Navigating Pharmacy Benefit Management and Post-Baccalaureate Medical Studies: A Comprehensive Guide for Students

This article serves as a comprehensive resource for students navigating the complexities of Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) and Post-Baccalaureate Medical Studies (PBMS). Whether you're aiming to enhance your career potential in healthcare or delve into the intricacies of pharmaceutical benefits, this guide provides valuable insights and resources to aid your journey.

Understanding Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM)

Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) is a crucial aspect of healthcare, focusing on managing prescription drug benefits on behalf of health insurers, employers, and other payers. A strong understanding of PBM is essential for anyone looking to excel in the healthcare industry.

PBIA Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management Certificate Course

The Pharmacy Benefit Institute of America (PBIA) offers an introductory certificate course designed to equip individuals with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the world of PBM. This course is tailored to provide adequate foundational knowledge required for higher-level evaluation of RFPs, contracts, and overall PBM performance with emphasis on cost effectiveness. Knowing which account to use for each of your clients is critical.

Key Features:

Comprehensive Curriculum: The PBIA Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management certificate course brings all of this knowledge to one place and allows you to get the information you need through an online course.
Continuing Education Credits: The Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management certificate course is eligible for CE in most states. PBIA is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®. This program is valid for up to 5 PDCs for the SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®.
Cost-Effective Investment: The cost of the Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management certificate course is $425 for members and $495 for non-members which includes online instruction, a final exam, training guide, and continuing education credits, if applicable.
Certificate of Completion: Upon completion, the student will receive a certificate of completion for Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management.
Flexible Learning: Course instruction will be delivered through GoToTraining.
Pathway to CPBS® Designation: The PBIA Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management Certificate course is an elective of the Certified Pharmacy Benefits Specialist® (CPBS®) designation. Earning the CPBS designation elevates your credibility as a professional and prepares you to climb the corporate ladder and best serve your clients or members. By completing the PBIA Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management Certificate course you will be one step closer to obtaining the designation.

Important Note: There are no refunds for any self-study programs. Discounts are offered to PBIA Corporate Partners and company groups over 25.

Post-Baccalaureate Medical Studies (PBMS) Program

The Post-Baccalaureate Medical Studies (PBMS) Program is designed as an academic bridge for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree and intend to pursue graduate study in the health sciences. It caters to individuals aiming for medical school, dental school, physician assistant programs, or other master’s- and doctoral-level programs in the health sciences.

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Tailored Curriculum

Students work with expert faculty advisors to develop a course of study tailored to their professional and personal goals. In small classes, students work side-by-side with medical professionals with decades of experience as practitioners in a range of health care disciplines. The program offers all prerequisite coursework-as well as distinctive upper-level experiences-to assist students toward entering medical school.

Career Advancement

The program is ideal for two types of students: career changers (who have most or all of the graduate school prerequisites to take) and career enhancers (who wish to reinforce their academic foundation prior to applying to graduate school). A minimum of 34 credit hours taken on campus is required.

Supportive Faculty

Academic advising is the greatest strength of the PBMS program. Your advisors will be caring, experienced and dedicated physicians and clinicians who are expert at helping students achieve their professional goals.

Success Rate

More than 95% of our students either successfully matriculate into a professional school, such as medical or dental; enroll in a specialized master’s program; or achieve a high-level research or clinical position in their chosen field. Our graduates are highly trained, open to new ideas, skilled in health care and able to adapt and thrive through long and meaningful careers.

Resources and Support at OHSU

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) offers a range of resources to support students in their academic journey.

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MD-Ph.D. Ph.D. students in PBMS who are offered a stipend upon admission are considered to be a part of our Graduate Researchers United (GRU) Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Check the PhD Student Stipend Information link on the OHSU Graduate Studies page for the most current stipend payment policy.

Office for Student Access (OSA): Serves employees and students by striving to create a community of inclusion, where students from historically underrepresented populations can thrive. As part of OHSU's commitment to diversity, the Office for Student Access (OSA) is committed to providing equal access and reasonable accommodation for qualified students. Student Access also provides resources for general academic support, including learning styles, study strategies, and time management. Free to students!
Graduate Student Organization (GSO): Represents graduate students from all areas of OHSU. Provides social, recreational, and cultural activities that allow students to supplement their ability to become well-balanced research and health care professionals.
OHSU Library: The largest health sciences library in Oregon serves the faculty, staff, and students of OHSU, as well as health professionals and residents of the State of Oregon. The OHSU Library staff provides services in support of teaching, research, and patient care.
Student Learning Support Specialist: The Student Learning Support Specialist, Emily Hillhouse, Ph.D., supports students as they adapt their study and personal habits to the demands of being a student at OHSU. Students can set up individual appointments with Dr. Hillhouse for personalized guidance.

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