Auburn University pharmacy students have started a student-run clinic that provides care for the underprivileged.
The group, Equal Access Auburn, has been offering assistance to those in need in the Auburn and Opelika communities.
Last Thursday, Oct. 22, Equal Access Auburn provided free flu shots, blood pressure and blood glucose screenings at the Christian Care Ministries Soup Kitchen in Opelika.
Devon Burhoe, a third-year pharmacy student, said being a part of Equal Access Auburn has helped her become a more well-rounded pharmacist.
“I feel very humbled to be a part of an organization that is able to reach out to the underserved population,” Burhoe said. “Giving vaccinations as a student is a privilege since it is something that every person in the community needs.”
Equal Access Auburn goes to the Christian Care Ministries Soup Kitchen once a month to help the underserved.
Lauren Gilmore, a member of the Equal Access Auburn Board of Directors, said she feels it is important for all pharmacy students to participate in Equal Access Auburn activities.
“I feel that it is my duty as a student pharmacist to utilize my knowledge and skills to give back to the community,” Gilmore said. “I am passionate about Equal Access Auburn because it is an organization that focuses on helping the underserved populations get the health care they are in need of.”
The health care initiative the organization provides is important, because the people receiving the vaccinations would probably not be able to gain access to or afford the vaccinations otherwise, according to Matt Crouch, communications director for the Harrison School of Pharmacy.
“A lot of people do not realize the scope of practice pharmacists have,” Burhoe said. “Giving immunizations is just one of the many clinical practices we can provide to the community.”
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