UMSOP Students Participate in Public Health Emergency Simulation to Strengthen Crisis Response Skills

Point of dispensing drill provides student pharmacists with valuable, hands-on experience to prepare for leadership in public health and emergency response.

A group of third year pharmacy students in white coats participating in a POD drill in Pharmacy Hall. One group of students is standing on one side of a long table, and another group is seated at the table.

By Pam Carder
March 19, 2025

On March 12, 70 third-year student pharmacists from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) took part in a public health exercise organized by the Maryland Board of Pharmacy Emergency Preparedness Task Force (EPTF). The event, a point of dispensing (POD) drill, simulated a crisis scenario where medications are rapidly distributed to the public during a widespread disease outbreak or bioterrorism event.

“At UMSOP, we are committed to preparing our students to address the health care challenges of tomorrow,” said Amy Ives, PharmD, assistant professor of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research (P-SHOR), and one of the event’s coordinating faculty members. “Pharmacists play an essential role in public health emergencies, and it is critical that we equip our students with the skills and experience necessary to respond effectively when needed.”

The drill, held in the Yankellow Grand Atrium in Pharmacy Hall, centered on a simulated anthrax outbreak, where individuals arrive at a designated location, complete required questionnaires, receive medications, and access counseling services if needed.

“It is vital that pharmacy students are trained to respond efficiently in times of crisis,” said Jen Thomas, PharmD, facilitator and chair of the EPTF. “Today’s drill offers students hands-on experience, enhancing their knowledge base and preparing them to serve their communities in times of need.”

Group of PharmD students in white coats, seated at a long table with baskets of medications in front of them. The students are participating in a POD drill. “Our primary objective today was to give pharmacy students the opportunity to experience a live POD drill, whether as dispensing pharmacists or patients,” said Karen Hopper, coordinator for the Maryland Responds Reserve Corps (MRC) at the Maryland Department of Health, which collaborated on the drill.

MRC is a volunteer organization composed of community members and health care professionals who dedicate their time and skills to support public health initiatives and provide assistance in emergencies. All members of the EPTF are also part of MRC.

“This simulation is invaluable in preparing students for real-world emergencies, such as exposure to a biologic agent—an event that, though rare, demands that we remain ready at all times,” Thomas added.

Hopper also highlighted the long-term benefits for students, emphasizing future networking opportunities. “Our members—whether active professionals or retired—are crucial to our preparedness efforts,” she noted. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table and are dedicated to helping students build their careers and professional networks.”

During the drill, students played various roles in the medication distribution process, gaining practical insights into managing a public health emergency.

“This is my first experience with an exercise like this, and it has been incredibly impactful,” said Samihah Uddin, a third-year pharmacy student. “Gaining this hands-on experience is essential in ensuring that we can respond efficiently and effectively during a real crisis.”

Two student pharmacists seated at a table in white coats, participating in a POD drill. A volunteer in a blue vest is standing at the end of the table. Reginald Briscoe, a third-year student, expressed his appreciation for the hands-on learning experience. “Today provided a valuable opportunity to practice setting up a station, triaging, consulting, and dispensing medications,” Briscoe said. “We also gained insight into assisting patients with complex medical histories, such as severe allergies, and learned how to make appropriate referrals. This experience has motivated me to participate in similar initiatives in the future to better serve the Maryland community.”

“Health crises can arise unexpectedly, and it is essential that our students are prepared to respond appropriately,” said Cherokee Layson-Wolf, PharmD, BCACP, FAPhA, professor of P-SHOR. “This event is just one of many steps to ensure our students are equipped with the skills and experience they need to serve their communities in emergencies.”

View more photos from the event on Flickr.