ENS Renee Dye

Of course, I did the conventional pharmacy duties, such as inputting prescriptions, filling, and counseling. However, I was also able to participate in other activities that aren't typically available in your average retail setting. For example, I was able to sit in with the staff psychologist and contract psychiatrist when they held their psychological clinics to evaluate the inmates.

I was also able to do a couple of drug utilization reviews, which I then presented to the P & T Committee. Additionally, I was allowed to participate in a Hepatitis C class by giving a short presentation to inmates on the therapy and treatment of Hepatitis C.

As a PHS JRCOSTEP student, I decided to wear a uniform while working at FCI Florence. Although I did not receive any compensation for purchasing the uniforms, I felt it was necessary in order to be addressed professionally by the inmates and other staff members. Even as a female in an all-male prison, I never felt threatened or intimidated by the inmates. I was often in close quarters with the inmates, but typically, I wasn't alone with them, except maybe walking down the hallway.

I was well-trained and prepared by my preceptor to be in the setting. He was very helpful in letting me know what to do in an emergency, what I could and could not bring into the prison, and the general conduct to have with the inmates.

The medical staff at FCI Florence was great. Everybody was very helpful and patient with me while I was learning the ropes. They were an awesome group to work with for the summer. I would recommend this program to anybody who asked me about it. I had a great time and I learned a lot of things that you just wouldn't learn in a typical pharmacy setting. If I had it to do all over, I would definitely do it again. In fact, this experience has opened my eyes to a possible career with PHS.

If you want something new and exciting, this is a great place to find it!