UA College of Pharmacy Students Win National Clinical Skills Title

David Von Behren
Jan. 23, 2001


University of Arizona College of Pharmacy students Michael Thomas and Robin Hager-McLaughlin are winners of the National Clinical Skills Competition, sponsored by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and Merck-Medco Managed Care LLC.

Thomas and Hager-McLaughlin rose above a field of more than 3,000 student competitors from pharmacy schools across the nation to earn the prestigious title. The contest was held at the recent ASHP Annual Midyear Clinical meeting and included a timed written exam and oral presentations.

In it's fifth year, the National Clinical Skills Competition is designed to give pharmacy students a head start in developing their patient-care skills. This is the first time UA College of Pharmacy students have won the competition and the second time UA pharmacy students have finished among the top 10 finalists.

"Michael and Robin's success speaks very highly of the leadership and competence of our students, but also speaks to the kind of education and training our school provides," said Michael Katz, clinical associate professor in the department of pharmacy practice and science.

Thomas and Hager-McLaughlin were among more than 60 student teams who won preliminary competitions at their local pharmacy schools. The contest offers students the opportunity to analyze actual patient cases, demonstrate their skills in assessing a patient's medical history, identify drug therapy problems and treatment goals and recommend a pharmacist's care plan.

Thomas is scheduled to earn his doctor of pharmacy degree in May 2001 and plans to complete a pharmacy residency after graduation.
Hager-McLaughlin is scheduled to earn her doctor of pharmacy degree in May 2001 and plans to pursue graduate studies.

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