About Partners in D
Partners in D is a California statewide outreach initiative that draws on student pharmacists and faculty members from 7 California schools of pharmacy, and community partners, 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 where seniors live and gather, and in clinics where they receive health care, 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. -
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 health professional students and practicioners 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 pharmacists to help underserved seniors choose a Medicare Part D program that best suits their individual needs.