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The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA) is once again collaborating with the Saint Louis University School of Medicine to offer free healthcare and education to Chinese speaking patients. 

SNPhA students helped provide services at the free Chinese Clinic that opened Saturday, Aug. 15 and will run from 1-4:30 p.m. monthly through May 2021 at the St. Louis Modern Chinese School, 6710 Clayton Road in Richmond Heights, Mo. 

“The goal is to assist Chinese speaking patients, especially underserved patients who have no insurance coverage in the U.S.,” said Jingyang Fan, PharmD, assistant dean of academic affairs and clinical associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice. “Often times, these patients are visiting their families in the U.S., and they need healthcare and refills on their chronic medications.” 

“It is my responsibility to keep the organization’s mission of serving underserved communities at the forefront,” said SNPhA President Christian Watts, SOP third-year student. “The clinic allowed us to provide blood pressure screenings, counseling tips, and find more cost-effective medications for these patients, all at no cost.” 

 Fan detailed the specifics of a clinic visit. “First, patients see a team of medical and pharmacy students for the collection of their medical and medication history. Their primary reason for coming to the clinic is gathered at that time. 

“SIUE pharmacy students help in gathering patients’ home medication list and translate or find drug information if the medications are from China. They also perform blood pressure screenings along with the medical students. The medical and pharmacy students work together to develop assessments and plans for the patient.” 

 Medical students then present the patient’s information to the attending physician, and the physician determines a plan for the patient, according to Fan. 

“If medications are prescribed, pharmacy students help the medical students in calling pharmacies, as well as educating the patients on the medications,” she continued. “The Chinese Clinic is a wonderful experience for interprofessional practice for both the medical and pharmacy students. It is not just an interprofessional education opportunity, but also a chance to provide patient care in the real world.” The SOP has participated in the free Chinese Clinic since 2017. 

“This type of co-curricular event and community partnership provides such an impactful experience for our pharmacy students to interface with diverse communities, which further enhances their learning and personal and professional development,” said Lakesha Butler, PharmD, BCPS, clinical professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice, and SOP director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

“I enjoyed the ability to work as a team with the medical students, and the ability to take the lead while presenting the case regarding drug therapy and possible adverse events,” said Tatsiana Maksimenka, SIUE SOP second-year. 

“I learned that even in the midst of this pandemic, SNPhA’s service is still needed,” offered Watts. “Having the opportunity to still serve our patients in person and virtually, showed me that hardship should not stop you. It should encourage you to become more innovative.” 

Photos:
Jingyang Fan, PharmD, assistant dean of Academic Affairs and clinical associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice.

Christian Watts, SNPhA president and SOP third-year student.