The Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Equivalency Examination (FPGEE) is a crucial step for foreign-educated pharmacists who wish to practice in the United States. Currently, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) offers the FPGEE only once a year, limiting opportunities for many qualified professionals.

The once-a-year schedule poses significant challenges for foreign pharmacists. Those unable to pass or sit for the exam due to unforeseen circumstances must wait an entire year before they can try again. This delay not only affects their career progression but also their financial stability, as many struggle to make ends meet while waiting for the next opportunity to secure their future in the U.S. pharmacy sector.

Increasing the frequency of the FPGEE to twice a year would greatly alleviate these burdens. It would provide more flexibility and accessibility for candidates, enabling them to better plan and prepare for the exam. Additionally, it would help to bridge the gap in the demand for qualified pharmacists, especially given the ongoing shortages in healthcare professionals across the country.

Moreover, offering the exam twice annually could attract more skilled international pharmacists, enhancing the diversity and expertise within the U.S. pharmacy workforce. This change could also lead to improved patient care and services as more pharmacists bring varied international experience and practices.

We urge the NABP to consider the needs of foreign-educated pharmacists and make the FPGEE available biannually. Doing so would demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and support for skilled professionals who wish to contribute to the pharmaceutical industry in the United States.

Please sign this petition to encourage the NABP to offer the FPGEE twice a year, enabling better opportunities for future pharmacists and enhancing the country's healthcare system.