The Official Publication Of The Florida Pharmacy Association DEC. 2010
Happy Holidays from the Florida Pharmacy Association
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). PLEASE PRINT INSCRIPTION
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 21 Buyer’s Guide
VOL. 73 | NO. 12 DECEMBER 2010 the official publication of the florida pharmacy association
Features
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Managing Diabetes During the Holidays FPA News
DECEMBER 2010
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FPA Calendar 2010-2011
December 24 - 27 Christmas Holiday FPA Office Closed 31
FPA Office Closed for New Year JANUARY 2011
17
Martin Luther King Birthday FPA Office closed
29 - 30 FPA Consultant Conference Sandestin, FL 31
Election Ballots Due FEBRUARY
8 - 9
Board of Pharmacy Meeting Location TBA
28
Awards Nomination Due
of the Florida Pharmacy Today Journal MARCH
8
Legislative Session Begins
9 - 10 NACDS RxIMPACT Washington, DC 15
Last day to submit resolutions
15 - 16 Pharmacist Days at the Legislature 16
Mission Statements:
Pharmacists Health Fair at Florida's Capitol
19 - 20 FPA Council and Committee Meetings 25 - 28 APhA Annual Meeting Seattle, Washington
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 Boardof 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.
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, 2011 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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Advertisers Healthcare consultants........................ 3 Kahan ◆ SHIR, P.L.......................................... 11 PPSC.................................................................... 12 Rx RElief.......................................................... 11
Change in Journal Printing Schedule Due to the importance and timeliness of the immunization study released last month, the Journal board decided to print the August issue in addition to posting it online as scheduled. This schedule change will result in the October, November and December issues of the Florida Pharmacy Journal being posted online and not printed. The next printed journal will be January 2011.
E-mail your suggestions/ideas to dave@fiorecommunications.com
The President’s Viewpoint HUMBERTO MARTINEZ, FPA President
W
Value of FPA Membership Still Unclear for Too Many
e are now almost halfway through my term as President of our association, and I have traveled a lot representing the FPA at various functions. Recently, I was invited to give the Florida welcome greeting to the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists in Orlando. There were over a thousand pharmacists from all over the country in attendance, and these pharmacists see a value in being a part of their association. We have over 25,000 licensed pharmacist in the state of Florida, and only a little over 2,000 are members of the Florida Pharmacy Association. Our members see a value in being part of the association, and the others do not. I would like to challenge each of our members to talk to a non-member and tell them the value that you see in our association. If we each can convince one person to join, we can double our membership. Everyone sees a different value in our association. Some like the networking aspect for sharing expertise. Others see us as a source to overcome common challenges. And our members like to build worthwhile relationships throughout our profession. Whatever the value may be to you, this can be communicated to at least one other person and then they can realize the benefits of being a part of this association. I also attended an independent pharmacy owners meeting in Miami. It was amazing to talk to several owners and hear from them that they have no clue as to what is going on with the practice of pharmacy throughout the state. When asked where they get their information about the changes in the practice of pharmacy, they tell us that
they receive all their information from their wholesaler. Michael Jackson gave a presentation on the changes in pharmacy, and I talked a little about my experience as an independent pharmacy owner and the benefits of membership
There is a lot of misinformation out there, and it is not easy to find the correct information. The best place to get this information is membership in our association. The FPA is a source for the latest information and in keeping with our theme, “A strong foundation for positive outcomes.” in the FPA. My main point was that you have to be informed about what is going on in the practice of pharmacy to keep you in business and help your patients in the best way possible. There is a lot of misinformation out there, and it is not easy to find the correct information. The best place to get this information is membership in our association. The FPA is a source for the latest infor-
Humberto Martinez, 2010-2011 FPA President
mation and in keeping with our theme, “A strong foundation for positive outcomes.” The law conference in Sarasota was attended by over 300 pharmacists, and the latest changes in pharmacy were presented. Every member should go to one of our annual law conferences, that are offered throughout the state. I always come away with some new information and I bring it back to my practice and share with my pharmacy team. The Board of Pharmacy informed us that over 11,000 registered pharmacy technicians will lose their registration at the end of the year for lack of additional documentation. These pharmacy technicians registered with the BOP but did not provide them with the documentation needed to extend their registration through December 2012. If not received by December 31, 2010, then their registrations with be voided. Next year, the only documentation that will DECEMBER 2010
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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.
Karen Whalen.......................................................................... Chairman of the Board Humberto Martinez..................................................................................FPA President Robert Parrado........................................................................................ President Elect Don Bergemann.....................................................................................................Treasurer William Riffee.............................................Speaker of the House of Delegates Suzanne Wise............ Vice Speaker of the House of DelegatesPreston Preston McDonald, Director............................................................................ Region 1 Marcus Dodd-o, Director .................................................................................Region 2 Al Tower, Director ..................................................................................................Region 3 Raul N. Correa, Director ...................................................................................Region 4 John Noriega, Director ......................................................................................Region 5 Chris Lent, Director...............................................................................................Region 6 Kim Murray, Director............................................................................................ Region 7 Raul Gallo, Director.................................................................................................Region 8 Zachary Eisenman, Interim Director........................................................Region 9 Alissa Fuller................................................................................................ President FSHP Michael Jackson........................................Executive Vice President and CEO
Florida Pharmacy Today Journal Board Chair................................................................. Betty Harris, beejpharm@gmail.com Vice Chair...........................................Jennifer Pytlarz, jlc_rxdoc@hotmail.com Treasurer....................Stephen Grabowski, sgrabowski@seniormmc.com Secretary...................................................................Stuart Ulrich, Stuarx@aol.com Member............................................................. Don Bergemann, don@bceinfo.com Member.................................................Joseph Koptowsky, docjik1215@aol.com Executive Editor................Michael Jackson, mjackson@pharmview.com Managing Editor...................Dave Fiore, dave@fiorecommunications.com
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be accepted is proof of completion of a pharmacy technician training course. If these expired registrants want to renew their registration, then they will have to pay the registration fee again and provide proof of completion of this training course. Some of these pharmacy technicians may not be aware that their registrations will expire at the end of the year. But, they will find out when the BOP inspectors go out to the pharmacies for inspections next year. This is another good example of a benefit of membership in an association. This information has been given to our members and they have been informed of all of these changes, well before they started. The FPA is offering a pharmacy technician training course for employers, and the information can be found on our website: pharmview.com. The employer has to submit the application for approval of their employer-based training program and these documents are also available on our website. This may be the only option they have if one of their employed pharmacy technicians failed to extend their registration for lack of additional documentation. This way, they can keep this employee after registering them for their employer-based training program. I would like to wish all of you a Happy Holiday season and a Merry Christmas. I will be seeing all of you next year, and have a Happy New Year. n
Executive Insight By Michael Jackson, FPA Executive by michael jackson,Vice RPhPresident/CEO
A
What Did Y210K Do to Our Profession?
s we bring to a close the first decade of the new millennium, we have much to be thankful for, however, we still have much work to do. It seems only a few short years ago that the world was on the brink of perceived catastrophe over the possibility that electric grids, the Internet and total chaos would result from something as innocent as a computer dating issue with the year 2000. As it turns out, it appears that 2001 gave us all an opportunity to try on new computer systems and software. The profession of pharmacy is to some degree facing its own “Y2K” adventure. Let’s call this our Y210K Reset Plan. What needs to happen is a renaissance of the practice of pharmacy. Payers have found all kinds of tools to get to the net cost of pharmacy reimbursement. Many states and national associations have been fighting over the issues related to average manufacturer pricing (AMP). Alabama is even moving forward with its own version of actual acquisition cost (AAC). You may not be aware of this, but it is highly possible that Florida Medicaid is already at the flawed AMP pricing that has caused quite a stir across the United States. Prescription drug plans have undertaken an aggressive campaign to recover the cost of prescription drugs through what some pharmacy owners say are terroristic attacks on business profits. Indeed the recoupment of dollars from dispensing medications is unwarranted when evidence can be produced that the patient received the drug, the prescriber ordered the medication and the patient got better from the therapy. These efforts to recoup dol-
lars are labeled as fraud when all that can be found are simple clerical errors. How can you criminalize something as innocent as a DEA number not published on the face of a prescription? If a pharmacy is to be penalized for these honest mistakes then fine, take back the dispensing fee but some could call it theft when you extract back not only the professional fee but also the phar-
The profession of pharmacy is to some degree facing its own “Y2K” adventure. Let’s call this our Y210K Reset Plan. What needs to happen is a renaissance of the practice of pharmacy.
macy’s ingredient cost that clearly was transferred into the hands of the ultimate consumer. Why am I throwing stuff like this at you? Well, it seems clear to me that those who pay for prescription drugs see what we do as providing a product more than providing a badly needed professional service. $177 billion to correct medication therapy related problems can be a big health care bill for this country to pay. In September
Michael Jackson, B.Pharm
of this year, the Drug Enforcement Administration facilitated a national take back program for prescription drugs. According to a press release, the combined weight of drugs collected in this program was 121 tons -- equal to the weight of two fully loaded 737 jet aircraft. While the drugs surrendered was substantial, this did not include medications that are still sitting in medicine cabinets all over this country from patients who did not take part in the DEA program. That is a lot of pills, tablets and capsules that were dispensed to patients and for one reason or another never taken. All those medications were dispensed and likely paid for by health plans, Medicaid and Medicare. My question to the payers is how long do they want this to go on and refuse to acknowledge and endorse the benefits and value of the training of today’s American pharmacist? Think back to the years 2001 and 2003 when the FPA embarked on a DECEMBER 2010 |
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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 Florida Pharmacy Today Board Chair..................................Betty Harris, Lighthouse Point Vice Chair.................................. Jennifer Pytlarz, Brandon Treasurer...............................Stephen Grabowski, Tampa Secretary.........................Stuart Ulrich, Boynton Beach Member................. Don Bergemann, don@bceinfo.com Member..................................... Joseph Koptowsky, Miami Executive Editor.........Michael Jackson, Tallahassee Managing Editor.........................Dave Fiore, Tallahassee
This is a peer reviewed publication. ©2010, FLORIDA PHARMACY JOURNAL, INC. ARTICLE ACCEPTANCE: The Florida Pharmacy Today is a publication that welcomes articles that have a direct pertinence to the current practice of pharmacy. All articles are subject to review by the Publication Review Committee, editors and other outside referees. Submitted articles are received with the understanding that they are not being considered by another publication. All articles become the property of the Florida Pharmacy Today and may not be published without written permission from both the author and the Florida Pharmacy Today. The Florida Pharmacy Association assumes no responsibility for the statements and opinions made by the authors to the Florida Pharmacy Today. The Journal of the Florida Pharmacy Association does not accept for publication articles or letters concerning religion, politics or any other subject the editors/ publishers deem unsuitable for the readership of this journal. In addition, The Journal does not accept advertising material from persons who are running for office in the association. The editors reserve the right to edit all materials submitted for publication. Letters and materials submitted for consideration for publication may be subject to review by the Editorial Review Board. FLORIDA PHARMACY TODAY, Annual subscription - United States and foreign, Individual $36; Institution $70/year; $5.00 single copies. Florida residents add 7% sales tax. Florida Pharmacy Association
610 N. Adams St. • Tallahassee, FL 32301 850/222-2400 • FAX 850/561-6758 Web Address: http://www.pharmview.com 8 |
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number of patient care initiatives such as the Medicaid Quality Related Events project and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Diabetes 10 Cities Challenge. Those programs proved that the interventions by pharmacists can make a difference. The FPA being successful at changing laws to allow pharmacist immunization services will surely create a landscape here in Florida with
reading this article because you are members of the Florida Pharmacy Association. You believe in our message and in our mission. What we need to do is to convince the thousands of our colleagues out there that it is critical that they get involved and be a voice in the direction that their profession is headed. We (the FPA leadership, and you the membership), cannot possibly carry an
The FPA being successful at changing laws to allow pharmacist immunization services will surely create a landscape here in Florida with less suffering and disease for adult patients who received the 1 million plus vaccines administered by pharmacists this past flu season. less suffering and disease for adult patients who received the 1 million plus vaccines administered by pharmacists this past flu season. The patient care initiatives proved their value and worth, but the challenges were that the current practice model is tied to a low gross reimbursement system of delivering product. This is hampering the growth of a real innovation and beneficial medication therapy management (MTM) services. Our members wanted to practice this early form of MTM but their dispensing obligations took priority. This is not to say that pharmacists should be relieved of their involvement in dispensing. If that happens, then the patient has no reason or incentive to see or ask for our services. So what is it that we need to do? I don’t need to convince those of you
entire profession through these storms on our own. The thousands of our nonmember colleagues need to be encouraged to belong to their professional association that fights for them. You talk to them every day and see them in your communities. It is very likely that the next pharmacist that you talk to over the telephone is not a member of the FPA. If they want to know why they need to join, challenge them to come to come to Tallahassee on March 15-16, 2011, for the annual Pharmacist Day at the Capitol. If they don’t get the message there, then we are at risk of being confined to second-class citizenship in the health care provider market. Y210k will be a much greater and significant event for pharmacy than Y2K was for the computing and software industry. n
Managing Diabetes During the Holidays Having diabetes shouldn’t stop you from enjoying holiday celebrations and travel. With some planning and a little work, you can stay healthy on the road and at holiday gatherings with friends and family. Preparation is the key to managing diabetes during holiday travel and festivities. Know what you’ll be eating, how to enjoy a few traditional favorites while sticking with a healthy meal plan, and how to pack necessary supplies for a trip, and you’re all set to celebrate! Feasts and Parties Before you go, take these steps to make sure you stick to your healthy meal plan. ■■ Eat a healthy snack to avoid overeating at the party. ■■ Ask what food will be served, so you can see how it fits into your meal plan. ■■ Bring a nutritious snack or dish for yourself and others. You don’t have to give up all of your holiday favorites if you make healthy choices and limit portion sizes. At a party or holiday gathering, follow these tips to avoid overeating and to choose healthy foods. ■■ If you’re at a buffet, fix your plate and move to another room away from the food, if possible. ■■ Choose smaller portions. ■■ Choose low-calorie drinks such as sparkling water, unsweetened tea or diet beverages. If you select an alcoholic beverage, limit it to one drink a day for women, two for men, and drink only with a meal. ■■ Watch out for heavy holiday favorites such as hams coated with a honey glaze, turkey swimming in gravy and side dishes loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese or mayonnaise. Instead, choose turkey without gravy and trim off the skin, or other lean meats. ■■ Look for side dishes and vegetables that are light on butter, dressing and
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other extra fats and sugars, such as marshmallows or fried vegetable toppings. Watch the salt. Some holiday favorites are made with prepared foods high in sodium. Choose fresh or frozen vegetables that are low in sodium. Select fruit instead of pies, cakes and other desserts high in fat, cholesterol and sugar. Focus on friends, family and activities instead of food. Take a walk after a meal, or join in the dancing at a party.
Traveling for the Holidays Leaving home to visit friends and family means changing routines. Make sure you remember to take care of your diabetes while traveling. Check blood glucose (sugar) more often than usual, because a changing schedule can affect levels. Remember Your Medication ■■ Pack twice the amount of diabetes supplies you expect to need, in case of travel delays. ■■ Keep snacks, glucose gel, or tablets with you in case your blood glucose drops. ■■ Make sure you keep your medical insurance card and emergency phone numbers handy, including your doctor’s name and phone number. ■■ Carry medical identification that says you have diabetes. ■■ Keep time zone changes in mind so you’ll know when to take medication. ■■ If you use insulin, make sure you also pack a glucagon emergency kit. ■■ Keep your insulin cool by packing it in an insulated bag with refrigerated gel packs. On the Road and in the Air ■■ Get an influenza vaccination before traveling, unless your medical provider instructs otherwise. Get the
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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
flu shot, not the nasal spray. Wash hands often with soap and water. Try to avoid contact with sick people. Reduce your risk for blood clots by moving around every hour or two. Pack a small cooler of foods that may be difficult to find while traveling, such as fresh fruit, sliced raw vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat yogurt. Bring a few bottles of water instead of sweetened soda or juice. Pack dried fruit, nuts, and seeds as snacks. Since these foods can be high in calories, measure out small portions (¼ cup) in advance. If you’re flying and do not want to walk through the metal detector with your insulin pump, tell a security officer that you are wearing an insulin pump and ask them to visually inspect the pump and do a fullbody pat-down. Place all diabetes supplies in carryon luggage. Keep medications and snacks at your seat for easy access. Don’t store them in overhead bins. Have all syringes and insulin delivery systems (including vials of insulin) clearly marked with the pharmaceutical preprinted label that identifies the medications. Keep it in the original pharmacy labeled packaging. If a meal will be served during your flight, call ahead for a diabetic, low fat, or low cholesterol meal. Wait until your food is about to be served before you take your insulin. If the airline doesn’t offer a meal, bring a nutritious meal yourself. Make sure to pack snacks in case of flight delays. When drawing up your dose of insulin, don’t inject air into the bottle (the air on your plane will probably be pressurized). Stick with your routine for staying active. Make sure to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week. DECEMBER 2010
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FPA News Purdue Announces Development of Butrans REMS Purdue Pharma L.P. would like to announce t he development of a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) for Butrans™ (buprenorphine) Transdermal System. Working with the FDA, Purdue has developed a REMS for Butrans (buprenorphine) Transdermal System. The goals of the Butrans REMS Program are: ■■ To inform patients and healthcare professionals about the potential for abuse, misuse, and overdose from, and addiction to Butrans; and ■■ To inform patients and healthcare professionals about the safe use of Butrans
Potential for Abuse
Please visit www.butransrems.com which provides important information for healthcare professionals as well as patients and caregivers.
During mid November the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) published an invitation to negotiate (ITN) for vendor pharmacies to bid for a mail order program for 20,000 chronically ill Florida Medicaid recipients. It is AHCA’s intent to issue only one contract for these services which would likely mean that these patients could be served by only one mail order pharmacy provider.
The section for patients and caregivers provides ■■ A medication guide ■■ Instructions for using Butrans The healthcare professionals section includes: ■■ Dear Healthcare Professional Letter ■■ Healthcare Provider Training Guide ■■ Training Confirmation Form The Full Prescribing Information for Butrans™ contains the following Boxed Warning: WARNING: IMPORTANCE OF PROPER PATIENT SELECTION, POTENTIAL FOR ABUSE, AND LIMITATIONS OF USE
Proper Patient Selection
Butrans is a transdermal formulation of buprenorphine indicated for the management of moderate to severe chronic pain in patients requiring a continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesic for an extended period of time. (1)
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Butrans contains buprenorphine which is a mu opioid partial agonist and a Schedule III controlled substance. Butrans can be abused in a manner similar to other opioid agonists, legal or illicit. Consider the abuse potential when prescribing or dispensing Butrans in situations where the physician or pharmacist is concerned about an increased risk of misuse, abuse, or diversion. (9) Limitations of Use
Do not exceed a dose of one 20 mcg/hour Butrans system due to the risk of QTc interval prolongation. (2.3) Avoid exposing the Butrans application site and surrounding area to direct external heat sources. Temperature-dependent increases in buprenorphine release from the system may result in overdose and death. (5.11) Medicaid Mail Order Defense Fund Members Asked to Make Contributions What is this defense fund for?
What can be done about this?
The FPA has filed a formal protest against the Agency for Health Care Administration’s efforts to facilitate this mail order program. This initial filing by the FPA has resulted in postponement of any solicitation activities by the state until further notice. During the 2010 Legislative session the FPA successfully fought back repeated attempts to put into place a mail order program for Medicaid patients (see June 2010 issue of Florida Pharmacy Today). This mail order program however, was inserted into the state’s budget during negotiations between the House and Senate. This proposal in effect requires the Agency to identify 20,000 chronically ill Medicaid patients that could be eligible for mail order. This was done in such a way that made it impossible for public input or debate.
Why is it necessary to challenge this issue?
The FPA is concerned that such a program would undermine quality and continuity of care. Some of the issues include but are not limited to the following: 1) Patients, particularly the developmentally disabled may not understand their need to stay with their current pharmacist of record and would feel compelled to accept the mail order offer. Official letters from the Agency for Health Care Administration are overwhelmingly suggestive to Florida’s indigent. These patients may feel forced to go to mail order or risk losing their prescription drug benefits. 2) The coordination of care is essential to facilitating positive quality outcomes. Patients under this plan may find themselves having to use more than one pharmacy. They will likely get their maintenance medications from the contracted mail order facility and their acute care medications from other providers. This is not a good model for patient care in today’s health care environment. 4) Small family owned pharmacies cannot possibly compete with well financed and heavily resourced mail
order facilities submitting bid proposals to AHCA and navigating their extremely complex invitation to negotiate process. In some cases if a large mail order provider who also happens to be the claims processor for independent pharmacy providers wins the bid then they will likely use their data mining capabilities to divert non-chronically ill patients away from these small businesses. 5) Many community pharmacy providers are already using mail and other delivery services to patients that are home bound or in remote locations. This proposal may take that service away from Florida businesses for some patients. How will this issue affect me?
If you are a Florida Medicaid pharmacy provider it is very likely that some of these patients are currently being taken care of by you. You may discover that these patients could be encouraged to use a mail order pharmacy for their maintenance drugs. While on the surface it appears that the number of patients is small the FPA believes that this represents a significant amount of the spending in the Medicaid population. You will also be
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challenged with managing their prescription drug therapy without the benefit of their full history. What will my contribution be used for?
All of your support of this effort will go into a restricted account towards the direct costs related to this protest. This includes lawyer and consultant fees and expenses, filing fees and other direct litigation costs. What are my contribution limits?
Personal and corporate funds will be accepted and there are no limits to the amount that you can give. Your corporate contributions may be tax deductible as a business expense. Consult your accountant for more information.
How can I make a contribution?
The FPA has created a special section of our web site on Pharmview.com specifically for this defense fund campaign or you can download a form and send in a check or money order payable to the Florida Pharmacy Association. Please note in the memo field that the check or money order is for the Medicaid Mail Order Defense Fund. Recommended levels of support include the following: SUGGESTED CONTRIBUTION
Donor Supporter Bronze Supporter Gold Supporter Diamond Supporter Platinum Supporter
Work Smarter Independent…But Not Alone. PPSC is Your Partner for Success For more on how PPSC can maximize the potential of your independent pharmacy, visit www.ppsconline.com or call toll-free 888-778-9909.
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$100 $500 $1,000 $1,500 $2,000 $5,000
PPSC can help your independent pharmacy become more efficient and productive through its innovative Work Smarter programs and services. PPSC can help you: ENHANCE operational workflows AUTOMATE dispensing, product returns and Part B billing REDUCE claim resubmissions INCREASE your profits
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) 2222400 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 Pro-
grams
Monthly Issues of the Florida Pharmacy
Today Journal
Hertz Now when you rent from Hertz, you can take advantage of special year-round savings through the Hertz Member Benefit Program. Florida Pharmacy Association members receive a discount off Hertz Daily Member Benefit Rates, Hertz U.S. Standard Rates; and Hertz U.S. Leisure Rates. You'll be quoted the best rate for your rental needs at the time of reservation. See the FPA web site for more details or call the FPA office. 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.
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Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services National Medicare Multi-Media & Education Campaign Get the Flu Vaccination--not the Flu! No Cost – No Excuses The Food and Drug Administration recently announced that it has approved vaccines for the 2010-2011 influenza seasons and that the seasonal influenza vaccine protects against three strains of influenza: • • •
A/California 7/2009 (H1N1) – like virus A/perth /16/2009 (H3N2) – like virus B/Brisbane/60/2008 – like virus
As a health care provider, you are the first line of defense in communicating to your patients the importance of getting vaccinated. It is equally important for you and your health care staff to be vaccinated as well. Key messages to share with your patients include: • •
•
•
•
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The flu vaccine is at no additional out-of-pocket cost. There is no coinsurance or copayment applied to this benefit, and they will not have to meet their deductible. The flu vaccine can prevent the flu; it does not give people the flu. Getting a flu vaccine is the best thing you can do to keep you from getting sick this flu season. This year, one flu vaccine will protect you from three different types of flu virus, including the 2009 H1N1 virus that caused much illness last season. Additionally, by protecting yourself, you are also protecting those you care about from getting the flu from you. All adults age 65 years and older, and people who are under 65 who have chronic illness, including heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or end-stage renal disease should get a flu vaccine. Refer your patients to www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227) to get a free copy of “Staying Healthy: Medicare’s Preventive Services.” TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. Additionally, for non-Medicare patients, beginning Sept. 23, 2010, health plans will be required to cover recommended preventive services without charging copayments, co-insurance or deductibles.
Flor i d a P h a rm a c y Tod a Y
GET THE FLU VACCINE, NOT THE FLU. Flu vaccines are covered for people with Medicare and Medicaid/CHIP. For information, call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov or www.insurekidsnow.gov.
OBTENGA VACUNA DE GRIPE, NO LA GRIPE. Medicare, Medicaid/CHIP pagan por las vacunas de gripe. Para informaci贸n, llame al 1-800-MEDICARE o vis铆tenos en www.medicare.gov o www.insurekidsnow.gov.
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C a ll
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Bowl of Hygeia Awarded to a pharmacist for outstanding community service above and beyond professional duties. The use of the following selection criteria is required: ■■ The recipient must be a Florida licensed pharmacist and a member of FPA. ■■ ■■ T recipient has not previously received the award. ■■ on its award committee or an officer of the association in other than an ex officio capacity. ■■ has compiled an outstanding record of community service, which, apart from his/her specific identification as a pharmacist, reflects well on the profession. James H. Beal Award Awarded to the "Pharmacist of the Year." The criteria established for this award is that the recipient be a Florida registered pharmacist and a member of FPA, who has rendered outstanding service to pharmacy within the past five years.
Criteria:
■■ must be a Florida reg-
istered pharmacist and a member of the FPA. ■■ has rendered outstanding service to pharmacy within the past five years.
Technician of the Year Award Awarded annually to a Florida pharmacy technician who is recognized for his/her outstanding performance and achievement during his/ her career. Criteria:
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N om i n a t i on s ■■
■■
■■
■■
■■
Candidate must be a member of the Florida Pharmacy Association for at least 2 years. Candidate must have demonstrated contributions and dedication to the advancement of pharmacy technician practice. Candidate must have demonstrated contributions to the Florida Pharmacy Association and/or other pharmacy organizations. Candidate must have demonstrated commitment to community service. Candidate is not a past recipient of this award.
R.Q. Richards Award This award is based on outstanding achievement in the field of pharmaceutical public relations in Florida.
Criteria:
■■ recipient must be a Florida reg-
istered pharmacist and a member of the FPA. ■■ has displayed outstanding achievement in the field of pharmaceutical public relations in Florida. Frank Toback/AZO Consultant Pharmacist Award
Criteria:
■■ Candidate must be an FPA member,
registered with the Florida Board of Pharmacy as a consultant pharmacist in good standing. ■■ Candidate should be selected based on their outstanding achievements in the field of consultant pharmacy. DCPA Sidney Simkowitz Pharmacy Involvement Award
Presented annually to a Florida pharmacist who has been active at the local and state pharmacy association level in advancement of the profession of pharmacy in Florida.
F P A
Criteria:
■■ A minimum of five years of active
involvement in and contributions to the local association and FPA. ■■ Candidate must have held office at local level pharmacy association. ■■ Member in good standing for a period of at least five years in the FPA and must have served as a member or chairman of a committee of the association. ■■ Candidate must have been actively involved in a project that has or could potentially be of benefit to members of the profession. Pharmacists Mutual Companies Distinguished Young Pharmacist Award Awarded to a young pharmacist for their involvement and dedication to the practice of pharmacy. Criteria: ■■ Licensed to practice for nine (9) years or less. ■■ Licensed to practice in the state in which selected. ■■ Participation in national pharmacy association, professional programs, and/or community service. IPA Roman Maximo Corrons Inspiration & Motivation Award Interamerican Pharmacists Association created this award to honor the memory of Roman M. Corrons who inspired and motivated countless pharmacists to participate actively and aspire to take on leadership roles in their profession. Roman was always there with guidance and support that motivated pharmacists and encouraged visionary leadership, approachable active membership and succession planning. This award recognizes the motivators among us who inspire others to continue to advance the profession. Criteria:
A W AR D S
2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 1
The recipient must be a Florida Licensed Pharmacist and a member of the FPA. ■■ Candidate should motivate others to excel within the profession by encouraging them to be leaders. ■■ Candidate is not necessarily an association officer, but guides, supports and/or inspires others. A brief description on the candidate’s motivational/inspirational skills must accompany the nomination.
perience with pharmacist candidates. The award is named in honor of long time FPA member Jean Lamberti for her effort in working with pharmacy students. Criteria
The Jean Lamberti Mentorship Award
Awarded to honor practicing pharmacists who have demonstrated innovation in pharmacy practice that has resulted in improved patient care. Criteria:
■■
The Jean Lamberti Mentorship Award was established in 1998 to honor those pharmacists who have taken time to share their knowledge and ex-
■■ The recipient must be an FPA mem-
ber.
■■ The recipient must serve as a role
model for the profession of pharmacy.
vative pharmacy practice resulting in improved patient care. ■■ The recipient should be a practicing pharmacist within the geographic area represented by the presenting Association. Qualified Nominee: A pharmacist practicing within the geographic area represented by the presenting Association.
Innovative Pharmacy Practice Award
■■ The recipient has demonstrated inno-
Deadline FOR NOMINATIONS: February 28, 2011 F P A A W AR D S NOMINATION F ORM I am pleased to submit the following nomination:
Nominated by:
Name:
Name:
Address:
Date Submitted: Signature:
For the following Award: (Nomination Deadline February 28, 2011) Bowl of Hygeia Award James H. Beal Award
Please describe briefly below the nominee's accomplishments, indicating why you feel he or she should receive this award. (Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
R.Q. Richards Award Frank Toback/AZO Consultant Pharmacist Award DCPA Sydney Simkowitz Award Pharmacists Mutual Co. Distinguished Young Pharmacist Award Academy of Pharmacy Practice Practitioner Merit Award The Jean Lamberti Mentorship Award IPA Roman Maximo Corrons Inspiration & Motivation Award Innovative Pharmacy Practice Award Technician of the Year Award
Mail nominatons to: Annual Awards, Florida Pharmacy Association, 610 N. Adams St., Tallahassee, FL 32301 (850) 222-2400 FAX (850) 561-6758 DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS IS FEBRUARY 28, 2011
DECEMBER 2010
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CALL FOR RESOLUTIONS TO THE 2011 HOUSE OF DELEGATES The House of Delegates Board of Directors will meet in March 2011 to review and approve resolutions for the Annual Meeting. The deadline for submitting resolutions is March 15, 2011! PLEASE NOTE THIS DEADLINE.
The following information will be needed when submitting resolutions: 1. Name of organization: The name of the organization submitting the resolutions(s); 2. Name and telephone number of individuals: A contact in the event clarification Or further information is needed; 3. Problem: A statement of the problem addressed by the resolution; 4. Intent: A statement of what passage of the resolution will accomplish; 5. Resolution Format: (please type and use double spacing) Title of Resolution Name of Organization Whereas
, and
Whereas
:
Therefore be it Resolved (that the FPA or Subdivision of FPA)
Contact name and phone #: Problem: Intent:
DECEMBER 2010
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Employer Based Technician Training Program for all Florida Pharmacies The FPA has made it easy for you to file for approval for your employer based training program with the Board for approval. Once approved you can enroll your technicians in the comprehensive modules.
training
The cost per
technician
is
$290.
Technicians who join the FPA as members only pay 250. It should take about 160
hours
technician
to
for
your
complete
the program.
The Florida Pharmacy Association partnering with PassAssured of Orange Texas is pleased to present a web based employer based technician training program for Florida pharmacies. Florida Statutes 465.014 requires pharmacy technicians to register with the Florida Department of Health. To be eligible for registration technicians must complete a Board approved training program as defined under rule 64B16-26.351.
This program is designed to supplement your on-site training program for pharmacy technicians.
All employer based technician training programs must be approved by the Florida Board of Pharmacy. The FPA is offering assistance to pharmacies in their efforts to get their training programs approved. Simply follow the steps published on the FPA web site in the shopping cart where the program’s information is published. There is no cost to apply to the Board. Send us your contact information and we will be glad to help you. Name _______________________________ Address _________________________________
610 North Adams Street Tallahassee, Florida Phone: (850) 222-2400 Fax: (850) 561-6758 E-mail: fpa@pharmview.com
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City _________________________ State _______________ Zip Code ____________________ E-mail address ________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Fax _____________________________________ Name of Pharmacy _____________________________________________________________
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.
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 Dean Pedalino (800) 642-1652 Mobile: (727) 460-1855
TEMPORARY PHARMACISTs – STAFFING
INSURANCE
Medical Staffing Network (800) 359-1234
Meadowbrook Workers Comp Insurance Endorsed by FPA (800) 825-9489
HealthCare Consultants Pharmacy Staffing Bob Miller (800) 642-1652
Rx Relief (800) RXRELIEF
LEGAL ASSISTANCE Kahan ◆ Shir, P.L. Brian A. Kahan, R.Ph., and Attorney at Law (561) 999-5999
PROFESSIONAL REFERRAL WANTED Registered Pharmacist for independent retail prescription store. 30 years at same location. Hours: Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; No nights or weekends. Location: St. Petersburg, FL. Ideal working conditions, friendly environment. All replies strictly confidential. Cell: 727-418-7431; Evening: 727-595-2567
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.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 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. DECEMBER 2010
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