Developing health-system pharmacists with a pharmacy scholars program

To develop a program that supports pharmacy student education through mentorship, financial assistance, and experiential learning, creating structured pathways into health-system pharmacy practice. The program is designed to strengthen recruitment, retention, and long-term engagement of pharmacists within a health system.

In 2021, Geisinger Enterprise Pharmacy launched the Geisinger Pharmacy Scholars Program in partnership with regional schools of pharmacy. The initiative identifies high-achieving students entering undergraduate and doctor of pharmacy programs and connects them with a nationally recognized health system throughout their academic journey. Selected students receive mentorship from a Geisinger pharmacist, preferential access to Geisinger practice sites for introductory and advanced pharmacy practice experiences, a $20,000 service loan upon matriculation from the second to third professional year, and guaranteed employment as a pharmacist within the health system upon graduation. The inaugural class includes 5 students from Wilkes University's Nesbitt School of Pharmacy and is expected to enter the workforce in 2028. Saint Joseph's University Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and the University of Pittsuburgh School of Pharmacy have since joined the program. The program anticipates seeing 8 to 11 students graduate per year beginning in 2028. The program also supports partner schools in student recruitment and aims to foster long-term workforce sustainability.

The Geisinger Pharmacy Scholars Program provides a replicable model for health systems to invest in pharmacy education, strengthen workforce pipelines, and enhance student access to health system pharmacy practice.