AUG. 2008
Passing of the Gavel FPA President Norman Tomaka accepts the gavel from Past President Don Bergemann at the 118th Annual FPA Convention and Meeting
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florida PHARMACY TODAY Departments 4 Calendar 4 Advertisers 5 President’s Viewpoint 7 Executive Insight 18 Buyer’s Guide
VOL. 71 | NO. 8 AUGUST 2008 the official publication of the florida pharmacy association
Features
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New Technology Reveals Higher Number of New HIV Infections in the United States than Previously Known Americans Made Over 1,000,000,000 Hospital and Doctor Visits in 2006 Pharmacy Time Capsule
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FPA Calendar 2008-2009
August 23 - 24 FPA Committee and Council Meetings Hilton Orlando North Orlando, FL SEPTEMBER
December
October 11-15 NCPA Annual Conference Tampa, Florida 18-19 FPA Midyear Clinical Conference Sheraton Orlando North
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macy Association can communicate with
Christmas Holiday FPA Office Closed
the profession on advances in the sciences of pharmacy, socio-economic issues bearing on pharmacy and newsworthy items of interest
1 New Year's Day FPA Office Closed
to the profession. As a self-supported journal,
19 Martin Luther King's Birday FPA Office Closed
with its expressed mission.
31-2/1 FPA Law Conference Sandestin, Florida
of the Florida Pharmacy Today Board of Directors
FPA Committee and Council Meetings Hilton Orlando North Altamonte Springs Veteran's Day FPA Office Closed
For a complete calendar of events go to www.pharmview.com CE CREDITS (CE cycle) The Florida Board of Pharmacy requires 10 hours LIVE Continuing Education as part of the required 30 hours general education needed every license renewal period. Pharmacists should have satisfied all continuing education requirements for this biennial period by September 30, 2009 or prior to licensure renewal. *For Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Application, Exam Information and Study materials, please contact Ranada Simmons in the FPA office. For More Information on CE Programs or Events: Contact the Florida Pharmacy Association at (850) 222-2400 or visit our Web site at www.pharmview.com CONTACTS FPA — Michael Jackson (850) 222-2400 FSHP — Michael McQuone (850) 906-9333 U/F — Dan Robinson (352) 273-6240 FAMU — Otis Kirksey (850) 599-3301 NSU — Carsten Evans (954) 262-1300 DISCLAIMER Articles in this publication are designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter covered. This information is provided with the understanding that neither Florida Pharmacy Today nor the Florida Pharmacy Association are engaged in rendering legal or other professional services through this publication. If expert assistance or legal advice is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. The use of all medications or other pharmaceutical products should be used according to the recommendations of the manufacturers. Information provided by the maker of the product should always be consulted before use.
F lo r i da P h a r mac y T odaY
medium through which the Florida Phar-
January
27-28 Thanksgiving Holiday FPA Office Closed
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The Florida Pharmacy Today Journal is a peer reviewed journal which serves as a
November 1-2
of the Florida Pharmacy Today Journal
6-7 Law and Regulatory Conference, Hyatt at Sarasota Bay Sarasota, Florida
1 Labor Day - FPA Office Closed 20-21 FPA Clinical Consultant Conference Hyatt BonaventureWeston, Florida
Mission Statements:
it solicits and accepts advertising congruent
The mission of the Florida Pharmacy Today Board of Directors is to serve in an advisory capacity to the managing editor and executive editor of the Florida Pharmacy Today
Journal in the establishment and interpretation of the Journal’s policies and the management of the Journal’s fiscal responsibilities. The Board of Directors also serves to motivate the Florida Pharmacy Association members to secure appropriate advertising to assist the
Journal in its goal of self-support.
Advertisers DR. PATRICK OJO.............................................. 2 FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH....... 14 HAYSLIP & ZOST............................................. 14 Healthcare consultants..................... 3 Kahan ◆ SHIR, P.L......................................... 12 medical staffing...................................... 18 PHARMACY PROVIDER SERVICES (PPSC).......................................... 2 Rx RElief.......................................................... 14
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The President’s Viewpoint by Norman Tomaka FPA PRESIDENT
FPA Provides the Tools to Deal with Challenging Times
I
t is a pleasure today to begin service as president of the Florida Pharmacy Association. We are fortunate to be blessed with a common vision coupled with a strong willingness to succeed in serving patients that entrust their care to our hands, hearts and minds. In Florida, we have the privilege to work with competent and professionally passionate pharmacists nationally renown for innovative patient care. We prosper in an environment rich in diversity, abundant sunshine, fresh air and friendly neighbors. With all the attributes Florida’s pharmacists have, one resource required from our Association is “empowerment.” As we pharmacists continue to deliver measurable improvements in the quality of our service, FPA’s major challenge is to provide an effective, powerful advocacy for pharmacists in all practice arenas. Embracing a growing, productive role as the drug-therapy expert, Florida’s pharmacists need professional advocacy empowered by the numerous benefits of privileged membership in the FPA. Across the United States and Florida, the medical service environment is far from tranquil. The delivery of health care is enthralled in a heated debate over adequate patient access, government responsibility and staggering expenditures. While the insurance industry searches for a process that urgently encourages preventative health care, pharmacists stand by for duty as the healthcare professional best prepared to advocate for our patients. Society has realized that it can no longer afford not to employ the pharmacist to provide services that increase
accountability, reduce costs and improve patient’s lives. Our customers realize the danger they face if removed from the “expert personal care” delivered by a pharmacist during health and illness. Floridians are calling for change that allows them access to our skill and experiences and change that prevents shortsighted mandates that limit the benefits they trust us to provide. Throughout Florida, pharmacists meet this emerging challenge every day
The delivery of health care is enthralled in a heated debate over adequate patient access, government responsibility and staggering expenditures. by implementing new initiatives that embrace patient education and participation. The FPA is ready to empower its members to exceed expectations in providing cost-effective, patient-centered pro-active health care management. There is no doubt that pharmacists and their technicians, re-charged by a solid FPA information network, more readily integrate advances in healthcare delivery. Patients are asking for changes in drug therapy that will lead to a quality life. Pharmacists are best prepared to promote the cost-effective delivery
Norman Tomaka, 2008-09 FPA President
of drug therapy for their patients. Pharmacists are trained and ready to help Floridians to make improvements in their personal health and prevent disease complications. Yes! Pharmacists are ready to provide proven therapy management programs for our patients. Our pharmacy organization empowers members to lead the change. Medication management programs including the Hillsborough County “Diabetes Ten City Challenge” are exceeding expectations of employers and patients. Such new initiatives vindicate the emerging need for pharmacist-provided care to become more visible in all practice settings. As Chairman Don Bergemann announced: “We are out of the box!” Too often, patient care barriers exist because we have not collectively challenged them with education. Empowered by our Association, pharmacists will entice one another to train for a drug therapy delivery system that enAUGUST 2008
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2008/2009 FPA Board of Directors The Florida Pharmacy Association gratefully acknowledges the hard work and dedication of the following members of the FPA leadership who work deligently all year long on behalf of our members.
Don Bergemann......................................Chairman of the Board of Directors Norman Tomaka.........................................................................................FPA President Karen Whalen............................................................................................ President Elect Michael Moné...........................................................................................................Treasurer Suzanne Kelley.........................................Speaker of the House of Delegates Alexander Pytlarz......................................................................................Speaker Elect Preston McDonald............................................................................. Director Region 1 Marcus Dodd-o ..................................................................................Director Region 2 Al Tower, Director ..................................................................................................Region 3 Carmen Rosado, Director ................................................................................Region 4 John Noriega, Director ......................................................................................Region 5 Chris Lent Director................................................................................................Region 6 Kim Murray (Interim Director)....................................................................... Region 7 Joy Marcus............................................................................................Director Region 8 Ayala Fishel............................................................................................Director Region 9 Richard Montgomery.......................................................................... President FSHP Michael Jackson........................................Executive Vice President and CEO
Florida Pharmacy Today Journal Board Chairman............................................................ Dick Witas, witas@moffitt.usf.edu Treasurer....................Stephen Grabowski, sgrabowski@seniormmc.com Member.................................................Joseph Koptowsky, docjik1215@aol.com Secretary...................................................................Stuart Ulrich, Stuarx@aol.com Executive Editor................Michael Jackson, mjackson@pharmview.com Managing Editor...................Dave Fiore, dave@fiorecommunications.com
courages patients to access our expertise. The proof is ample – the patient is asking and pharmacists are ready to roll these changes out. This Florida Pharmacy Association will continue to provide dynamic practice tools exceeding emerging demands in patient care. Education programs involving new technologies revolving around disease-state management and preventative health care initiatives will promote professional success and re-invigorate our colleagues. This year’s Educational Affairs Council is gifted with a passion for excellence and innovation. Led by Carmen AcevesBlumenthal, members of the Council will be producing seminars that empower creative pharmacists to succeed in the hospital, community, managedcare, home-infusion, nursing-home, hospice and nuclear pharmacy. Empowered by collegiate management and professors from FAMU, NOVA, UF, PBA and LECOM, pharmacists will surpass current expectations in pro-actively managing the patient’s medication. Since change requires a strong foundation, the Organizational Affairs Council, chaired by “Fritz” Hayes, will empower new leaner governance within in our Association. Strengthened by a willingness to exercise a smaller internal structure, FPA is ready to change in every way needed to develop initiatives asked for by our members while remaining fiscally sound. Success in pharmacy centers on a positive public opinion. Undoubtedly, pharmacists are at our best when empowering improved health care for the patients we serve. Promoting community outreach, Ayala Fishel will lead the Public Affairs Council in advocating for initiatives that will highlight medication management by pharmacists throughout the state. In the next 12 months, we look forward to showcasing our competent dedication when conducting pharmacist health fairs in two prominent urban locations. I am honored to announce that these events will be directed by Bert Martinez in Miami and by Karen Bills at the Tallahassee Capitol. With a vigorous intention to serve our patients, we require savvy new adventures in professional practice. With so See Viewpoint, continued on page 9
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Executive Insight by michael jackson, RPhPresident and CEO By Michael Jackson, FPA Executive Vice
How Valuable is Your Membership?
A
s I was pondering this month’s article for the Florida Pharmacy Today, a series of events caused me to step back and bring to you a different message. I was going to share with you the wonderful things we discovered at this summer’s annual convention in Orlando and the exciting new initiatives waiting ahead for us during this leadership year. I also was going to tell you about the new FPA Web site that we are preparing to launch, the new robust advocacy program underway and new initiatives on Florida pharmacy technician requirements, but instead I felt compelled to share with you some interesting thoughts on membership in professional organizations. This all began with an encounter with a Florida pharmacist who called our office looking for answers to questions related to pharmacy practice issues. As many of you well know, the Florida Pharmacy Association has presented a number of pharmacy conferences related to clinical practice, pharmacy law, and health and wellness. We have amassed over the years a considerable amount of knowledge and understanding of health-related issues and have freely shared this with members who have reached out to us for ideas to resolve our profession’s daily challenges. While the Florida Board of Pharmacy has been exemplary in trying to help answer questions from pharmacists, there are limits to what they can do and say. Consider that there are over 24,000 pharmacists licensed in Florida. Most of those licensees have Florida addresses. Looking at the membership listing of the FPA and having some knowl-
edge of the membership of other state pharmacy organizations, I suspect that 20 percent would be high estimate on the number of Florida pharmacists who are members of any organization. This is troubling when you consider that the salaries of today’s pharmacists are routinely exceeding six figures and that the demand for our services has consistently been quite strong.
We have amassed over the years a considerable amount of knowledge and understanding of health-related issues and have freely shared this with members who have reached out to us for ideas to resolve our profession’s daily challenges. We are enjoying this status because your professional organizations have advocated on our behalf to make sure that only a pharmacist can do what we do. We also have worked to support laws that require facilities storing drugs or providing drug administrative services to retain a consultant pharmacist. Many of our members have taken advantage of this practice model and have diversified their professional careers. Even employee pharmacists have bene-
Michael Jackson
fited through our fights to prevent cuts in Medicaid and our collaboration with national organizations on such initiatives as electronic prescribing, immunization services and medication therapy management programs. Nearly 50 percent of the dues paid by FPA members go toward our advocacy programs. Another 20 percent is allocated to cover the cost of the production of this journal with the remaining used to support some overhead and program costs. Why am I sharing this with you? A recent telephone inquiry from a nonmember pharmacist may have a lot to do with this month’s article. It is routine for the FPA to receive calls from both member and nonmember pharmacists. While we do not turn away requests from anyone, we take special care to ensure that our members take priority on calls. Still, when nonmembers call, some of their questions can on occasion require a considerable amount AUGUST 2008
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FPA Staff Executive Vice President/CEO Michael Jackson (850) 222-2400, ext. 200
Director of Pharmacy Services Tian Merren, ext. 120 Director of Membership Gillian Nolden. ext. 110 Controller Wanda Hall , ext. 211 Pharmacy Services Admin. Asst. Ranada Simmons , ext. 121 Pharmacy Services Office Asst. Stacey Brooks , ext. 122 Communication Services Admin. Asst. Leroy Smith , ext. 220 Receptionist/Meeting Planner Catherine Walker , ext. 230 Florida Pharmacy Today Board Chairman................................................... Dick Witas, Odessa Treasurer...............................Stephen Grabowski, Tampa Secretary.........................Stuart Ulrich, Boynton Beach Executive Editor.........Michael Jackson, Tallahassee Managing Editor.........................Dave Fiore, Tallahassee Member..................................... Joseph Koptowsky, Miami
This is a peer reviewed publication. ©2008, FLORIDA PHARMACY JOURNAL, INC. ARTICLE ACCEPTANCE: The Florida Pharmacy Today is a publication that welcomes articles that have a direct pertinence to the current practice of pharmacy. All articles are subject to review by the Publication Review Committee, editors and other outside referees. Submitted articles are received with the understanding that they are not being considered by another publication. All articles become the property of the Florida Pharmacy Today and may not be published without written permission from both the author and the Florida Pharmacy Today. The Florida Pharmacy Association assumes no responsibility for the statements and opinions made by the authors to the Florida Pharmacy Today. The Journal of the Florida Pharmacy Association does not accept for publication articles or letters concerning religion, politics or any other subject the editors/ publishers deem unsuitable for the readership of this journal. In addition, The Journal does not accept advertising material from persons who are running for office in the association. The editors reserve the right to edit all materials submitted for publication. Letters and materials submitted for consideration for publication may be subject to review by the Editorial Review Board. FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY, Annual subscription - United States and foreign, Individual $36; Institution $70/year; $5.00 single copies. Florida residents add 7% sales tax. Florida Pharmacy Association
610 N. Adams St. • Tallahassee, FL 32301 850/222-2400 • FAX 850/561-6758 Web Address: http://www.pharmview.com 8 |
F lo r i da P h a r mac y T odaY
of time and research. On one particular call, I asked the pharmacist, after a fairly lengthy conversation, what they thought of our services. I was thankful to hear that the solutions that we provided where helpful and appreciated. When asked if they would consider membership in the Florida Pharmacy Association, imagine my dismay and disappointment when the response was, “No, I would never join your orga-
viable shouldn’t we also consider a similar investment in our profession? Of course those of you who are reading this article are card-carrying members of the Florida Pharmacy Association, and for that your fellow colleagues and FPA leadership salute your commitment and support. As practicing pharmacists, we talk to colleagues each day discussing pharmacy issues. It is highly possible that the pharmacist you chat
If you are an active member of FPA’s #1 Club and you plan to attend convention each year your registration fees are waived if you qualify. This is like a full rebate on your membership fees with $$$ to spare. nization.” (The FPA is not Michael Jackson’s organization but a professional society of pharmacists, technicians and others with an interest in our profession. These dues-paying members are the true owners of the Florida Pharmacy Association.) While one may raise concern over the cost of membership in their professional organization keep in mind that the annual membership fees for the FPA are less than 2 standard size bottles of water per week. As a member if you take advantage of our services such as reduced rates for our continuing education programs and other member services your FPA member fees are negligible. If you are an active member of FPA’s #1 Club and you plan to attend convention each year your registration fees are waived if you qualify. This is like a full rebate on your membership fees with $$$ to spare. If we are willing to spend $20 to $50 monthly in health club membership to keep our bodies strong and
with today either has not been a member of the Florida Pharmacy Association or has never been a member of any professional organization. Invite them to consider an investment in their profession and support an organization that is working to keep pharmacy viable. We can make it easy for you. If a pharmacist is interested, call us at (850) 222-2400 or send us an e-mail at fpa@pharmview. com and we will do the rest. n
JOIN TODAY!
Florida Pharmacy Association
Viewpoint, continued from page 6
many prominent practitioners in our communities, we will harness their talent and maximize their triumphant success. Todd Rosen, chairman of the Professional Affairs Council is destined to lead the Association to empower a new brand of pharmacy practice. The Council’s continued development of therapy management will help foster changes in health care delivery for Floridians while lifting the bar of expectations for pharmacist-provided care. As we peer through 2008 into 2009, we see a nation conducting a presidential election and our state facing crucial decisions. There is no doubt that Pharmacy will encounter economic hurdles. With our arrival as a powerful player in the evolving healthcare arena, pharmacists have begun to recognize the reality of Florida’s political scenery. In order to promote preventative, cost-effective care, Florida needs no further proof than the State’s current fiscal challenge. Alex Pytlarz and the Legislative
Committee of FPA will provide the ammunition necessary to fight for meaningful changes in regulations while
As empowered, unified pharmacists aware of the limitations of government, we will demand regulatory fairness. educating elected representatives. As empowered, unified pharmacists aware of the limitations of government, we will demand regulatory fairness. We will continue to work with our good
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friends at FSHP in developing a concurrent platform that empowers pharmacists to maximize the benefit of their skills in all practice areas. That goal remains this Association’s prominent form of professional advocacy. We will not blink as we look into the eye of a more challenging political environment. Yes, our Association is equipped with a leadership team designed to succeed. The means that success is found in motivation. But, how will we make our message meaningful for Florida’s practicing pharmacists? I propose an idea suggested by our motivator, FPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Jackson. Pharmacist “town-hall” meetings conducted throughout Florida will empower the Association to rally our colleagues. Pharmacists from a variety of practice sites will be invited to attend education programs packed with information about FPA member benefits. Through these strategically scheduled events, FPA will reach pharmacists
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in a hospice in Palatka, the drugstore in Perrine and the specialty compounding pharmacy in Winter Park. From the infusion pharmacy in Sebring to the level one trauma hospital in Jacksonville, we will empower pharmacists with new technology now available to deliver a savvy style of medication therapy management. As we meet with pharmacists from Okaloosa County to Fort Myers, then Tampa across to Orlando and Melbourne, your FPA staff and leadership will empower our colleagues to make a difference in their communities. I predict numerous tangible benefits as a result for the Association when we share proven practices and concepts gathered from the profession’s most applauded performers. Our vision has been consistently clear since we adopted in August of 2003 the following mission statement: “FPA will remain as the premier state pharmacy organization!” Empowered by the finest schools of pharmacy in the
nation, FPA will build upon a strong state network that represents a unified voice on behalf of quality pharmaceuti-
Empowered by the finest schools of pharmacy in the nation, FPA will build upon a strong state network that represents a unified voice on behalf of quality pharmaceutical care.
dependent pharmacy owners, we will embrace changes that promote quality health care that allow pharmacy services to become more accessible for all our neighbors. To ignite this mission, FPA will continue to provide exceptional educational programs coupled with political advocacy designed to advance the practice of pharmacy. There is no doubt that Pharmacy will exceed the expectations of today’s health care consumer. I pray for encouraged leadership and graciously thank you for the honor of beginning a term as president of the Florida Pharmacy Association. Today, I am empowered! Thank you! n
cal care. Our Association will be motivated by innovative professors like FPA President-Elect Karen Daniel Whalen. Together, with successful corporate officers and emerging successful in-
Are you “In the Loop?” Don’t miss the next issue of the all-new StatNews, the FPA’s official e-mail newsletter. Open it. Read it. Know it. StatNews is a member service of the Florida Pharmacy Association. For membership information, contact gnolden@pharmview.com or call 850222-2400 and ask for Gillian.
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Coming Next Month
in the September Issue of Florida Pharmacy Today: Recap of the 118th Annual Convention and Meeting, including photos and award winners.
Look for it in your mailbox.
New Technology Reveals Higher Number of New HIV Infections in the United States than Previously Known The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced recently that an estimated 56,300 HIV infections occurred in the United States in 2006. That estimate differs from the agency’s previous estimate of 40,000 because CDC is now using a more precise method for estimating annual HIV incidence, which is the number of individuals who become newly infected with HIV in a given year. The new estimate is published today in a special HIV/AIDS issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, released at the XVII International AIDS Conference in Mexico City.
“These data, which are based on new laboratory technology developed by CDC, provide the clearest picture to date of the U.S. HIV epidemic, and unfortunately we are far from winning the battle against this preventable disease,” said CDC Director Dr. Julie Gerberding. “We as a nation have to come 12
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together to focus our efforts on expanding the prevention programs we know are effective.” The new estimate is derived from the first national surveillance system of its kind that is based on direct measurement of new HIV infections and builds on a new laboratory test (the BED HIV-
1 Capture Enzyme Immunoassay) that can distinguish recent from long-standing HIV infections. CDC′s prior annual HIV incidence estimate was based on indirect and less precise methods available at the time. A separate CDC historical trend analysis published as part of today′s study suggests that the number of new infections was likely never as low as the previous estimate of 40,000 and has been roughly stable overall since the late 1990s. “It′s important to note that the new estimate does not represent an actual increase in the number of new infections, but reflects our ability to more precisely measure HIV incidence and secure a better understanding of the epidemic,” said Kevin Fenton, M.D., director of CDC′s National Center for HIV/ AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention. “This new picture reveals that the HIV epidemic is – and has been – worse than previously known and underscores the challenges in confronting this disease.”
Burden Greatest Among Gay and Bisexual Men of All Races and African Americans CDC′s new surveillance system also provides more precise estimates than previously possible of new infections in specific populations. Results confirm that the impact of HIV remains greatest among gay and bisexual men of all races and among African American men and women. In 2006, men who have sex with men (MSM) accounted for 53 percent of those with new infections (28,700), heterosexuals for 31 percent (16,800), and injection drug users (IDU) for 12 percent (6,600). Infection rates among blacks were 7 times as high as whites (83.7/100,000 people versus 11.5/100,000) and almost 3 times as high as Hispanics (29.3/100,000 people), a group that was also disproportionately affected. “Too many Americans continue to be affected by this disease,” stressed Fenton. “These new findings emphasize the importance of reaching all HIVinfected individuals and those at risk with effective prevention programs.” Separate Trend Analysis Sheds New Light on History of U.S. Epidemic In addition to the 2006 HIV incidence estimates, CDC conducted a separate, historical analysis that provides new insight into HIV incidence trends over time – overall and for specific populations. Results confirm dramatic declines in the number of new HIV infections from a peak of about 130,000 in the mid-1980s to a low of roughly 50,000 annual infections in the early 1990s. However, findings also indicate that new infections increased in the late 1990s, but have remained roughly stable since that time (with estimates rang-
Infection rates among blacks were 7 times as high as whites (83.7/100,000 people versus 11.5/100,000) and almost 3 times as high as Hispanics (29.3/100,000 people), a group that was also disproportionately affected. ing between 55,000 and 58,500 during the three most recent time periods analyzed). “Prevention can and does work when we apply what we know,” said Richard Wolitski, Ph.D., acting director of CDC′s Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention. “While the level of HIV incidence is alarming, stability in recent years suggests that prevention efforts are having an impact. In this decade, more people are living with HIV and living longer than ever before due to advances in treatment. Even though this could mean more opportunities for transmission, the number of new infections has not increased overall. ” The analysis revealed some other encouraging signs of progress as well as significant challenges among specific groups. Findings indicated reductions in new infections among both injecting drug users and heterosexuals over time. Yet, the findings also indicate that HIV incidence has been steadily increasing among gay and bisexual men since the early 1990s, confirming a trend suggested by other data showing increases in risk behavior, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV diagnoses in this population throughout the past decade. The analysis also found that new infections among blacks are at a higher level than any other racial or ethnic group, though they have been roughly stable, with some fluctuation, since the early 1990s. “These data confirm the critical need
to revitalize prevention efforts for gay and bisexual men of all races and to build upon the growing momentum in the African American and Hispanic communities to confront HIV,” said Wolitski. “We must all remember that we are dealing with one of the most insidious infectious diseases in history. Reducing this threat will require action from everyone – individuals at risk, community leaders, government agencies and the private sector.” For more information on HIV prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/hiv or www.aids.gov.
H MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize volunteers-medical professionals and
others-who want to donate their time and expertise to augment public health activities throughout the year and to prepare for and respond to emergencies. MRC volunteers become part of a system to supplement existing local emergency and public health resources.
H MRC volunteers include health care professionals such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, and
epidemiologists. Other community members such as interpreters, chaplains, office workers, and legal advisors can fill other vital support positions.
MRC Can Enhance Public Health By:
MRC Emergency Preparedness Volunteers:
H Supplementing public health preparedness & response H Improving health literacy H Eliminating health disparities H Enhancing public health preparedness H Helping at community health events
H Bolster public health and emergency response
infrastructures by providing supplemental personnel
H Train with local emergency response partners H Enable communities to meet specific health needs
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Americans Made Over 1,000,000,000 Hospital and Doctor Visits in 2006 Patients in the United States made an estimated 1.1 billion visits to physician offices and hospital outpatient and emergency departments in 2006, an average of four visits per person per year, according to new health care statistics released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data come from various components of CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics National Health Care Survey and are featured in a series of new National Health Statistics Reports. Some of the findings include:
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The number of visits to physician offices and hospital outpatient and emergency departments increased by 26 percent from 1996 to 2006, faster than the growth of the U.S. population, which rose by 11 percent. The rise in visits can be linked to both the aging of the population, as older people have higher visit rates than younger people in general.
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In 2006, seven out of 10 visits had at least one medication provided, prescribed, or continued, for a total of 2.6 billion medications overall. Analgesics (pain relievers) were the most common, accounting for 13.6 percent of all drugs prescribed, and were most often used during primary care and emergency department visits.
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The emergency department served as the route of admission to hospital inpatient services for roughly 50 percent of non-obstetric hospital patients in 2006, up from 36 percent in 1996.
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Patients with Medicaid use the emergency department more frequently than patients with private insurance – 82 per 100 persons for Medicaid vs. 21 per 100 for private insurance.
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Most emergency department visits occurred after business hours (defined as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays), when 63 percent of adults and 73 percent of children younger than age 15 arrived.
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The overall average waiting time to see a physician in the Emergency Department was nearly 56 minutes.
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Over the past 36 years, the percent of hospital inpatients who were 65 years of age and older grew from 20 percent in 1970 to 38 percent in 2006. Over the same time period, the percent of inpatients who were 75 years of age and older grew from 9 percent to over 24 percent.
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The rate of knee replacement for those aged 65 years old and over increased 46 percent between 2000 and 2006, and the rate doubled among those aged 45-64 years during the same time period.
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The rate of coronary atherosclerosis (clogged heart arteries) more than doubled during the 1990s but since 2002 declined for all age groups, particularly for those 65 years and over.
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Between 1996 and 2006, the percentage of visits to hospital outpatient departments made by adults 18 years and over with chronic diabetes increased by 43 percent and visits with chronic high blood pressure increased by 51 percent.
Source: CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics
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Pharmacy Time Capsule 2008 1983 ■■
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Twenty-five years ago Sodium cellulose phosphate, former orphan drug, cleared for user in painful stone formation in patients with absorptive hypercalciuria. Accutane (isotretinoin) approved as an anti-acne agent.
1933 ■■
Seventy-five years ago Average weekly salary for a pharmacist (48 Hour week) was $33.08.
1958
1908
Fifty years ago Pharmacist salaries in NY were reported to be $3.50/hour while in California they were $4.00 hourly.
One hundred years ago University of Mississippi initiates classes in its new college of pharmacy
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By: Dennis B. Worthen Lloyd Scholar, Lloyd Library and Museum, Cincinnati, OH One of a series contributed by the American Institute of the History of Pharmacy, a unique non-profit society dedicated to assuring that the contributions of your profession endure as a part of America’s history. Membership offers the satisfaction of helping continue this work on behalf of pharmacy, and brings five or more historical publications to your door each year. To learn more, check out: www.aihp.org
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MEMBERSHIP MATTERS! Email/Fax Network Hotline Receive up-to-date and up-to-the-minute information on Legislative Developments, Board of Pharmacy changes and other topics affecting the profession of pharmacy. Call FPA Member Services at (850) 222-2400 ext. 110 – gnolden@ pharmview.com.
Florida Pharmacy Association In keeping with a tradition of offering our members real benefits, the Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA) is proud to announce the introduction of sponsored Discount Benefits Program. These vendors are dedicated to providing an excellent value to all FPA members and associates. To take advantage of benefits contact the vendors directly at the numbers listed below and identify yourself as a FPA member and have your membership ID number handy.
Tax Resource Provides defense and protection of your assets when you are audited. Tax Resource will defend their clients for any income tax audit, Federal or State, for any tax year. Tax Resource pioneered the tax audit service business, and is the largest audit defense firm in the United States. Call (800) 92-AUDIT (800-922-8348). Atlantic Coupon Redemption Center Receive payment in 25 working days of coupon’s face value plus a rebate of 1/6 cents based on store volume. Call Meredith McCord (800) 223-0398. Florida Commerce Federal Credit Union The chief objective of a credit union is not generating profits for stockholders, but to provide service to its member. The members benefit by getting attractive returns on savings, loans made at fair rates of interest plus enhanced and expanded services. This is probably one of the best deals around. Call (850) 488-0035. Collection Services For past due accounts call I. C. System, Inc. Call (800) 328-9595. Bank of America Platinum Mastercard Quality for FPA’s Platinum MasterCard with no annual fee and low interest rates, offered through MBNA. Call FPA Member Services at (850) 222-2400.
Other Member Benefits Discounted Continuing Education
Programs Monthly Issues of the Florida Phar-
macy Today Journal Discounts to Florida Attractions—
Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, etc.—contact the FPA office. ITC Deltacom Offering FPA members exclusive association discounts on telecommunication services including local services, long distance, data networks, telephone systems and dedicated internet access. Call 850701-3200 or visit www.itcdeltacom.com Pharmacy Resource Materials FPA provides the most recent and relevant resources necessary to meet your pharmacy’s law and regulation needs. This includes the Florida Pharmacy Law & Information Manual, Continuous Quality Improvement Manual, Controlled Substance Inventory Booklets and Pharmacy Signs. Please call FPA Members Services for more information: 850222-2400 ext. 110. FPA Website Visit our FPA Website at ww.pharmview. com. The site, launched in December 2004, includes a members only section. The website offers a secure server so that you can registers for CE programs, renew your membership or purchase resources materials with your credit card.
Buyer’s Guide florida PHARMACY TODAY
ADVERTISERS: This is a special section designed to give your company more exposure and to act as an easy reference for the pharmacist.
Support Our Advertisers! Use the “Buyer’s Guide” PHARMACY RESOURCES
PHarmaceutical WHOLESALER
PPSC Retail Pharmacy Purchasing Program (888) 778-9909
McKesson Drug Company Jim Springer (800) 804-4590 FAX: (863) 616-2953
PHARMACY CONSULTANTS HCC Pharmacy Business Solutions Bob Miller (800) 642-1652 Hayslip and Zost Pharmacy Brokers LLC (713) 829-7570 (727) 415-3659
TEMPORARY PHARMACISTs – STAFFING HealthCare Consultants Pharmacy Staffing Bob Miller (800) 642-1652 Medical Staffing Network (800) 359-1234
INSURANCE Meadowbrook Workers Comp Insurance Endorsed by FPA (800) 825-9489
Rx Relief (800) RXRELIEF PharmacyMax Inc. Professional Staffing Solutions (800) 889-8737
LEGAL ASSISTANCE Kahan ◆ Shir, P.L. Brian A. Kahan, R.Ph., and Attorney at Law (561) 999-5999 Kenneth J. Metzger Attorney at Law (850) 681-0847
FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS AHCA MEDICAID PHARMACY SERVICES 2727 Mahan Drive Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 487-4441 www.fdhc.state.fl.us/medicaid/ pharmacy AMERICAN PHARMACISTS ASSOCIATION (APhA) Washington, D.C. (800) 237-2742 www.aphanet.org AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEALTH SYSTEM PHARMACISTS Bethesda, MD (301) 657-3000 www.ashp.com/main.htm Drug Information Center Palm Beach Atlantic University (561) 803-2728 druginfocenter@pba.edu DRUG INFORMATION CENTER Florida A&M University College of Pharmacy (800) 451-3181 UF College of Pharmacy Gainesville, FL (352) 395-0408 www.cop.ufl.edu/vdis FLORIDA BOARD OF PHARMACY 4052 Bald Cypress Way Bin #C04 Tallahassee, FL 32399-3254 (850) 245-4292 www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa FLORIDA POISON INFORMATION CENTER NETWORK 1-800-282-3171 http://ora.umc.ufl.edu/ pcc/fpicjax.htm National Community Pharmacists Association 100 Daingerfield Road Alexandria, VA 22314 703.683.8200 703.683.3619 fax info@ncpanet.org
Advertising in Florida Pharmacy Today Display Advertising: please call (850) 264-5111 for a media kit and rate sheet. Buyers’ Guide: A signed insertion of at least 3X per year, 1/3 page or larger display ad, earns a placement in the Buyers’ Guide. A screened ad is furnished at additional cost to the advertiser. Professional Referral Ads: FPA Members: $50 per 50 words; Non‑members: $100 per 50 words; No discounts for advertising agencies. All Professional Referral ads must be paid in advance, at the time of ad receipt. 18
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Recovering Pharmacists Network of Florida (407) 257-6606 “Pharmacists Helping Pharmacists”