings, including screenings for diabetes, dyslipidemias, Group A streptococcus, influenza, HIV and hepatitis C, as well as physical assessments. In addition to learning about the procedures for conducting these tests, they demonstrated their ability to collect specimens, interpret tests and develop patient care plans. Faculty also completed a “train-the-trainer” program, in which they learned how to teach the certificate program to other pharmacists and student pharmacists. 

James Krebs, M.S., Pharm.D., assistant dean of Experiential Education and clinical assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy stated, "In coordination with physicians and other providers, point-of-care testing at the pharmacy empowers pharmacists to use effective and fast technology to aid decision-making at the point of care to improve patient health, especially in underserved and rural areas."

Developed by faculty at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Ferris State University, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Community Pharmacy-Based Point-of-Care Testing certificate program complements pharmacists’ robust education. The program was designed for community pharmacy, academia and pharmacy-associated staff. 

To learn more about the University of New England’s College of Pharmacy, visit www.une.edu/pharmacy

To apply, visit www.une.edu/admissions