College of Pharmacy, APhA-ASP Host 19th Annual Pharmtoberfest

The College of Pharmacy and UGA’s Chapter of the American Pharmacists Association-Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP) hosted the 19th annual Pharmtoberfest Health Fair October 21st. Members of the University and College community, including faculty, staff and students, along with local community members participated in the event, which provided screenings for high blood pressure, high blood sugar, HIV, Hepatitis C, and body mass index. Flu shots also were administered through the University Health Center.

APhA-ASP President Maddie Marsh, a P3 from Statesboro, remarked, “Thanks to a great turnout of pharmacy student volunteers, we were able to offer point of care testing, screenings and vaccinations to participants. Specifically, students provided: blood pressure and blood sugar testing; HIV screenings offered by Live Forward; Hep-C screenings coordinated by  Dr. Brian Seagraves; and flu shots courtesy of the University Health Center.”

65 individuals received point of care testing, and 178 individuals were administered the flu vaccine. Four participants were referred to their primary care provider for follow-up and management.

Student health groups from the College and from across campus also offered information on breast cancer awareness, diabetes, high blood pressure, immunizations, sexually transmitted diseases, alcohol education, over-the-counter medication safety, safe drug disposal, and more.

“We are so grateful to have this opportunity to serve our community, and we look forward to many more successful events in the future. We want to extend the invitation to everyone to join us at any and all future events,”  added Marsh.

Kroger Pharmacy continued its partnership with the College and supported Pharmtoberfest to help make the event a reality.  “I’m always excited and proud to sponsor Pharmtoberfest, because this event truly embodies our Kroger vision of Helping People Live Healthier Lives,” said Chuck Page RPh, the Health and Wellness Leader for the Atlanta Division of Kroger Health. “It’s very satisfying to see our future pharmacists reach out to the community and provide health care support and education.”