Mock Board of Pharmacy Hearing Equips the Next Generation of Pharmacists

How should pharmacists ensure compliance with laws and rules to protect the health of the public? 

Cedarville University’s School of Pharmacy addressed that question during a mock board of pharmacy hearing in early November. The purpose of the mock event is to simulate what a hearing would look like for pharmacists who are not in compliance with pharmacy regulations or who are seeking reinstatement of their pharmacist license. 

Dr. Jeff Huston, associate professor of pharmacy practice, serves as the vice president for the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy. In his roles as a faculty member and pharmacy leader in Ohio, he is bringing a unique perspective into the classroom that bridges the gap between pharmacists and the board. 

“For many years, people were scared to call the board of pharmacy if they had questions,” said Huston. “One of the goals here is to show that the board is approachable. We’re not looking to function as a ‘gotcha’ organization. If pharmacists have questions or are seeking guidance, the board wants to help.” 

The case for the hearing was pulled from public record and involved the reinstatement of a pharmacist’s license after stealing drugs for personal use. 

“This experience will help students realize their actions have consequences, helping them understand the ramifications of decisions and what that could mean for future practice,” said Dr. Justin Cole, director of the Center for Pharmacy Innovation and associate professor of pharmacy practice. 

Through this event, students are equipped with an understanding of how the board works, why it exists and its goal of seeking the public good. This helps demystify inevitable visits from inspectors or specialists from the board, who are there to make sure pharmacies are safe for patients and uphold laws and rules. 

Cedarville University, a Baptist institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate programs across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by the Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.