Medco announces scholarship program for pharmacy students

FRANKLIN LAKES, N.J. Medco Labor Coalition has announced that it will be offering a scholarship program to students, in support of their efforts in achieving a degree in pharmacy.

The scholarship is based on a student’s academic achievement, his or her commitment to a career in pharmacy, leadership and community service, according to published reports. Medco is the nation’s leading pharmacy benefit manager, and the only coalition focused on providing pharmacy benefits to small and medium-sized unions.

National reports estimate that there will be a shortage of about 157,000 pharmacists needed to fill prescriptions for millions of patients in the U.S. The ever-increasing role of the pharmacist has elevated the status of the line of work to areas of engineering, genetics, manufacturing, drug development, public policy and clinical specialization. By promoting this new scholarship program, it will enhance the drive for students to be involved in these areas of pharmacy.

“A career in pharmacy is now so much more than it was just a few years ago, literally transcending plastic trays and counting pills to now encompassing everything from genetics and personalized medicine to electronic prescribing,” Pamela Miller, vice president of market strategy and development for Medco stated. “Delivering prescription care in the 21st century presents one of the greatest domestic healthcare challenges to our nation, and we’re excited to support students today who hold the promise for tomorrow.”

The deadline for applications is April 15, 2008 and can be mailed to:Medco Labor Coalition Scholarship, 4320-G Wade Hampton Blvd.,Taylors, SC  29687or online at <a title="www.scholarshipprograms.org" href="http://www.scholarshipprograms.org/" target="_blank" />www.scholarshipprograms.org.