August 2009 Florida Pharmacy Journal by Florida Pharmacy Today

AUG. 2009

How Does Your Hospital Compare?

THE WALKWAY OF RECOGNITION

FPA OFFICE

YOUR NAME HERE

Have you been searching for just the right gift or thought of placing your name in perpetuity? If so, then consider purchasing an engraved brick for you or someone else. The main sidewalk at the Florida Pharmacy Association needs replacing. The Florida Pharmacy Foundation has undertaken the project to repair and beautify the sidewalk with engraved personal bricks purchased by pharmacists or friends of pharmacy. Engraved 4x8 bricks can be purchased for $250.00 each with the donor’s name engraved (3 lines available) or you could also purchase an engraved brick for someone you feel should be honored or remembered. The monies earned from this project will be used to fulfill the goals and future of the Foundation. There are a limited number of bricks available – so, it is first come first served.

ORDER FORM

The Walkway of Recognition

❑ YES, I want to order _______ concrete brick/s at $250.00 each. (Please copy form for additional inscriptions). PL E A S E P R INT I NSC RIP TION

The concrete bricks are 4x8 and can be engraved with up to 14 characters per line, three lines available, spaces and punctuation count as one character. Please find enclosed my check for $_________ for _________ bricks. PLEASE PRINT: Please charge my

❑ Master Card

CARD #

Contributions to the Florida Pharmacy Foundation are tax deductible as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes. Consult your CPA for complete details. Fed Emp. I.D. #59-2190074

❑ Visa EXP. DATE

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE NAME ADDRESS CITY

STATE

PHONE (W)

(H)

Send to Florida Pharmacy Foundation, 610 N. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301, or fax to (850) 561-6758.

ZIP

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

florida PHARMACY TODAY Departments 4 Calendar 4 Advertisers 5 President’s Viewpoint 7 Executive Insight 16 Buyer’s Guide

VOL. 72 | NO. 8 AUGUST 2009 the official publication of the florida pharmacy association

Features

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New Ratings For America’s Hospitals Now Available On Hospital Compare Web Site Preventing Weight Gain

Setting the Pace with PACCE!

AUGUST 2009

FPA Calendar 2009

November

August 29-30 FPA Committee and Council Meetings Orlando September 7 Labor Day, FPA Office closed 12-13 Law and Regulatory Conference Hyatt Regency Bonaventure, Weston, Florida 20 - 27 Florida Pharmacy Association CE at SEA Port of Canaveral, Florida OCTOber 10-11 FPA Midyear Clinical Conference Nuclear Recertification Conference Sheraton Orlando North Orlando

7-8 TENTATIVE - FPA Committee and Council Meetings Marriott Orlando Downtown 13-14 NASPA Fall Symposium Naples, Florida 17-20 ASCP Senior Care Pharmacy Meeting Anaheim, California 26-27 Thanksgiving, FPA Office closed December 5-6 Sarasota Law Conference Hyatt Regency at Sarasota Bay 6-10

ASHP Midyear Regional Conference Las Vegas, NV

24-25 Christmas Holiday FPA Office Closed

13-14 Board of Pharmacy Meeting Tallahassee 17-21 NCPA Annual Meeting New Orleans, LA

Mission Statements: of the Florida Pharmacy Today Journal The Florida Pharmacy Today Journal is a peer reviewed journal which serves as a medium through which the Florida Pharmacy Association can communicate with the profession on advances in the sciences of pharmacy, socio-economic issues bearing on pharmacy and newsworthy items of interest to the profession. As a self-supported journal, it solicits and accepts advertising congruent with its expressed mission.

of the Florida Pharmacy Today Board of Directors 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

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 — Leola Cleveland (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.

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to secure appropriate advertising to assist the

Journal in its goal of self-support.

Advertisers Healthcare consultants..................... 3 Kahan ◆ SHIR, P.L......................................... 11 MEDICAL STAFFING...................................... 12 PHARMACY PROVIDER SERVICES (PPSC)........................................ 11 Rx RElief.......................................................... 11

E-mail your suggestions/ideas to dave@fiorecommunications.com

The President’s Viewpoint KAREN WHALEN, FPA President

Collaboration is Key NOTE: The following is a transcript of Karen Whalen’s presidential address to the membership of the Florida Pharmacy Association at the 119th Annual Meeting and Convention in St. Augustine. It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the new President of the Florida Pharmacy Association. As your President, it is my duty to guide the organization effectively through the 20092010 year, and I am humbled by the responsibility with which you have entrusted me. As I began to prepare for my year as President, I turned to the principles of Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In his international bestseller, Covey advises us to always, “Begin with the end in mind.” He states that, “If the ladder is not leaning against the right wall, every step we take just gets us to the wrong place faster.” With those words in mind, the leadership of the FPA met in May to review the mission and vision of our Association to make sure we were heading in the right direction to best meet the needs of our members in the coming years. What came out of that leadership retreat were brand new mission and vision statements. These items are pending final approval from the Board of Directors, but it gives me great pride to introduce them to you. The mission of the FPA is as follows: Florida Pharmacy Association is the professional society representing Florida pharmacists, united to improve public health and patient care, enhance professional development and advocate for the interests of the profession. The Associ-

ation is organized to preserve and advance the practice of pharmacy and to serve the professional needs of all pharmacists, pharmacy students, and pharmacy technicians.

The vision of the FPA: To be the premier organization representing pharmacy stakeholders in their endeavors to provide quality healthcare. Covey also reminds us to, “Put first things first.” To help the Association “put first things first,” the leadership devised a strategic plan with four key

The FPA has set the goal of increasing membership by 5-10 percent annually. elements. Within each of the key elements are priority projects designed to allow the organization to strive toward our new vision. Following is a brief overview of the four strategic issues and associated priority projects: Strategic Issue #1 – Membership Services, Recruitment & Retention The FPA has set the goal of increasing membership by 5-10 percent annually. The Association will also aim to improve and maintain the retention rate of current members to 90 percent. To achieve this, we must provide highquality services that satisfy the needs of our members. The priority project for this area is to develop marketing plans for members, non-members, students, and recent graduates.

Karen Whalen, 2009-2010 FPA President

Strategic Issue #2 – Public Policy, Politics, and Advocacy In this area, the FPA will endeavor to be the most effective, proactive, and powerful pharmacy advocacy group in Florida. While the Association has a successful grassroots network, we need to strengthen and solidify this network by establishing a formal framework and communication infrastructure. The priority project for Strategic Issue #2 is to identify at least one key pharmacist per state legislative district, and have them conduct face-to-face visits with legislators in their home office. Strategic Issue #3 – The Transitioning Role of the Profession Goals in this area include the following: (1) Expansion of the number and types of quality healthcare services provided to patients by pharmacist members; and (2) An increase in the number of Florida pharmacists who are recognized and paid for providing quality patient care services above and AUGUST 2009

2009/2010 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.

Norman Tomaka.....................................Chairman of the Board of Directors Karen Whalen...............................................................................................FPA President Don Bergemann.....................................................................................................Treasurer Alexander Pytlarz..................................Speaker of the House of Delegates Dean William Riffee...................Vice 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 Raul N. Correa, Interim Director ................................................................Region 4 John Noriega, Director ......................................................................................Region 5 Chris Lent, Director...............................................................................................Region 6 Kim Murray, 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 Treasurer....................Stephen Grabowski, sgrabowski@seniormmc.com Secretary...................................................................Stuart Ulrich, Stuarx@aol.com Member.......................................................... Betty Harris, beejpharm@gmail.com Member.................................................Joseph Koptowsky, docjik1215@aol.com Member...............................................Jennifer Pytlarz, jlc_rxdoc@hotmail.com Executive Editor................Michael Jackson, mjackson@pharmview.com Managing Editor...................Dave Fiore, dave@fiorecommunications.com

beyond dispensing. The priority project for this area is to identify and connect a network of pharmacists being paid for patient care services with other pharmacists willing to provide the services. Strategic Issue #4 – Financial Viability of the Association Even our own Association has not escaped the effects of the current recession. We have had to implement some cost-conscious decisions with regard to staffing in the office, watched our reserves diminish as the stock market declined, and faced challenges with membership as people are more reluctant to spend disposable income on association membership in a bad economy. To maintain financial viability, the Association needs to identify and develop potential sources of revenue other than membership monies. The priority project in this area is to facilitate a thinktank meeting to identify other possible viable sources of non-dues revenue. In the strategic plan, the leadership has outlined a number of remarkable goals and projects, but the leadership alone can’t accomplish these things. In Covey’s terminology, we need to “synergize” to accomplish our objectives. In other words, two heads are better than one and collaboration is key to achieving these goals. So, who are our key collaborators? Clearly, the councils and committees are crucial to the success of our mission. I am proud to introduce the leadership of each of the councils and committees. Organizational Affairs The Chair of the Organizational Affairs Council is Kim Murray. Kim and her council will work on development of the marketing plans for recruitment and retention as outlined in Strategic Issue #1. Organizational Affairs will also be reviewing a compilation of data from last year’s Organizational Enhancement Survey and conducting on-line satisfaction surveys with our student members. On the basis of this information, Organizational Affairs will make recommendations on how the FPA can better meet the needs of its members. See “Viewpoint”, continued on page 8

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Executive Insight By Michael Jackson, FPA Executive by michael jackson, Vice RPh President/CEO

Florida Recognizes New Pharmacy Title

he FPA House of Delegates debated some interesting issues this summer. One item of interest was a discussion on the proper designation of practicing pharmacists. This issue was brought to the House by the Leon County Pharmacy Association and presented by FPA Past President Jim Powers and FPA’s EVP Michael Jackson. Most of us use “RPh,” which is the shortened terminology for “Registered Pharmacist.” You would be amazed to learn that this label is actually an outdated phrase for how pharmacists used to be titled. To understand this, let’s go back in time to when RPh had a viable meaning. A register is an official record, often in the form of a list. Years ago, in order to practice pharmacy your name had to somehow appear on this special register. This may not necessarily mean that achieving registry status required the passing of a test. This perhaps could be the reason why we have become accustomed to using RPh as a suffix to our name when applying a signature on a professional document. This is likely to be part of a similar identifying mark for pharmacy technicians when the registry requirements begin in October of this year (see FPA Web site for more information). Individuals wishing to take on the role of a pharmacy technician in Florida will need to begin “registering” or getting onto a Board of Pharmacy list. Initially, technicians can get on this list by either completing a Board-approved training program, passing a certification examination recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), or working under a licensed pharmacist for 1,500 hours. Beyond the grandfather period, which ends on December 31, 2010, technicians will need

to simply complete a Board-approved training program. It is likely that technicians will take on the suffix “RPT,” or registered pharmacy technician. Since the “RPh” label is somewhat dated, how should pharmacists code their credentials on official health care documents? Consider that physicians use either “MD” for medical doctor

Most of us use “RPh,” which is the shortened terminology for “Registered Pharmacist.” You would be amazed to learn that this label is actually an outdated phrase for how pharmacists used to be titled. or “DO” for doctor of osteopathy.” If a pharmacist were to use the more appropriate suffix tag line, the designation that is relevant today would be “LPh” or licensed pharmacists. Members attending the FPA convention this summer preferred a different designation related more to the degree credential rather than the licensure credential. It is fairly common for those who have graduated within the last 20 years or so to apply “PharmD” as a suffix to their name. The question that needs answering is what suffix other than “RPh” should those practicing pharmacists use who did not graduate with the doctor of pharmacy degree? The FPA House of Delegates has fully endorsed the term “BPharm” for bachelor of pharmacy. It is important for our members to know and understand that the profession of pharmacy in Florida has transitioned over the years and that

Michael Jackson, BPharm

the Association has a desire to recognize Florida pharmacists in a manner consistent with how it is done in national peer-reviewed professional publications today. We recognize that change can be difficult, however, we can all begin to accept this new descriptive term. We hope that you will acknowledge this new paradigm and apply it in your daily life. Yes, some may suggest that by dropping the descriptor “RPh” it may call into question whether or not a pharmacist is licensed by a state agency. My response to that is that very few of us use the suffix “LD” or licensed driver after our name when we successfully pass the written and practical road test for the privilege of operating a motor vehicle on the highways. Please join with me in this newly recognized designation and sign your documents with “BPharm” or “PharmD” where appropriate. Delegates from throughout Florida have unanimously endorsed this new concept at the 119th annual meeting and convention in St. Augustine, Florida. n AUGUST 2009

FPA Staff Executive Vice President/CEO Michael Jackson (850) 222-2400, ext. 200 Director of Continuing Education Tian Merren-Owens, ext. 120 Controller Wanda Hall , ext. 211 Membership Coordinator Ranada Simmons , ext. 110 Educational Services Office Assistant Stacey Brooks , ext. 210

"Viewpoint" continued from page 7

Public Affairs The Public Affairs Council, under the direction of Kathy Petsos, is charged with creating a timeline of significant accomplishments the Association has achieved since its inception. After constructing the timeline, Public Affairs will collaborate with Organizational Affairs and utilize the timeline in designing membership recruitment and retention tools. As they have done in previous years, Public Affairs will

Educational Affairs Carol Motycka will lead the Educational Affairs Council. Under Carol’s direction, Educational Affairs will continue to design educational programs in the area of innovative quality pharmacy services. For the first time this year, we are privileged to have a pharmacy technician educator, Gail Brown, on the council. Educational Affairs will be utilizing her talents to better meet the needs of our technician members.

Florida Pharmacy Today Board Treasurer...............................Stephen Grabowski, Tampa Secretary.........................Stuart Ulrich, Boynton Beach Member...........................Betty Harris, Lighthouse Point Member..................................... Joseph Koptowsky, Miami Member...................................... Jennifer Pytlarz, Brandon Executive Editor.........Michael Jackson, Tallahassee Managing Editor.........................Dave Fiore, Tallahassee

This is a peer reviewed publication. ©2009, 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

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The Public Affairs Council, under the direction of Kathy Petsos, is charged with creating a timeline of significant accomplishments the Association has achieved since its inception. also work with the Legislative Committee to prepare for the health fair held during Pharmacist Legislative Days. Legislative Committee The Legislative Committee will be chaired by Ken Wisniewski. In addition to deciding upon the Association’s legislative agenda for the upcoming year, Ken and the committee are charged with developing the formalized grassroots network as described in Strategic Issue #2. This priority project proposes that the key pharmacist contacts visit local legislators in their home offices. For the pharmacist legislative contacts that are identified, the FPA will develop, train, and provide resources in order for them to conduct successful visits. The Legislative Committee, in collaboration with the Educational Affairs Council, will be instrumental in composing these materials.

Professional Affairs The Chair of the Professional Affairs Council is Suzy Wise. Suzy and her group will be responsible for identifying pharmacists who are being reimbursed for patient care services and helping to network those pharmacists with others who are interested in providing these services, as specified in Strategic Issue #3. Professional Affairs will also assist in the collection and dissemination of pharmacy influenza immunization data, with the intention that this data will lead to the expansion of regulatory authority for pharmacist immunizations. Thus, we have a great plan, and we have appointed key individuals who will collaborate to carry out the plan. However, even the best of plans can fail if appropriate deadlines are not established, accountability of key players is not maintained, or a breakdown in communication occurs. To prevent this from happening, I have appointed Don Bergemann as our Strategic Plan Champion. In the role of Strategic Plan

Champion, Don’s job will be to monitor and report on plan progress or setbacks at each meeting of the Board of Directors. As the incoming Treasurer of the Association, he will be keeping an especially close watch on Strategic Issue #4 – financial viability of the Association. Now that we have looked within our own organization and identified teams that will collaborate to get the job done, the next step is to “get out of the box” and think outside the Association. What external collaborations would help strengthen the Association and enhance the vitality of the profession? One group that comes quickly to mind is the five colleges of pharmacy within our state. The colleges hold within their walls the pharmacists of tomorrow – the next generation of our profession and a vital resource for our organization. Through collaboration with the Association of Student Pharmacists chapters at each school, we will attempt to engage the student membership of FPA. During the year, the leadership of our Association will personally visit each college for White Coat ceremonies or FPA outreach activities. The FPA must also collaborate with our fellow pharmacy organizations and major pharmacy stakeholders in Florida. The association has already initiated this through its involvement with the Florida Advisory Council on Pharmacy Practice. By identifying issues of common interest among the key stakeholders, pharmacy can present a more united front to the legislators. This year we aim to combine efforts with other Florida pharmacy organizations to make a more impressive presence of Florida pharmacists at Legislative Days. Lastly, we must work together with our biggest potential advocates, our patients. Recently my husband e-mailed me the following headline from Forbes. com: “Top-paying jobs for women – No. 1: Pharmacist.” I was elated until I scrolled down to read the job description of this highly paid professional – “Pharmacists - what they do: distribute pharmaceutical drugs. “ – PERIOD. By the looks of this statement, there is still a big gap in public knowledge about our education, training, and the ability

JOIN TODAY! Florida Pharmacy Association The FPA must also collaborate with our fellow pharmacy organizations and major pharmacy stakeholders in Florida. of the pharmacist to impact health outcomes. This concern was further validated during our trip to Tallahassee for Pharmacist Legislative Days. We were sitting in the office of one of the legislators informing him of all the great patient care services pharmacists can provide. He looked at us point-blank and said, “I don’t see that happening in my pharmacy.” Therefore, we must each make a personal effort to do what we can to move pharmacy forward, to get out of that box, and work one-on-one with

our patients. If we want to be at the table, and not on the menu, during this era of health care reform, then we need to become “indispensable” in the eyes of our patients. In the “good old days,” in order to be successful in pharmacy, one might only need to work hard. Today, however, pharmacists face a very different work environment. Regulation, a downturn in the economy, vast changes in medical economics, and an overall “health care crisis” have created a very different climate for us. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we all work together. It is my sincere hope that you will keep in mind that Collaboration Is Key. n

AUGUST 2009

New Ratings for America’s Hospitals Now Available on Hospital Compare Web Site Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Individual Rates Provided on More Than 4,000 Hospitals Nationwide, New Mortality and Readmission Data Included Important new information has been added today to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Hospital Compare Web site that reports how frequently patients return to a hospital after being discharged, a possible indicator of how well the facility did the first time around. The site is www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov. On average, 1 in 5 Medicare beneficiaries who are discharged from a hospital today will re-enter the hospital within a month. Reducing the rate of hospital readmissions to improve quality and achieve savings are key components of President Obama’s health care reform agenda. “The President and Congress have both identified the reduction of readmissions as a target area for health reform,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. “When we reduce readmissions, we improve the quality of care patients receive and cut health care costs.”

Flo r i d a P h a r m a c y T o d aY

With the update announced today, Hospital Compare will provide better data on the previously posted mortality rates for individual hospitals, as well as the new data on 30-day readmissions for heart attack, heart failure, and pneumonia. Previously, Hospital Compare had provided only mortality rates for these three conditions. Research has shown that hospital readmissions are reducing the quality of health care while increasing hospital costs. Hospital Compare data show that for patients admitted to a hospital for heart attack treatment, 19.9 percent of them will return to the hospital within 30 days, 24.5 percent of patients admitted for heart failure will return to the hospital within 30 days, and 18.2 percent of patients admitted for pneumonia will return to the hospital within 30 days. “Providing readmission rates by hospital will give consumers even better information with which to compare local providers,” said Charlene Frizzera, CMS Acting Administrator. “Readmission rates will help consumers identify those providers in the community who are furnishing high-value healthcare with the best results.” CMS has been tracking the outcomes of hospital care since 2007 when Hospital Compare debuted 30-day mortality rates for heart attack and heart failure. Thirty-day mortality rates for pneumonia were added to the Web site in 2008.

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This year, CMS has changed the way it calculates the mortality data to provide even better information to consumers. In 2007 and 2008, Medicare used only one year of claims data to compute mortality, while the rates added to the Web site today encompass three full years of claims data (from July 1, 2005 – June 30, 2008). Although this means that consumers cannot compare data from last year’s rate with this year’s rate, the expanded data set should provide a clearer picture of how well hospitals are performing. Using the three-year data method, CMS estimates that the national 30-day mortality rate for patients originally admitted for heart attack care is 16.6 percent. For heart failure patients, the national 30-day mortality rate is 11.1 percent, and for pneumonia patients the national rate is 11.5 percent. “Using three years of data for our mortality measures is a critical development in our effort to inform the public about hospital quality,” said Barry M. Straube, M.D., CMS Chief Medical Officer and Director of the Agency’s Office of Clinical Standards & Quality. “More data gives a clearer picture of the quality of care delivered at different hospitals over time, which ultimately increases the value of our mortality information to hospital patients, health care payers, employers, policymakers, and other health care stakeholders.” Both the mortality and the readmissions measures have been endorsed by the National Quality Forum (NQF) and are supported by the Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA). These measure endorsement processes are instrumental in facilitating CMS’s communication with hospitals and helping to mo-

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tivate those hospitals to continually analyze and improve the quality of their care. Collaboration achieved through the CMS measure development process, the NQF and HQA continues to ensure that public reporting efforts for hospitals are supported by a broad cross section of the health care community. Both sets of measures are risk-adjusted and take into account previous health problems to “level the playing field” among hospitals and to help ensure accuracy in performance reporting. The Hospital Compare Web site will show a hospital’s mortality or readmissions rate is “Better than,” “No different from,” or “Worse than” the U.S. national rate. This data information includes each hospital’s risk-standardized mortality rate (RSMR), an estimate of the rate’s certainty (also known as the interval estimate), and the number of eligible cases for each hospital. By posting hospital RSMRs, interval estimates, and the number of eligible cases, CMS is giving consumers and communities additional insight into the performance of their local hospitals in hopes that this will prompt all hospitals to work toward achieving the level of the top-performing hospitals in the country. Hospital Compare also includes 10 measures that capture patient satisfaction with hospital care, 25 process of care measures, and two children’s asthma care measures. The site also features information about the number of selected elective hospital procedures provided to patients and what Medicare pays for those services. Public reporting of these and other measures is intended to empower patients and their families with information they need to engage their local hospitals and physicians in active discussions about quality of care. “CMS believes that all hospitals, regardless of their readmission and mortality rates, should use the data available in these free, detailed reports to find ways to continually improve the care they deliver,” said Frizzera. CMS urges consumers not to view any one process or outcome measure on Hospital Compare as a tool to “shop” for a hospital. The information contained on Hospital Compare is available for consumers to use in making health care decisions; although, consumers should gather information from multiple sources when choosing a hospital. For example, patients and caregivers could use the Web site to help them discuss plans of care with their trusted health care providers. In an emergency situation, patients should always go to the nearest, most easily accessible facility. Consumers have relied on Hospital Compare since 2005 to provide information about the quality of care provided in over 4,700 of America’s acute-care hospitals. In 2008 alone, Hospital Compare had over 18 million page views, and has received about 1 million page views each month of 2009 thus far.

Preventing Weight Gain Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If you’re currently at a healthy weight, you’re already one step ahead of the game. To stay at a healthy weight, it’s worth doing a little planning now. Or maybe you are overweight but aren’t ready to lose weight yet. If this is the case, preventing further weight gain is a worthy goal. As people age, their body composition gradually shifts — the proportion of muscle decreases and the proportion of fat increases. This shift slows their metabolism, making it easier to gain weight. In addition, some people become less physically active as they get older, increasing the risk of weight gain. The good news is that weight gain can be prevented by choosing a lifestyle that includes good eating habits and daily physical activity. By avoiding weight gain, you avoid higher risks of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and some forms of cancer.

you’ll increase the amount of calories your body burns. This makes it more likely you’ll maintain your weight. Although physical activity is an integral part of weight management, it’s also a vital part of health in general. Regular physical activity can reduce your risk for many chronic diseases and it can help keep your body healthy and strong. To learn more about how physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, visit Physical Activity for Healthy Weight. Self-monitoring You may also find it helpful to weigh yourself on a regular basis. If you see a few pounds creeping on, take the time to examine your lifestyle. With these

strategies, you make it more likely that you’ll catch small weight gains more quickly. Ask yourself— ■■ Has my activity level changed? ■■ Am I eating more than usual? You may find it helpful to keep a food diary for a few days to make you more aware of your eating choices. If you ask yourself these questions and find that you’ve decreased your activity level or made some poor food choices, make a commitment to yourself to get back on track. Set some reasonable goals to help you get more physical activity and make better food choices.

Choosing an Eating Plan to Prevent Weight Gain So, how do you choose a healthful eating plan that will enable you to maintain your current weight? The goal is to make a habit out of choosing foods that are nutritious and healthful. To learn more, visit Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight. If your goal is to prevent weight gain, then you’ll want to choose foods that supply you with the appropriate number of calories to maintain your weight. This number varies from person to person. It depends on many factors, including your height, weight, age, sex, and activity level. For more, see Balancing Calories. Get Moving! In addition to a healthy eating plan, an active lifestyle will help you maintain your weight. By choosing to add more physical activity to your day, AUGUST 2009

Setting the Pace with PACCE! Mark Hobbs, Chair

In memoriam of our colleagues Barnard S. Varn Calvin William Brown Bernard Schuster Fletcher Gibson Leonard Mitrick Gerald Dominey Lorraine Ford Constantine Lopilato William Mount John Marcus Gus Marcus Joe Baldridge Jack Pieper Arnold Albert Reva L. Massey Richard “Dick” Witas

Flo r i d a P h a r m a c y T o d aY

At the recently completed 119th Annual Meeting of the Florida Pharmacy Association, the FP-PACCE held one of the most successful events i n ou r h i stor y. Joining close to 100 pharmacists and guests were Florida State Representatives David Rivera, Mike Weinstein, Clay Ford, Greg The state representatives are from left to right: Rep David Evers and Alan Rivera, Rep. Alan Hayes, Rep. Mike Weinstein, Rep. Clay Ford and Hays, who enjoyed Rep. Greg Evers an evening of fine wine and friends. out their civic responsibilities; and (4 ) We had the opportunity to hear from To do any and all things necessary or each of the Representatives and give desirable for the attainment of the purthem a contribution to their respective poses stated above. re-election campaigns. It was a great The Florida Pharmacy Association kickoff to a busy political season, and has as one of its primary goals to be the we won’t stop there. But we need your most effective, proactive, and powerful support! pharmacy advocacy group in the state. What exactly is the PACCE? FloriAt the same time, we are moving into da Pharmacy Political Action Commitone of the most significant election cytee of Continuing Existence (PACCE) cles in the history of our state. We will is an advocacy committee for the prosee a change in leadership at not only fession of pharmacy in Florida without the executive level, but up to half the political party affiliation. Your current Senate seats in the state will change board members include Theresa Tolle hands. It is critical to our profession (serving as Treasurer), Joy Marcus, Tom that we fill these seats with individuCuomo, Nick Generalovich, Ken Wisals who support our profession. That is niewski, Val Ingoldsby, Alex Pytlarz, why your money is so critical. Contriand me serving as Chair. Its purposes butions to the FP-PACCE in turn helps are (1) To promote and strive for the imus to evaluate these candidates and give provement of government by encourdonations to those who will support us aging and stimulating the profession in the state Legislature. Isn’t it worth and business of pharmacy and othat least $1/day to support your profesers to take a more active and effective sion? part in governmental affairs; (2) To enHow can you help? If you’re intercourage pharmacists and others to unested, I need to hear from you! You can derstand the nature and actions of their e-mail me at hobbsrx@msn.com. More government, as to important political importantly, make a contribution TOissues, and as to the records of officeDAY! You can send a check directly to holders and candidates for elective ofFPPACCE. Or if you choose, you can fice; (3) To assist pharmacists and othmake a monthly contribution on your ers in organizing themselves for more VISA or Master Card. effective political action and in carrying

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 – rsimmons@ 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.

Other Member Benefits  Discounted Continuing Education

Programs  Monthly Issues of the Florida Phar-

macy Today Journal 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 professional needs. This includes the Continuous Quality Improvement Manual, Controlled Substance Inventory Booklets and Pharmacy Signs. Please call FPA Members Services for more information: 850-222-2400 ext. 110. FPA Website Visit our FPA Website at ww.pharmview. com. The site, launched in December 2004 and revised in October 2008, 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.

Collection Services For past due accounts call I. C. System, Inc. Call (800) 328-9595.

AUGUST 2009

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

INSURANCE Meadowbrook Workers Comp Insurance Endorsed by FPA (800) 825-9489

TEMPORARY PHARMACISTs – STAFFING HealthCare Consultants Pharmacy Staffing Bob Miller (800) 642-1652 Medical Staffing Network (800) 359-1234 Rx Relief (800) RXRELIEF

LEGAL ASSISTANCE Kahan ◆ Shir, P.L. Brian A. Kahan, R.Ph., and Attorney at Law (561) 999-5999

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 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 Recovering Pharmacists Network of Florida (407) 257-6606 “Pharmacists Helping Pharmacists”

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. 16

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