About Partners in D
Partners in D is a California statewide outreach initiative that draws on student pharmacists and faculty members from the 7 California schools of pharmacy, and community pharmacists, to provide seniors with Medicare Part D counseling. Medicare’s Prescription Drug Coverage program, commonly known as Medicare Part D, promises greater access to prescription medication for millions of elderly Americans. However, the program is cumbersome, complex, and confusing for many seniors, especially those in underserved communities.
Partners in D addresses these challenges in 3 ways:
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Providing advice to individual seniors about their Medicare Part D options.
During community-based outreach programs, student pharmacists help Medicare-eligible seniors evaluate their Medicare Part D options, get the most out of their Part D drug benefits, and advocate for seniors' prescription drug needs. School of Pharmacy faculty advisors are on hand to assist if needed. These programs take place throughout the year with more programs occurring during open enrollment periods. Student pharmacists also counsel seniors in community pharmacies where seniors come as regular customers. -
Training of student pharmacists and other health professional students about Medicare Part D.
Student pharmacists receive intense instruction about Medicare Part D, and they share this knowledge with their medical, nursing, and dental school peers in special classroom presentations. Ongoing research to evaluate and improve Partners in D activities.
Partners in D is continually assessed through research and improved based upon research results.
Partners in D is a 3.5 year program funded by the Amgen Foundation. This innovative program engages the unique skills and training of student and community pharmacists to help underserved seniors choose a Medicare Part D program that best suits their individual needs.