The Official Publication Of The Florida Pharmacy Association AUG. 2017
FLORIDA PHARMACY ASSOCIATION’S 127TH ANNUAL MEETING AND CONVENTION
Dedicated to Our Members since 1909.
phmic.com
Our Mission To help our customers attain peace of mind through specialized insurance products, risk management solutions, and superior personal service.
2 |
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
florida PHARMACY TODAY Departments 4 Calendar 4 Advertisers 5 President’s Viewpoint 9 Executive Insight 28 Buyer’s Guide
VOL. 80 | NO. 8 AUGUST 2017 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FLORIDA PHARMACY ASSOCIATION
Features
13 24
Florida Pharmacy Association’s 127th Annual Meeting and Convention FPA NEWS & NOTES
AUGUST 2017
|
3
FPA Calendar 2017
SEPTEMBER 1
Deadline to submit nominations for FPA President-Elect and Regional Directors
4
Labor Day - FPA Office Closed
9-10
Regulatory & Law Conference Miami
NOVEMBER 10
FPA Office Closed for Veterans Day
18
Budget and Finance Committee Web Conference Call
19
FPA Board of Directors Web Conference Call
23-24 Thanksgiving FPA Office Closed
OCTOBER 3-4
Florida Board of Pharmacy Meeting
7-8
Midyear Clinical & Nuclear Conference Kissimmee
DECEMBER 9-10
Regulatory & Law Conference Sarasota
12-13 Florida Board of Pharmacy Meeting
14-18 NCPA Annual Convention Kissimmee
For a complete calendar of events go to www.pharmview.com Events calendar subject to change 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. There is a new 2 hour CE requirement for pharmacists on the dispensing of controlled substances effective this biennial renewal period. Pharmacists should have satisfied all continuing education requirements for this biennial period by September 30, 2017 or prior to licensure renewal. Consultant pharmacists and technicians will need to renew their licenses and registrations by December 31, 2018. For Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Application, Exam Information and Study materials, please contact the FPA office. For more information on CE programs or events, please contact the Florida Pharmacy Association at (850) 222-2400 or visit our website at www.pharmview.com
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 to secure appropriate advertising to assist the Journal in its goal of self-support.
Advertisers THE HEALTH LAW FIRM............................... 25 INR....................................................................... 11 KAHAN & ASSOCIATES................................. 10 PHARMACISTS MUTUAL................................ 2 PQC...................................................................... 26 MCKESSON........................................................ 11
CONTACTS FPA — Michael Jackson (850) 222-2400 FSHP — Tamekia Bennett (850) 906-9333 UF — Kristin Weitzel (352) 273-5114 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 is 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. 4 |
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
E-MAIL YOUR SUGGESTIONS/IDEAS TO dave@fiorecommunications.com
The President’s Viewpoint SUZY WISE, PHARMD/MBA CPH
Advocating for the Pharmacy Profession Authored by FPA Professional Affairs Council Members:
Sarah J. Steinhardt, Pharm.D., J.D., M.S.
Jennifer A. Marsh, Pharm.D. Candidate 2018
Cameron Durlacher, Pharm.D. Candidate 2018
Advocacy is defined as “public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.” As it relates to pharmacy, the causes for which we advocate in our profession are numerous, including the promotion of safe and effective use of medications; the reduction of medication errors and medication misadventures; the innovation of programs and mechanisms through which to provide optimum quality patient care in all settings; and the growth of the profession through increased scope of practice for pharmacists and technicians to match their rapidly advancing levels of education. Momentum and public support for particular causes fluctuates depending on current global, national, state or local events, therefore it is important for pharmacists to remain aware of health care issues and stay active in pharmacy associations like the Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA) that track changes in policy and provide members with information to stay ahead of, author and champion changes to the profession and the constantly evolving health care system. The FPA has a long history of advocating for the profession and through this white paper, FPA seeks to equip its members with information to actively participate in the policy-making process on local, state and federal levels, as well as to inform members of avenues through which they can support initiatives deemed important to our profession by the House of Delegates. How Does the Legislative Process Work? BACKGROUND: STATUTES VERSUS REGULATIONS AND THE LEGISLATURE VERSUS AGENCIES
Pharmacy law is made through the passage of statutes through the state and federal legislatures and the promulgation of rules through the notice and comment process by federal agencies and the Florida Board of Pharmacy, which is the
state agency that regulates pharmacy practice in the state of Florida. Statutes authorize the creation of rules. In other words, the Florida Board of Pharmacy cannot make a rule unless there is a statute that first exists to authorize the creation of that rule. Statutes are made by the state Suzy Wise, PharmD/MBA CPh and federal legisla2017-2018 FPA President ture, so for this reason, advocacy often starts at the legislative level. Once a statute is passed, it will provide a broad blueprint and give the Board authority to promulgate a rule which generally provides more detail on the procedure than the statute. For example, a statute can broadly grant pharmacists the authority to immunize while the more detailed rule promulgated pursuant to the statute will describe all the specifics required for pharmacists to become certified to immunize. How a Bill Becomes a Law The legislative process in actuality is more complicated and nuanced than the general overviews that are commonly presented, but an overall understanding of the process fundamentals is sufficient and critical when serving the profession as a knowledgeable advocate. Statutes are law made through the legislative process, more commonly known as “how a bill becomes a law.” Bills are the precursors to laws and they start out as ideas. Ideas can come from individuals or groups brought about by problems they experience in practice or changes they see occurring in the health care system. Ideas are converted into drafts for bills, which must be brought to the attention of legislators who can sponsor or cosponsor the bill to introduce it into the legislature and champion it as it moves through the process. Bills may be introduced in the House side or Senate, and it’s very common to introduce a bill with companion bills, meaning identical bills are often introduced in the House and Senate at the same time. AUGUST 2017
|
5
At the federal level in Washington, D.C., we have a bicameral legislature referred to as Congress, and it is made up of the House and the Senate. At the state level in Florida, we have a state legislature, referred to as the Legislature or the State Legislature, which is also bicameral and made up of a House and Senate. Once the sponsor and cosponsors are identified and the bill is introduced, it is moved to the appropriate committee. Senators and representatives are assigned to committees with different areas of jurisdiction to examine bills introduced on specific subject matter. Health-related bills will be sent to subcommittees, then committees focused on health issues. At the federal level, in the Senate, the two primary committees with jurisdiction over health issues are the Finance Committee and the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. The Budget Committee, Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and the Judiciary Committee also have some jurisdiction over health issues. In the House, the major health related committees are the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Ways and Means Committee. The Budget Committee, Committee on Education and Labor, Homeland Security Committee and the Judiciary Committee also have some jurisdiction over issues affecting health. In committee, the legislators and staff discuss the bill to decide if they want to pass, change or fail the bill. If the bill passes through the subcommittee, it moves up to full committee review for another pass, change, fail determination. If it passes through full committee, it is sent to the floor for a vote by the legislators. A majority vote will allow the bill to pass and then it moves to the other chamber to repeat the process. Once both chambers have approved the bill, a conference committee containing members from both chambers meets and reports the final version of the bill, which is then sent to the governor’s desk at the state level, or the president’s desk at the federal level for signature, veto, pocket veto or passage without signature. A gubernatorial or presidential veto may be overridden by a two-thirds vote of both chambers of the legislature or Congress. Laws take effect upon signing or upon the effective date expressly communicated within the statute. The legislative process was structured to make it difficult for bad laws to be passed, so accordingly, only a very small percentage of bills survive the process to become laws. There are many opportunities in the process for a bill to change significantly or die, so it is vital to have strategic advocates working diligently at all steps of the process to influence legislators and ensure the bill’s integrity. While it is commendable for a representative or senator to introduce a bill, the bill has a long road to travel before it becomes an actual law. Educated pharmacy advocates should be aware of this fact and not assume that the introduction of a bill is a sure sign of passage.
From an idea gathering perspective and truly throughout the entire process, it is important for pharmacists and technicians to stay involved with their professional associations to voice their concerns and position themselves to direct the future of the profession. Pharmacists who are active members of professional associations, such as the Florida Pharmacy Association, have a network within which to communicate their concerns and reach out to legislators with a strong collective voice. Members who have ideas for legislation to improve the profession may start by proposing a resolution at the FPA House of Delegates to gain member approval and association support.
How Can a Pharmacist Be an Advocate in the Legislative Process?
■■
LEADING AND STAYING ACTIVE IN PHARMACY ASSOCIATIONS 6 |
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
CONTRIBUTING IDEAS AND DRAFTING LEGISLATION
Professional associations exist to represent the interests of their members and to advocate for both the survival and evolution of the profession. Associations have dedicated staff who follow legislative activity and Board of Pharmacy rulemaking in order to monitor legislative or regulatory work being done or advocate for a position or issue if necessary. Depending on the issue, it may be a situation that can be improved via the passage of legislation. Should this be the case, association leaders and pharmacist members may come together to assist state legislators in drafting appropriate legislation. Interprofessional advocacy may be required depending on the issue. Additionally, awareness of major legislative or administrative movements within other professions is critical to ensure pharmacy is not left out of key discussions and changes to professional practice within other health care professions and that they maintain their role as a team member within the changing health care system. ENGAGING LEGISLATORS
Aside from generating ideas and assisting in the drafting of legislation, pharmacists can also take an active role in advocacy by visiting their legislators, writing to their legislators, inviting legislators and staff for site visits at their practice, and organizing and attending pharmacy advocacy focused events in the community. TIPS FOR VISITING LEGISLATORS ■■
■■
■■
■■
Make an effort to visit your legislators at their offices in the Capitol and those in their home district. Visit your legislator’s websites to obtain contact information, then telephone your legislator’s office and speak with the front desk scheduler to obtain an appointment or email the health focused legislative aide to briefly state your issue and request a meeting. Stay involved with your local and national pharmacy associations that host advocacy events and provide opportunities for legislative visits. Arrive early to ensure you are on time for the appointment. Dress professionally. For particular advocacy events, you may be asked to wear your white coat to reinforce your
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
■■ ■■ ■■
role and presence as a health care professional. Come prepared with a concise pitch that will introduce yourself, background on the issue, your stance and a request for their support. If you are going as a group, it may help to prepare who will speak and what part of the issue they will individually address. Bring a business card to hand to the legislator or staff member during introductions, so they may follow up with you for any additional questions. Note that you may meet the actual legislator, but more commonly you will be speaking to a member of their legislative staff. Prior to the meeting, compile some written materials summarizing your issue to leave with them for their further review. Be prepared for questions and have thorough knowledge of the issues. Legislators and staffers knowledge of and experience with issues will vary, so it is important that they can rely on your expertise. If you do not know the answer to a question, do not make something up. Offer to follow up. Be polite and respectful. Compose a thank you email to the legislator or staffer to whom you spoke following the meeting to thank them for their time and briefly reinforce the reason for your visit.
2. TIPS FOR CALLING LEGISLATORS ■■
■■
■■
■■ ■■
Mass phone calls are quick and effective methods for communicating your issues to your legislator and staff. Staff will keep track of how many people called and for what issue. It is generally most effective to call a U.S. senator’s district/state office as opposed to the Washington, D.C., office as the staff in the district offices are specifically focused on constituents and their issues. When calling be concise, introduce yourself, tell why you are calling (e.g. if it is legislation that has been introduced) and what you would like for them to do (e.g. cosponsor, support and/or vote for the legislation). Provide follow up contact info for the legislator or their office to contact you with further questions. Use professional, formal language.
3. TIPS FOR WRITING TO LEGISLATORS ■■
■■
■■
Be sure to address letters individually and know that legislators are more likely to read letters written by their district constituents. Visit your professional association’s government affairs website as they will commonly have letter templates you can use which may have suggested general formatting and potentially may contain advice on direct verbiage for your particular issue. Make sure you begin the letter with the appropriate salutations (e.g. “Dear Representative Jones” or “Dear Senator Smith”) and ensure the address refers to the legislator with the appropriate honorifics (e.g. The Honorable Sally Smith, United States Senate, 100 Dirksen Senate Office
■■ ■■
■■ ■■ ■■
■■
■■ ■■ ■■
Building, Washington, DC 20510). Participate in letter writing campaigns initiated by pharmacy associations. Do your research on legislators and determine if they are members of key health care committees or if they have a specific dedication to your issue through their personal lives or history of support of health related or pharmacy specific issues. Introduce yourself and explain your stake in the issue. Give specific and concise information using powerful language. Summarize your issue into three main points. If you are advocating for or against a specific piece of legislation, include the bill number (e.g. H.R. ____ or S. ____ ) in the letter. Realize that legislators are generally knowledgeable, but they are not typically experts in or members of your field and will need to rely on quality information you provide to make decisions. Make it personal and explain why the change will benefit the community. If applicable and appropriate, invite your legislator to visit your practice site. Ask a friend to proofread your letter to check for spelling, grammar, organization and readability to appear reasonably educated and to put your best foot forward.
4. TIPS FOR INVITING LEGISLATORS TO YOUR PRACTICE SITE ■■
■■
■■ ■■
■■
■■
■■ ■■
Contact your legislator’s office with proposed times or a range of dates that would work for you to host them or send a flyer for a specific event you would like them to attend. Take into consideration when the legislature is in session and in recess when selecting potential times. Prior to their arrival, be sure to communicate with your workplace colleagues about the visit to give others an opportunity to visit with the legislator if they so desire. Ensure the work environment is presentable, clean and organized. Make sure you review the legislator’s priorities and key issues as well as their biography on their website, so that you can speak to mutual interests and goals. Set aside some time during the visit to speak with the legislator about current issues in the legislature you would like to see addressed. Organize a tour of the facilities and highlight programs and services you provide that demonstrate the pharmacist’s critical role in health care and patient safety. Take photos to document the experience. Compose and send a thank you note to your legislator following the visit and include photos taken during the visit. Express your open interest in a return visit if amenable to their schedule and tell them you will be in touch with regards to pharmacy issues in the legislature.
Donating to Political Action Committees (PACs) Another avenue for advocacy is pharmacist donations to political action committees or PACs. Associations commonAUGUST 2017 |
7
2016-17 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 diligently all year long on behalf of our members.
Scott Tomerlin....................................................................................................Board Chair Suzanne Wise...............................................................................................FPA President Ashley Huff.................................................................................................... FPA Treasurer Angela Garcia............................................................................................President-Elect David Mackarey........................................................................Speaker of the House Jeanette Connelly.......................................................Vice Speaker of the House Charzetta James.................................................................................. FSHP President Joyanna Wright................................................................................... Region 1 Director Neil Barnett............................................................................................Region 2 Director Dean Pedalino.......................................................................................Region 3 Director Linda Lazuka.........................................................................................Region 4 Director Melissa Ruble........................................................................................Region 5 Director Luther Laite IV.....................................................................................Region 6 Director Paul Delisser.................................................................... Region 7 Director (Interim) Humberto Martinez..........................................................................Region 8 Director Mitchell Fingerhut.............................................................................Region 9 Director
Florida Pharmacy Today Journal Board Chair.............................................................. Carol Motycka, motycka@cop.ufl.edu Vice Chair....................................................Cristina Medina, cmmedina@cvs.com Treasurer...............................Don Bergemann, don.bergemann@verizon.net Secretary................................................................... Stuart Ulrich, stuarx@aol.com Member.............................. Rebecca Poston, Rebecca.Poston@flhealth.gov Member.................................................Patricia Nguebo, notablep@hotmail.com Member................................................................Norman Tomaka, FLRX9@aol.com Member............................................Greta Pelegrin, gretapelegrin@yahoo.com Executive Editor................Michael Jackson, mjackson@pharmview.com Managing Editor...................Dave Fiore, dave@fiorecommunications.com Journal Reviewer....................... Dr. Melissa Ruble, mruble@health.usf.edu Journal Reviewer....................................Dr. Angela Hill, ahill2@health.usf.edu
ly have PACs, so that pharmacist members can donate to provide funds for the association to use to support legislators who represent pharmacists’ interests. Pharmacists may also organize fundraising activities and conduct competitions between local groups of the association to raise money for the PAC. The Florida Pharmacist Political Committee (FPPC) is the PAC of the Florida Pharmacy Association. Donations may be made online or by check via mail. Educating Self and Others on Pharmacy Issues Keep current on emerging pharmacy and health care issues by staying upto-date on health care news obtained from reliable media sources, outlets, conferences and organized professional events, including your local pharmacy association meetings. Maintenance of membership in pharmacy associations also provides a pharmacist with updates on critical legislative issues at the federal and state level. The Florida Pharmacy Association emails news updates to current members to keep them apprised of changes at the state level from legislation passed by the state legislature to rules promulgated by the Florida Board of Pharmacy. Local associations offer Continuing Education programs for pharmacists and technicians looking to stay abreast on issues. Promotion of the profession with events and public service announcements to the community can educate the public on the roles, responsibilities and benefits provided by pharmacists and the pharmacy profession. Staging a community event or a health fair or creating an advertisement promoting the profession can be very helpful during American Pharmacists Month in October. Pharmacists should also work with elected officials to have October officially declared as American Pharmacists Month on a local level and garner support from local news and radio. Pharmacists may partner with members of the press to suggest and contribute to news articles or news reports publicizing issues of interest. PharmaSee Viewpoint continued on p. 11
8 |
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
Executive Insight BY MICHAEL JACKSON, RPH MICHAEL JACKSON, BPHARM, EVP & CEO, FLORIDA PHARMACY ASSOCIATION
T
Opioid Epidemic: Challenge or Opportunity?
here was an announcement earlier this month from the Office of the U.S. Attorney General that efforts are underway to crack down on fraudulent activity from health care providers related to the abuse of opioid prescription drugs. This initiative is coming from the growing trend in this country of prescription drug abuse and how it has affected society. You saw in last month’s issue of Florida Pharmacy Today a wonderful article written by Dr. Jessica Fields entitled “The Opioid Epidemic.” In her message, she notes that 52,404 Americans died in 2015 due to drug overdose. That is almost five people dying in the time it took you to browse through this issue of Florida Pharmacy Today. Looking at it from a different angle, there were 2,996 deaths from the airplane crashes on September 11, 2001, in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Those were horrible acts that shocked the nation and changed the way we think about security. The loss of life from opioid abuse is fast becoming much more deadly with significant socioeconomic consequences. For the weight of the attorney general’s office to initiate such a fraud program means that there will be increased scrutiny on physician and pharmacist health care providers. In a way, this could be perceived as both a challenge and an opportunity. Consider the following: In 2009 and 2010, Florida was considered a destination state for pain killer drugs. Our state had a high number of registered pain clinics operating, of which some were operating inappropriately. There were a number of aggressive
enforcement actions taken by state and federal regulators with a goal toward reigning in bad behavior. Florida passed laws that created new standards for pain clinics. This resulted in a sizable reduction of the number of registered pain clinics in this state. Pharmacies began experiencing tight supplies on certain controlled substanc-
You saw in last month’s issue of Florida Pharmacy Today a wonderful article written by Dr. Jessica Fields entitled “The Opioid Epidemic.” In her message, she notes that 52,404 Americans died in 2015 due to drug overdose. es, likely due to increased agency scrutiny on the wholesale market place. These changes created new problems by limiting access of medications for patients with terminal illnesses or suffering from chronic, nonmalignant pain. With all of the above, the Florida Board of Pharmacy, through its rule making, revised the standard of practice for the dispensing of controlled substances. This gave pharmacists new tools on best practices when working with patients who have prescriptions for opioid drugs. There was also a change to pharmacist continuing-education requirements,
Michael Jackson, B.Pharm
adding in a program that addresses the validation of prescription drugs for controlled substances. Recent laws have also been passed allowing pharmacists to provide certain narcotic antagonists to not only the patient, but the patient’s caregiver, through a standing order. In May, Florida’s governor (See May 4 FPA News Release) issued an emergency order allowing for the provision of these narcotic antagonists to first responders under a standing order. Gov. Scott extended his emergency order on June 29, meaning that the order continues to the end of August. So, we know the challenges with pending increased scrutiny by agencies under the direction of the U.S. Attorney General’s Office, but what are the opportunities? This issue of opioid abuse in my judgment was not initiated within the pharmacy profession. A pharmacist cannot fill a prescription that AUGUST 2017
|
9
FPA STAFF Executive Vice President/CEO Michael Jackson (850) 222-2400, ext. 200
Director of Continuing Education Tian Merren-Owens, ext. 120
Educational Services Office Assistant Stacey Brooks, ext. 210 Coordinator of Membership Christopher Heil, ext. 110
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY BOARD Chair..................................... Carol Motycka, St. Augustine Vice Chair................................Cristina Medina, Hollywood Treasurer...................Don Bergemann, Tarpon Springs Secretary.........................Stuart Ulrich, Boynton Beach Member..............................Rebecca Poston, Tallahassee Member.............................................. Patricia Nguebo, Ocala Member................................. Norman Tomaka, Melbourne Member..............................................Greta Pelegrin, Hialeah Executive Editor.........Michael Jackson, Tallahassee Managing Editor.........................Dave Fiore, Tallahassee
This is a peer-reviewed publication. ©2016, 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 10
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
has not been written. We are already the solution to this issue because of the hard work of our pharmacist colleagues. Data shows that here in Florida, our profession is the most aggressive when it comes to researching the prescription drug monitoring program database. We are the ones who see potential clinical issues with duplicate prescription drug therapy, early refills and identifying evidence of possible drug-seeking behavior. Like it or not, we are now in the place of serving as the last line of defense when it comes to prescription drug abuse. It is here that we in pharmacy can play a higher role within each of our communities by telling our story of what safety measures we bring to the health care table. We now have an opportunity to testify before our city and county commissioners to explain what we do. We can facilitate drug abuse health seminars in our local community cen-
ters, churches or social events. We also have a responsibility to identify unprofessional behavior that is going on and share that information with state agencies. Lastly, it is our belief that the interventions that pharmacists perform in preventing drug abuse should be a compensated service. Drug abuse prevention can have a positive financial impact on society, and the work that we do as pharmacists in this area should be recognized. If we continue our diligence in closely monitoring our patients’ prescription drug therapy, there will be nothing to fear from increased agency scrutiny. Comprehensive documentation and recordkeeping is the best prevention against potential administrative liability. Consider attending one of the FPA’s law conferences in Miami in September or Sarasota in December to get the latest updates on these issues. We will be offering our prescription drug validation program at both meetings.. n
A Pharmacist And A Lawyer Licensure Disciplinary Proceedings Insurance Company/PBM Audits and Appeals Purchase & Sales of Pharmacies Regulatory Compliance Consultants Business Operations Consultants KAHAN & ASSOCIATES, PLLC
Pharmacist Attorney Brian A. Kahan, R.Ph., J.D. Licensed Florida Pharmacist and Attorney
STATEWIDE REPRESENTATION 561-392-9000 bkahan@kahanlaw.com 2300 N.W. Corporate Blvd., Suite 123 Boca Raton, FL 33431 The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.
Viewpoint continued from p. 8
cists can compose articles for publication in professional journals or in lay publications to raise awareness of the current state of affairs or promote a particular policy view through the dissemination of helpful scientific research supporting a specific stance. Pharmacists can make use of social media platforms to share information, blog about issues or start campaigns to raise awareness. Pharmacists can also attend Board of Pharmacy meetings to learn more about changes in state pharmacy practice regulations. Transcripts of Board meetings and audio is also available online for those who are unable to appear at all meetings. Voting in Elections Pharmacist advocates will exercise their right to vote in elections. Make sure to register to vote in time for an election and be informed on the deadlines and requirements. Examine the ballot, the candidates and the proposed amendments prior to voting, so you are familiar with their views and what effect this will have on the profession and the state. Voter Registration Process Information regarding eligibility to vote and how to register by mail or in person is available online (http://dos.myflorida.com). This website outlines the process to change party affiliation, address and name. Note that Florida is a closed
primary state, so only voters who have indicated a political party on their registration are eligible to vote in that select party’s primary in the primary elections. IMPORTANT DATES
Voter registration is available at any time, however, registration must be completed 29 days prior to an election to be eligible to vote in it. Attending Town Hall Meetings Town hall meetings are events scheduled by senators and representatives to explain the work they are doing for their constituents in the legislature and then open up the floor for constituents to directly ask them questions. This is a great opportunity to have face-to-face time with your elected officials. Sign up for an email list, call the office, or visit your member’s website to determine the date, time and place the town hall meeting is being held and make an appearance. Prepare your question(s) ahead of time, so you are ready to speak. When the floor is opened up for questions, immediately attempt to be recognized to ask your question in the event there are many constituents with questions. Be polite, respectful and courteous when speaking. If you want to discuss specific legislation, make sure you
Your patients are our priority, too. At McKesson, reliable delivery is at the heart of our business. We partner with you to improve your bottom line. Find out what’s possible. 866.329.0113 | mckesson.com ©2016 McKesson Corporation. All Rights Reserved. RTL-23671-04-16
www.inrseminars.com
877.246.6336
INR HAS MANY APPROVED LIVE SEMINARS AND HOME STUDIES FOR PHARMACISTS AND PHARMACY TECHNICIANS. Courses are also approved for Nurses, and many other health professionals. COURSES APPROVED IN ALL 50 STATES. AUGUST 2017 |
11
can competently explain the legislation to the member, can provide the bill number and summarize the key points and/ or issues of concern. If you were not able to have your question answered during the meeting, you may stay and attempt to speak to the member afterwards. Seek out staffers, talk to them about the issues and give them your business card. Petitioning the White House Occasionally, there are issues that may merit a petition to the White House to bring about public awareness to an issue or obtain the attention of the president. For example, in recent years, pharmacists have created and signed petitions to raise awareness on provider status and the legislation introduced (HR 4190) which would list pharmacists as health care providers in underserved communities. Petitions are created online (https://petitions. whitehouse. gov/user/login?destination=petition/create). You will then have 30 days to obtain 100,000 signatures before the White House will provide a response.
national levels. Patients on chronic medications who receive medication therapy management services from pharmacists can be excellent advocates given their amplified awareness of the role of the pharmacist on the health care team and community. Pharmacists can play a role to offset shortages in primary care providers and assist rural communities with pharmaceutical clinical services. The profession must continue to evolve and pharmacists must assert their abilities to contribute to progressive delivery systems for patient care. Pharmacists must also take the initiative to inform legislators on changes and difficulties in daily practice that can affect or instigate policy changes. In recent times, drug shortages and the hardships experienced by patients and pharmacies across the nation have prompted the passage of legislation at the federal level, so it is imperative that legislators be aware of these and any emerging problems occurring from the pharmacist perspective within the health care system.
Running for Office Pharmacists have made a difference at the federal and state level to shape the profession of pharmacy by serving as senators and representatives. The famous federal Durham-Humphrey Prescription Drug Amendment that created authority for oral prescriptions and created the two classes of drug (prescription-only and overthe-counter) was sponsored by two pharmacist congressmen, one a U.S. senator and one a U.S. representative. Visit the Florida Division of Elections website (http://dos. myflorida.com/elections/) or the Federal Election Commission (http://www.fec.gov/ pages/brochures/candregis.shtml) for more details on how to run.
STATE LEVEL
Representing the Pharmacy Profession Pharmacists, technicians and student pharmacists can impact the trajectory of the profession by serving their patients and the community. Courteous, comprehensive care is the best public relations statement you can make to gain support. By practicing at the top of your license and serving patients respectfully, ethically, legally and accurately, the significant impact pharmacists, technicians and student pharmacists have on patient care, individually and as a member of an interdisciplinary team, can be made evident to the general public and the health care community. What is the Benefit of Pharmacists and Pharmacy to Advocacy Efforts and Health Policy? Pharmacists provide numerous important services from medication therapy management to immunizations and it is our responsibility to communicate our value to the public and the health care community. The support of our patients and fellow health care professionals expressing the need for pharmaceutical services to their legislators provides great assistance from local, state and 12
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
What Resources Can I Use to Track Advocacy Efforts? The FPA maintains an up-to-date resource called the Legislative Action Center to track and promote legislation and advocacy efforts. Helpful links allow members to identify their elected officials and track alerts, votes, bills and more. Members may also join an action e-list to receive alerts on when their involvement (e.g. writing a letter, calling their elected officials) is especially needed to make a difference for specific legislative efforts. To facilitate member actions, the Legislative Action Center provides templates for writing and calling representatives. FEDERAL LEVEL
Pharmacists must also keep current with national and global issues of interest to the pharmacy profession. At the federal level, there are several prominent pharmacy associations that represent different areas of pharmacy including the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) and the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA). The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is the largest pharmacist association in the country and focuses on federal issues including provider status. More information on their advocacy efforts and issues of interest can be obtained at their website (http://www.pharmacist.com/advocate). Pharmacist engagement in advocacy is vital to the future of health care and is critical to the survival and advancement of the profession. There are several ways through which pharmacists can capitalize on opportunities to serve as leaders, innovators and regulators for their profession through their participation in the political process as informed, proactive advocates. Involvement with your local association and the FPA is a great way to support your patients and the future of the pharmacy profession. n
Launch Your Profession Forward Florida Pharmacy Association’s 127th Annual Meeting and Convention July 12-16, 2017
Top: David Mackarey, Paul Delisser, Patricia Langston-Crusoe, Damien Simmons and Angela Hill. Bottom Left: David Mackarey recognizes Carol Motycka for her work as 2016-17 Speaker of the House of Delegates. Bottom Right: Carmen Gordon, Joe Koptowski, Carla Luque, and a friend. AUGUST 2017
|
13
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
Thank You
The FPA recognizes the importance of the support of all the Sponsors and Contributors to the 127th Annual Meeting & Convention. We would like to offer them a sincere thank you for helping to make our program a wonderful success.
2017 Convention Sponsors & Contributors
GOLD
Pharmacist Mutual SUPPORT SPONSORS Cardinal Health Empire Pharmacy Consultants
Healthcare Consultants Pharmacy Staffing
Palm Beach County Pharmacy Rx Systems
McKesson
Tobacco Free Florida AHEC Cessation Program
Mercer University College of Pharmacy
Walgreen Co
Wolters Kluwer Health / Lexi Comp
Exhibitors Florida Pharmacy Foundation
PioneerRx Pharmacy Software
Girish GPO
PUTT – Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency
Ideal Protein of America
RX 30 Pharmacy System
Liberty Software
Silvergate Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Consent Pro
Medicare’s Limited Income Net Program
Tobacco Free Florida AHEC Cessation Program
E-FORCSE Prescription Drug Monitoring Program
One Touch
Advanced Inventory Systems
American Associated Pharmacies
Florida Pharmacy Political Committee
APCI
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals
Heathcare Consultants Pharmacy Staffing & Consulting
BSN Medical / JOBST
LECOM
AmerisourceBergen
Biopharma Technology LLC Cannabis Expertise Cardinal Health CVS Health
Merck & Co. Inc
Empire Pharmacy Consultants, LLC
Pharmaceutical Dimensions
Fast Fingerprints
Pharmacists Mutual Companies *Gold Sponsor
EPIC Pharmacies, Inc.
Florida Board of Pharmacy 14
Medical Technology Associates
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
Pass Assured Pfizer
Publix Pharmacy
QS/1
Sanofi
Smith Drug Company
United States Food and Drug Administration
University of Florida College of Pharmacy VUCA Health Walgreen Co
Westshore Financial Group
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION TOP LEFT Angela Hill, Ed Hamilton and Jeanette Connelly. TOP RIGHT Damien Simmons and Tanise Jackson. LEFT University of South Florida College of Pharmacy Dean Kevin Sneed, faculty and students.
Pharmacy students participating in the game show competition.
Luther Laite, Barbara Beadle, Scott Tomerlin, Teresa Tomerlin, Sharon Ramsey, Norm Tomaka and friend.
AUGUST 2015
|
15
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
Convention Sc
2017 Award Recipients Each year the Florida Pharmacy Association recognizes individuals who have shown their commitment to pharmacy in many exceptional ways. These award recipients continue
The following awards were presented during the 127th Annual Meeting and Convention at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando.
to strive for excellence in their profession, meeting challenges and opportunities while demonstrating their commitment to their respective communities.
Frank Toback/AZO Consultant Pharmacist Award presented by Tim Rogers to Luther Laite.
Jean Lamberti Mentorship Award presented by Kathy Petsos to Michael A Mone’.
DCPA Sidney Simkowitz Pharmacy Involvement Award presented by Joy Marcus to Raul Correa.
R.Q. Richards Pharmacy Public Relations Award presented by Scott Tomerlin to Jennifer Chen.
NASPA/APhA Bowl of Hygeia presented by Scott Tomerlin to Goar Alvarez. NASPA-Upsher Smith Excellence in Innovation Award presented by David Mackarey to Damien Simmons.
James H. Beal Pharmacist of the Year Award presented by Scott Tomerlin to Paul Ackerman.
16
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
Interamerican Pharmacist Association’s (IPA) Roman Maximo Corrons Inspiration & Motivation Award presented by Humberto Martinez to Jeanette Connelly.
Alton Tower Philanthropy Award presented by Todd Schmidt to Kathy Petsos. Pharmacists Mutual Companies Distinguished Young Pharmacist tAward presented by Sarah Sheppard and Brian Miller to Neha Patel. Norman Tomaka Family Service Award presented by Norm Tomaka to Jessica Castillo Greenwood. #1 Club New Member Certificate presented by Angela Garcia to Paul Delisser.
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
crapbook
Photography courtesy of Carol Porter, Stu Ulrich and Michael Jackson
Pharmacist’s Mate Award presented by Michael Jackson to Teresa Tomerlin.
Technician of the Year Award presented by Suzy Wise to Lydia Mayoral.
#1 Club New Member presented by Angela Garcia to Paul Delisser.
Technician of the Year Award presented by Suzy Wise to Lydia Mayoral.
Hamilton, Harris & Hobbs Student Presidential Award presented by Ed Hamilton, Betty Harris, and Mark Hobbs to Jennifer Marsh.
Student Patient Counseling Competition 1st Place - Bryan Figler, USF 2nd Place - Elizabeth Shald, UF 3rd Place - Ashleigh Beachy, LECOM
Cardinal Health Generation Rx Champions Award presented by Lenny Moro to Norman Tomaka.
Poster Presentation Awards 1st Place -- Michael Carulli, USF 2nd Place -- Chaudry Sadaf, PBAU 3rd Place -- Alison Sanders, LECOM
James H. Beal “Pharmacist of the Year” Award presented by Scott Tomerlin to Paul Ackerman. Pharmacist Mate Award presented by Michael Jackson to Teresa Tomerlin.
National Alliance of State Pharmacy Association Nonprescription Medicines Academy Game Show 1st Place: USF (Jennifer Marsh, Chelsea Campbell, Aubrey Garcia)
AUGUST 2015
|
17
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
127th Annual Meeting and Convention
The Jean Lamberti Mentorship Award presented by Kathy Petsos to Michael A Mone’.
DCPA Sidney Simkowitz Pharmacy Involvement Award presented by Joy Marcus to Raul Correa.
18
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
Frank Toback Award Consultant Pharmacist Award presented by Tim Rogers to Luther Laite.
NASPA-Upsher Smith Excellence in Innovation Award presented by David Mackarey to Damien Simmons.
NASPA/APHA Bowl of Hygeia recipient Goar Alvarez celebrating with his family.
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION Pharmacists Mutual Companies Distinguished Young Pharmacist Award presented by Sarah Sheppard and Brian Miller to Neha Patel.
Angela Garcia receives the gavel of leadership from FPA President Suzy Wise.
Florida Pharmacy Association Executive Vice President and CEO Michael Jackson and wife Tanise at the President’s Breakfast.
Former Board of Pharmacy member Lee Fallon (left) and current Board member Goar Alvarez (right) present the 50-year certificate to Jerry Jean Stambaugh.
Hillary Landers
AUGUST 2015
|
19
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
127th Annual Meeting and Convention
Norman Tomaka & Family Community Service Award presented by Norm Tomaka to Jessica Castillo Greenwood.
Interamerican Pharmacist Association’s Roman Maximo Corrons Inspiration & Motivation Award presented by Humberto Martinez to Jeanette Connelly.
2017 Alton Tower Philanthropy Award presented by Todd Schmidt to Kathy Petsos.
Adopt-A-Student The Florida Pharmacy Association would like to thank the 2017 Mentor Sponsors of the Adopt-AStudent program:
Hamilton, Harris & Hobbs Student Presidential Award presented by Ed Hamilton, Betty Harris, and Mark Hobbs to Jennifer Marsh.
20
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
Alachua County Pharmacy Association – Platinum Sponsor Brevard County Pharmacy Association – Gold Sponsor Duval County Pharmacy Association Bronze Sponsor Paul Ackerman Bronze Sponsor Peggy Alford Bronze Sponsor Stephanie Ellis Bronze Sponsor Terry Gubbins - Bronze Sponsor, Gold Sponsor Angela Hill - Bronze Sponsor Erik Jakab - Bronze Sponsor
Christina Laird Bronze Sponsor Carol Motycka Bronze Sponsor Kathy Petsos Bronze Sponsor Robert Renna Bronze Sponsor Michael/Melissa Ruble Bronze Sponsor Preston McDonald Matt Schneller Norman TomakaBronze Sponsor Scott Tomerlin – Silver Sponsor Theresa Tolle– Silver Sponsor
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION Unit Associations recognized by the House of Delegates. The following are the award recipients: Duval County Pharmacy Association (Association Involvement), Brevard County Pharmacy Association (Community Service), Alachua County Association of Pharmacists (Continuing Education), Palm Beach County Pharmacy Association (Membership) and Duval County Pharmacy Association (Public Relations)
University of South Florida College of Pharmacy Dean Kevin Sneed addresses the House of Delegates.
Current FPA President Suzy Wise and Past “First Lady” Teresa Tomerlin AUGUST 2015
|
21
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
2 0 1 7 F PA 5 0 -Y E A R P H A R M A C I S T S 50-Year Pharmacists Honored
Those who have served our profession as pharmacists for a half-century were honored at the 127th Annual Meeting and Convention. We are grateful for these pioneers who have seen our profession evolve over five decades and have played such an important role in making pharmacy what it is today.
TOP LEFT Art Diaz and his wife enjoy the dance floor. TOP RIGHT Tom Cuomo, Jeanette E. Connelly, Dean Pedalino, Angela Garcia. BOTTOM LEFT Theresa Tolle and Jonathan Marquess.
Emanuel Bellomo
Talmadge Lowe**
Orestes Cartaya**
Edwin Marco
Leo Fallon**
Alma McMillan**
Jane Forbes
Kenneth Norfleet**
Viviloria Frazier
Roy Parish Jr.
Carl Gaffin**
Jerry Stambaugh**
Stephen Glaros
David Teichman
Edmund Henry Jr.
Shannon Thornton
Joseph Janowski
Alfred Waldrep Jr.
Ken Jerkins**
Robert Wilson**
Jerry Kelley**
Lawrence Wolf
Ralph Kelley
Lawrence Wray
Joseph Koptowsky** Spero Krevatas
22
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
** denotes FPA lifetime member
FROM THE 127TH FPA CONVENTION
FPA RECOGNIZES THOSE WE LOST IN 2016-17
Norm Tomaka, Theresa Tolle, Kathy Baldwin, Teresa Tomerlin, Scott Tomerlin and Kathy Petsos.
During the 127th Annual Meeting and Convention in Ft. Lauderdale, the Florida Pharmacy Association recognized the passing of the following FPA members. We are grateful for their contributions and remember them with fondness and respect.
IN MEMORIAM* William Carter – Jacksonville John Davies – Orlando (Past President) Clay M. Fischer - Ponte Vedra Beach Marvin Gresham – Gainesville Bob Hoye – Lake City Aubrey Garcia, Bryan Figler, Sarah Haley and a friend.
Larry Katz – Miami Roger Lapp – Inverness Gordon Loy – Sarasota Ralph Mancusi - Fleming Island Jacob (Jack) Mitchel – Jacksonville William Shumate – Englewood
*This list is believed to be accurate as of the convention. If any names were omitted, please contact the FPA office. The FPA has a strong history of female leadership as shown by this gathering of the current and past presidents. AUGUST 2015
|
23
FPA News & Notes Alachua County Pharmacist Named Pharmacist of the Year PAUL ACKERMAN RECEIVES THE JAMES H. BEAL AWARD
The Florida Pharmacy Association is pleased to announce that Gainesville, Fla. pharmacist Paul Ackerman has been named “Pharmacist of the Year.” Ackerman attended the University of Florida, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. He is a member of the Dean’s Leadership Council for the College of Pharmacy at the University of Florida and a member of the UF Academy of Excellence. Though he is retired now, Paul’s primary practice was in community pharmacy having been on the team at Walgreens for 27 years. He is a past president of the Florida Pharmacy Association, serving in 1997-98. Winter Springs Pharmacist Installed as FPA President UF GRADUATE TO LEAD FPA 2017-18
During the 127th Annual Meeting and Convention held July 13 - 16, 2017 at the J. W. Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes Resort, Suzanne Wise of Seminole County was installed as president of the Florida Pharmacy Association (FPA). Suzy has held various leadership positions in both the FPA and the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) and was the first student to be appointed and serve as a member of the APhA Governmental Affairs Committee. She has also served on FPA’s Senior Leadership Committee as speaker of the House of Delegates. Suzy earned her Doctorate in Pharmacy and Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Florida, and has been an active member of the FPA since 2004. NSU’s College of Pharmacy Opens ICUBAcares Center As anyone who has started a new medicine recently will tell you, taking the drug properly, dealing with potential side effects and drug interactions, as well as getting insurance approval, can be overwhelming. Imagine how challenging it would be if you’re fighting cancer or even simply caring for a sick child while dealing with medication questions or problems. Nova Southeastern University’s College of Pharmacy
24
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
L to R – Brad Scholten (OptumRx); Suzie Lenart, Palm Beach Atlantic University (ICUBA member institution); Melissa Jimenez, Pharm.D. (NSU – ICUBAcares Pharmacist); Aisy Aleu, Pharm.D. (NSU – ICUBAcares pharmacist); Mark Weinstein, president & CEO (ICUBA); Mary Jo Hatch, COO (ICUBA); Lauren Mickler, Rollins College (ICUBA member institution); Goar Alvarez, Pharm.D., C.Ph., FASCP, assistant dean (NSU – ICUBAcares pharmacist); Connie Bennett, R.Ph. (OptumRx); Patti Williams-Pack (BCBS of Florida)
recently teamed up with the Independent Colleges and Universities Benefits Association (ICUBA) and OptumRX, to create ICUBAcares – a resource which provides more than 15,100 employees of Florida’s not-for-profit colleges, universities and other educational institutions with answers to a wide range of questions about their medications. “Research shows that pharmacists can help improve health outcomes,” explained Goar Alvarez, Pharm.D., C.Ph., FASCP, assistant dean and director, NSU Clinic Pharmacy. “Our goal is to educate as well as advocate for ICUBA members, empowering them through education and pharmacist care to make better health care choices.” Pharmacists and pharmacy interns from NSU’s College of Pharmacy will be staffing the ICUBAcares center Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. They can be reached by calling 954-262-2777 or toll-free at 800286-3967. Alvarez explained that the center will also be providing medication therapy management, reaching out to patients who take a large number of medications, or take problem-prone medications to help ensure they are taking the most appropriate and cost effective treatments for their conditions. “Problems can sometimes occur when a patient is seeing multiple doctors for different conditions,” said Alvarez. “We look at the patient’s total picture and work as a team with them, their doctors and pharmacists.” “The medication therapy management program is
designed to improve overall health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs and improve patient satisfaction with care. We anticipate that by empowering patients to better understand their therapies and take a more active role in their care, our pharmacists should be able to have an impact in reducing hospitalizations and emergency department visits,” Alvarez explained. Prescription Drug Importation Plan under Consideration With the debate under way in Washington, D.C., on the health care repeal legislation, amendments are going to be presented on various health care matters of interest to pharmacy. One such proposed amendment to be considered is a provision in S. 469 which would allow for the dispensing of drugs from a licensed foreign pharmacy to patients here in the U.S. The FPA by House of Delegates policy is unable to support such a change. This is a TAKE ACTION message to our membership. Transferring of Unfilled Controlled Substance Prescriptions The FPA has received a number of calls from the membership regarding the transferring and filling of controlled substance prescriptions. For example, a pharmacy
JOIN TODAY!
may receive a telephone order, fax, electronically prescribed or written prescription, but it is never dispensed. Instead the prescription is placed on file. Federal and state laws allow for the transfer of controlled substance prescription refills, however the laws are silent on the transfer of these prescription orders that have never been filled. The Association has received correspondence from the DEA that addresses the forwarding of unfilled prescriptions that are electronically transmitted to the originating pharmacy. The DEA has taken the position that unfilled, electronically prescribed controlled substance prescriptions (EPCS) can be forwarded from one DEAregistered retail pharmacy to another DEA-registered retail pharmacy. Interesting enough, this includes Schedule II controlled substance prescriptions The FPA’s general counsel has provided the following guidance on the above DEA policy statement: “I would caution that this is a policy and is, arguably, at odds with the text of the regulations. Thus, this could be changed on the whim of the administration. Also, pharmacists should take note of section 465.026, Florida Statutes which does not address transfers of new prescriptions.” – T.J. Morton, Esq., Lockwood Law Firm. 2018 Legislative Day and Health Fair Set Florida’s 2018 legislative session will begin much ear-
Representing Health Care Professionals
• DOH Investigations • Licensure Discipline • Medicare/Medicaid Defense • Administrative Hearings • Contract Litigation George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M.
1101 Douglas Avenue Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 Telephone: (407) 331-6620 www.TheHealthLawFirm.com
AUGUST 2017
|
25
“I’M ALWAYS WATCHING OUT FOR MY PATIENTS, BUT WHO’S WATCHING OUT FOR ME?”
WE ARE. We are the Alliance for Patient Medication Safety (APMS), a federally listed Patient Safety Organization. Our Pharmacy Quality Commitment (PQC) program: • • • •
Helps you implement and maintain a continuous quality improvement program Offers federal protection for your patient safety data and your quality improvement work Assists with quality assurance requirements found in network contracts, Medicare Part D, and state regulations Provides tools, training and support to keep your pharmacy running efficiently and your patients safe
Call toll free (866) 365-7472 or visit www.pqc.net PQC IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR STATE PHARMACY ASSOCIATION 26
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
lier next year, with a start date of Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018. We have calendared “Pharmacist Day at the Capitol” as Jan. 17, 2018 with the health fair on the 2nd floor of the Capitol Rotunda on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018. Mark your calendars and plan to “Connect Health Care.” Sunshine State Health Plan of Florida Claims Processing to CVS/Caremark (from AHCA) Effective Aug. 1, 2017, pharmacy providers for Sunshine State Health Plan of Florida Inc. will need to submit claims for payment to CVS/Caremark for Sunshine Managed Medical Assistance (MMA) and Sunshine Child Welfare plans. The pharmacy claims processing information for Sunshine MMA and Sunshine Child Welfare enrollees through CVS/Caremark is noted below: RXBIN: 004336 RXPCN: MCAIDADV RXGRP: RX5441 (Medicaid) Member ID Format: 9 digits Sunshine MMA enrollees will be eligible for a 60-day continuity of care period for existing authorized prescription refills and Sunshine Child Welfare enrollees will be eligible for a 90-day continuity of care period for existing authorized prescription refills. The continuity of care period ends on Sept. 30, 2017 for Sunshine MMA enrollees and Oct. 30, 2017 for Sunshine Child Welfare enrollees. For more information regarding the continuity of care requirements, please see: https://ahca.myflorida.com/Medicaid/statewide_mc/pdf/mma/Continuity_of_Care_Requirements.pdf For questions regarding the network or contract-related inquiries, please email pharmacynetworkteam@envolvehealth.com or call provider services at 1-800-311-0539.
claim. The medical records request will then be sent to that contact person. BACKGROUND ON PERM:
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services developed this program to comply with the Improper Payments Information Act (IPIA) of 2002 (amended in 2010 by the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act or IPERA) and related guidance issued by the Office of Management and Budget. The PERM error rates are based on reviews of the feefor-service, managed care, and eligibility components of Medicaid and CHIP in the federal fiscal year under review. It is important to note the error rate is not a “fraud rate” but simply a measurement of payments made that did not meet statutory, regulatory or administrative requirements.
Payment Error Contractor for Florida Medicaid (from AHCA) The Payment Error Rate Measurement (PERM) program measures improper payments in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Beginning in August 2017, the PERM review contractor, CNI Advantage LLC, will contact all Medicaid and CHIP providers whose claims were selected for the first quarter of Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2017 (Oct. 1 - Dec. 31, 2016) to request medical records for these claims. The purpose of this alert is to remind you that, if selected, you must comply with the medical records request. In an effort to reduce the PERM error rate for this cycle, the Agency for Health Care Administration will send a letter to inform providers of their selection and the importance of submitting the requested medical records to the review contractor within the 75-day time frame. Shortly after receiving this letter, selected providers will receive a call from a CNI Advantage LLC representative to verify the contact person and location to mail and/ or fax the medical records request containing the sampled
AUGUST 2017
|
27
florida BUYER’S GUIDE 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.
PHARMACY RESOURCES PPSC Retail Pharmacy Purchasing Program (888) 778-9909
LEGAL ASSISTANCE Kahan & Associates, PLLC Brian A. Kahan, R.Ph., Attorney at Law (561) 392-9000 The Health Law Firm George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M. (407) 331-6620
PHARMACEUTICAL WHOLESALER McKesson Drug Company Jim Springer (800) 804-4590 FAX: (863) 616-2953
FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS AHCA MEDICAID PHARMACY SERVICES 2727 Mahan Drive Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 412-4166 www.fdhc.state.fl.us/medicaid/ pharmacy AMERICAN PHARMACISTS ASSOCIATION (APhA) Washington, D.C. (800) 237-2742 www.pharmacist.com 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 (800) 222-1222 www.fpicn.org 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. 28
|
FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY
RECOVERING PHARMACISTS NETWORK OF FLORIDA (407) 257-6606 “Pharmacists Helping Pharmacists”