October is American Pharmacists Month and the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo’s Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy (DKICP) is helping shine a light on the vital role pharmacists play in public health. The pharmacy school is now accepting applications for a new online degree program called PharmD-XO, designed for aspiring pharmacists who need flexibility.
The first cohort starts in January 2026. It is a track towards earning a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. The program is built for working adults and off- island and out-of-state residents. Students can stay in their jobs and communities while earning the degree.
“As we address the physician shortage affecting rural communities nationwide, pharmacists trained to practice at the full scope of their license can provide vital healthcare services where they’re needed most,” said Rae Matsumoto, dean at DKICP.
Pharmacists fill critical healthcare gaps
The need is clear. National data show physician shortages are intensifying with 20% of Americans living in rural areas and only 10% of physicians practicing there. Nearly 90% of Americans live within 5 miles of a pharmacy, making pharmacists the most accessible healthcare providers.
The college recently earned an eight-year accreditation renewal from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Building on that momentum, the PharmD-XO program spans 5.5 years. Most learning happens online. Students come to Hilo once a year for a two- to four-week immersion during the first 4.5 years. Those visits focus on labs, team skills, and hands-on training. The final year is all clinical experience at pharmacy practice sites.
Learn more on the college’s website, email pharmacy@hawaii.edu, or call (808) 932-7704.
