In a recent meeting of the Texas State Board of Pharmacy, the spotlight shone on the ongoing efforts to support pharmacists and pharmacy students facing challenges related to mental health and substance use. The Peer Assistance Program (PRN) reported a steady influx of referrals concerning potentially impaired professionals, underscoring the importance of vigilance in safeguarding public health.

During the past quarter, PRN has engaged in several impactful outreach initiatives. Notably, on February 27, representatives from the Texas Pharmacy Association visited the University of Texas at El Paso School of Pharmacy. There, they addressed student pharmacists, sharing vital statistics on mental health and substance use, while also highlighting the benefits of the peer assistance monitoring program.

The following day, PRN staff, alongside Dr. Sarah Wynne from the Texas Pharmacy Association, spoke at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. Their presentation, part of a seminar on drugs and alcohol, tackled the stigma surrounding addiction and its detrimental effects on recovery, particularly for healthcare professionals.

On March 3, PRN continued its educational efforts at the University of Texas College of Pharmacy, where discussions focused on problematic substance use and the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers. These sessions aimed to provide resources and support for those in need.

The PRN also made its presence felt at the Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacists (TSHP) annual conference in April, held at the Irving Convention Center. This event allowed PRN to enhance its visibility and connect with attendees, furthering its mission to educate and support pharmacy professionals across Texas.

As the meeting concluded, the board reviewed the latest Licensed Behavioral Health (LBB) numbers, which reflect the participation of licensed pharmacists and pharmacy students in the program. This data, initially submitted to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy in March, highlights the ongoing commitment to addressing mental health and substance use issues within the profession.

Looking ahead, PRN is eager to expand its collaboration with pharmacy schools and other organizations throughout Texas, aiming to raise awareness and provide essential support to those in the pharmacy community.