Manchester University’s Dean of the School of Pharmacy, W. Thomas Smith, was recently published in the Journal Gazette. His op-ed, which can be read below, discusses the growing need for pharmacists in the industry.
The full Journal Gazette article can be found here.
Need for pharmacists grows more complicated
As Indiana’s population ages and chronic disease becomes more common, pharmacists play an increasingly important role in patient care in community pharmacy and hospital settings. Trained in medication management, drug interactions, immunizations and preventive care, they work in partnership with other health professionals.
Yet, pharmacy closures and reduced hours are limiting access to care across the state, especially in communities with few nearby pharmacies. With many pharmacists nearing retirement, workforce needs will only grow.
Indiana needs more students entering pharmacy school, but many families are asking a practical question: How can they afford it? Pharmacy remains a rewarding career, yet rising costs are discouraging talented students from pursuing it.
Tuition matters, but so do rent, groceries and transportation. This fall, new federal loan limits will leave many students responsible for covering everyday living expenses out of pocket while completing rigorous coursework and clinical training.
Pharmacy schools cannot ignore that reality. If Indiana wants a strong pharmacist pipeline, institutions must make training more affordable and more flexible.
At Manchester University in Fort Wayne, we are responding with schedules that create time for students to work, partnerships with employers that offer tuition assistance, and admissions guidance on realistic affordability plans.
As health care grows more complex and access more fragile, Indiana will need pharmacists who can improve medication safety and support patients in every community. Helping students afford pharmacy school is not just an education issue; it is a healthcare access issue.
W. Thomas Smith
Fort Wayne
