FAMU CoPPS, IPH Partners with PAN Foundation to Expand Public Health Practicum Opportunities
Washington, D.C — A new partnership between Florida A&M University (FAMU) College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health (CoPPS, IPH) and the Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation is opening the door for Master of Public Health (MPH) learners to step beyond the classroom and into meaningful public health work that impacts patients across the country.
The PAN Foundation is a national nonprofit organization committed to helping people access the treatment they need. Through financial assistance programs, advocacy efforts, and patient education initiatives, the organization works to remove barriers that prevent individuals from receiving essential care. Since 2004, the Foundation has helped more than 1.3 million patients afford life-changing treatments and navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. About us - PAN Foundation
Now, through this new collaboration, FAMU CoPPS, IPH MPH learners will have the opportunity to contribute directly to those efforts.
Students will participate in experiential practicum projects focused on patient education, health literacy, and the development of culturally responsive resources designed to help communities better understand and navigate healthcare. The partnership allows learners to transform the knowledge they gain in the classroom into real-world solutions that support patients and promote health equity.
Beyond gaining practical experience, students will also gain insight into how national nonprofit organizations advocate for patients, influence healthcare policy, and work to ensure that cost is not a barrier to care.
“This partnership with the PAN Foundation creates meaningful experiential learning opportunities for our learners to better understand the real-world challenges patients face when navigating healthcare access and medication affordability,” said Dr. Darice E. Richard-Mitchell, Director of Experiential Education Programs at FAMU’s CoPPS, IPH. “Experiences like this allow students to connect public health principles with practical solutions that help improve access to care and support patients in meaningful ways.”
The collaboration reflects a shared vision between FAMU CoPPS, IPH and the PAN Foundation: preparing the next generation of public health professionals while working toward a healthcare system that is more equitable, accessible, and patient-centered.
For MPH learners, the experience represents more than just a practicum requirement. It is an opportunity to develop leadership skills, contribute to national health initiatives, and participate in work that helps individuals and families receive the care they need.
Through partnerships like this, FAMU continues to prepare students not only to understand public health challenges but to actively lead solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.
Story Contributors:
Lacy Myers | P2 Student-Learner | PharmD Candidate College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health Florida A&M University and
Sara Leo | PP2 Student-Learner | PharmD Candidate College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health Florida A&M University