R.I. Statehouse to become healthier place
thanks to URI's College of Pharmacy

University's Pharmacy Outreach Program to hold
Health Fair March 29

KINGSTON, R.I. -- March 21, 2000 -- It's no secret that debates in the Rhode Island State House often get people's blood boiling and their hearts racing. However, on Wednesday, March 29 from 1 to 5 p.m., the Statehouse will become a healthier place thanks to the University of Rhode Island's Pharmacy Outreach Program.

URI pharmacists and doctor of pharmacy students will conduct the first State House Health Fair in the Statehouse Rotunda. Legislators, members of the executive branch, and staff workers will be able to experience what URI's Pharmacy Outreach programs offer to 8,000 Rhode Islanders each year.

The pharmacists and students will conduct blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings, and provide information on prescription drugs and natural herb remedies. They will also be available for medical and health consultations.

"We're doing this to show the legislators the scope of URI's programs in the fields of health maintenance and health education," said Bill Beaulieu, URI pharmacy faculty member and coordinator of the event. "We are very proud of the services the University offers. We wanted to bring them directly to the people who play such a pivotal role in making sure our state has the finest in health care.

"The thousands of people we serve through our Medication Information Hotline, internationally known Brown Bag Prescription Program for the Elderly and our Medication for the Needy program are well aware of the excellence of URI's pharmacy programs. We also want to make sure our legislators are familiar with the breadth and importance of these programs in the health of many of our residents."

For further information, call 1-800-215-9001 or log on to the website at www.uri.edu/pharmacy/outreach/index.

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For Further Information: Dave Lavallee 401-874-2116