Blade staff writer Rose Russell has received a print media award for excellence in reporting medication and pharmacy issues from the Ohio Pharmacists Association.

The award was presented during the Ohio Pharmacists Association's 134th annual conference, held last weekend at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

Ms. Russell was nominated for the award by Dr. Curtis Black, professor emeritus at the University of Toledo college of pharmacy, for her story "Packaging results -- Multi-dose adherence pharmacy program improves patient outcomes."

The Blade story, published on Jan. 23, was about a local pharmacist's drive to help patients take prescribed medications correctly.

The Akron Beacon Journal's Cheryl Powell also received a print media award during the association's luncheon.

Among others honored were Martin Davis of Sylvania, the former owner of the Pharmacy Counter, who was presented the association's Beal Award for his widespread contributions to pharmacy and health care.

Mimi Hart, the owner of Hart Pharmacy in Cincinnati, was the first woman to receive the Bowl of Hygeia Award, sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, a pharmaceutical firm, for her work in her community.

First Published April 27, 2012, 5:50 a.m.