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UF Health University of Florida
Office of Student Success, Wellness, and Community Engagement College of Pharmacy
Community Engagement Overview

Community Engagement Requirements and Approval Process

Community service activities are actions undertaken to meet identified needs, aligning with our overarching goal of enhancing the quality of life for all individuals. Our community engagement initiative specifically targets populations facing health disparities and communities with significant social vulnerability. By concentrating our efforts on these groups, we aim to tackle health inequalities, foster a culture of service, and promote fairness in healthcare access.

In addition to existing co-curricular requirements, PharmD candidates in 1PD, 2PD, and 3PD classes must fulfill two hours of community engagement per semester (Fall/Spring). Non-compliance with these hours will result in an “Incomplete” grade for the respective PPD course until the requirements are met, potentially affecting progression in the program. Activities submitted for approval must meet specified criteria:

  • Prior approval from the SWC office is required before undertaking any service.
  • A minimum of 2 hours must be completed each semester, for both Fall and Spring, and hours must be submitted to receive credit.
  • Community engagement credit can be fulfilled by a single activity
  • Community Engagement hours can be earned during the Summer, after your first year of Pharmacy School. Summer hours will be applied to the following Fall semester.
  • Service must be conducted in a medically vulnerable area OR primarily focus on a population experiencing health disparities as defined by the NIH.

LINK TO PRE-APPROVAL FORM (PRE-EVENT/ACTIVITY): https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/005e620e5d7e45629f41a9099aaa70ad

LINK TO CLAIM CREDIT (POST-EVENT/ACTIVITY) : https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/9a55df9ad2d24f1daf70afaaf0ed29dc

Steps to Follow

Step 1

Individuals or organizations request approval for events and activities related to community engagement. Requests must be received two weeks before the service date.

Step 2

The SWC office will approve or deny the event or service.

Step 3

If approved, the event or service is rendered.

Step 4

Upon completion of the community engagement event, service hours should be submitted for credit

How to determine if an activity will be approved?

To be approved by the SWC Office, the event/activity proposed must meet one of the two requirements listed below: 

  1. Serve Target Populations as defined by NIH: Community engagement events or activities should focus on one of the following populations that experience health disparities, as indicated by the NIH:
    • People with lower socioeconomic status (SES)
    • Underserved rural communities
    • People with disabilities
  2. Serve in a Medically Underserved Geographical Location: The event or activity should be geographically located in a medically underserved area. The HRSA tool can be used to identify such areas. HRSA Shortage Area Tool

Examples of Community Engagement Activities

  • Health Screenings and Education: Students can conduct health screenings (Ex: blood pressure, glucose tests) and provide health education on topics such as diabetes, hypertension, and healthy living at local community centers or events.
  • Vaccination Clinics: Participate in or organize flu, COVID-19, shingles, and other vaccination clinics in collaboration with local health departments or community pharmacies.
  • Drug Take-Back Programs: Help organize and run drug take-back events to safely dispose of unused or expired medications, educating the public on the importance of proper medication disposal.
  • Nutrition Workshops: Host nutrition and wellness workshops focusing on topics like heart-healthy diets, the role of nutrition in chronic disease management, and reading nutrition labels.
  • Smoking Cessation Programs: Assist in organizing or supporting smoking cessation workshops and provide counseling and support to individuals looking to quit smoking.
  • Health Fairs: Participate in or organize health fairs where students can offer a variety of health services and education, from mental health resources to first aid tips.
  • Senior Care Engagement: Engage with senior centers to provide medication management counseling, fall prevention education, and social activities that enhance cognitive function.
  • Youth Outreach: Work with local schools or youth groups to educate children and teenagers about drug safety, the dangers of drug abuse, and careers in pharmacy.
  • Community Clean-Ups: Participate in or organize local clean-up days in parks, beaches, or other community areas, promoting environmental health and community pride.
  • Rural and Underserved Outreach: Organize trips to rural or underserved areas to provide pharmacy services that are otherwise unavailable, such as medication reviews and health education.
  • Mental Health First Aid: Offer or participate in mental health first aid training to help students learn how to assist someone experiencing a mental health crisis.