PAN announces new public health practicum program with Florida A&M University’s Institute of Public Health

As part of its continued commitment to accelerating access to healthcare, the PAN Foundation announced that it will be welcoming Master of Public Health (MPH) learners from Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) Institute of Public Health (IPH)—a renowned historically black college and university (HBCU)—as part of FAMU’s MPH practicum. This practicum provides an in-depth exploration of the programs offered by the PAN Foundation, with a specialized focus on creating culturally relevant education tools and resources.

“We’re thrilled to be able to create a space for shared learning and to support a new generation of public health professionals,” said James J. Ridley, PharmD, PAN’s Director of Clinical Affairs. “We know that public health professionals serve a key role in creating healthy, informed communities. We hope this partnership increases awareness of programs like PAN and helps these MPH learners navigate the complexities of healthcare.”

Throughout the practicum, learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of PAN’s programs. They will collaborate and strategize with PAN’s Community Impact and Education team, which includes Kristina Wint, MPA, and Luisa Santa-Coleman, MPH. Their focus will be on engaging patients with the greatest need, as well as the providers who serve them.

“Partnering with PAN for this year’s MPH practicum is about more than just students completing an internship,” said Jenelle Williams, PhD, MPH, Assistant Professor and Integrated Practice Experiences Coordinator at FAMU, IPH Program. “This is an opportunity for students to engage with a community and learn from experts in their respective fields. By contributing to ongoing health initiatives at PAN and working through real-world patient experiences, students will build skills they need to carry into their public health careers.”

Students will have the opportunity to learn about the landscape of charitable patient assistance programs while building upon their professional development. This includes:

  • Developing culturally relevant education tools and resources
  • Strategize efforts to improve engagement among patients and healthcare professionals
  • Engaging with and strengthening PAN’s Stronger Together: Atlanta initiative
  • Immersing themselves in the activities and culture of PAN
  • Actively contributing to PAN’s mission of accelerating access to affordable, equitable healthcare through financial assistance, advocacy, and education

About the PAN Foundation

As a leading charitable foundation and healthcare advocacy organization, the PAN Foundation is dedicated to accelerating access to treatment for those who need it most and empowering patients on their healthcare journeys. We provide critical financial assistance for treatment costs, advocate for policy solutions that expand access to care, and deliver education on complex topics—all driven by our belief that everyone deserves access to affordable, equitable healthcare. Since 2004, our financial assistance programs have helped more than 1.2 million people to start or stay on life-changing treatment. In addition, we’ve achieved major policy victories that increase access to care, mobilized patient advocates to call for change, and educated people nationwide on critical healthcare-related topics. We’re committed to working towards a future where equitable health outcomes are a reality for all.

About Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

Founded on October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university in Tallahassee, Florida. What distinguishes FAMU from other universities is its legacy of providing access to high-quality, affordable education with programs and services that guide students toward successfully achieving their dreams. FAMU is part of the State University System of Florida and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.