IPA Journal Apr/May/Jun 2023

AI: FRIEND OR FOE?

INSIDE:

IPA Pharmacist Day on the Hill

PharmaCE Expo 2023

IPA Board of Trustees Election

8515 Douglas Avenue, Suite 16, Des Moines, IA 50322

Phone: 515.270.0713 Fax: 515.270.2979

Email: ipa@iarx.org | www.iarx.org

PUBLICATION STAFF

Allison Hale, Managing Editor

Kate Gainer, PharmD

Emmeline Paintsil, PharmD, MSLD, BCPS

Elizabeth Orput, PharmD

Kellie Staiert, MPA

Laura Miller

OFFICERS

CHAIRMAN

Christopher Clayton, PharmD, MBA – Manchester

PRESIDENT

Cheri Schmit, RPh – Ames

PRESIDENT-ELECT

John Hamiel, PharmD – Evansdale

TREASURER

CoraLynn Trewet, PharmD – Ankeny

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

Heather Ourth, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP – Ackworth

VICE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

Wes Pilkington, PharmD – Waterloo

TRUSTEES

REGION #1

Robert Nichols, PharmD, BCPS – Waterloo

REGION #2

Pamela Wiltfang, PharmD, MPH, BA, CHES – North Liberty REGION #3

John L'Estrange, PharmD, RPh, BCACP – Des Moines REGION #4

Grant Houselog, PharmD, CSPI – Sergeant Bluff AT LARGE

Micaela Maeyaert, PharmD, BCPS, DPLA – Spirit Lake

Morgan Herring, PharmD, BCPS, FAPhA – West Des Moines

Jackie Gravert, PharmD, MPH – Cedar Rapids

Angie Spannagel, PharmD, BCACP – Dubuque

HONORARY PRESIDENT

Betty Grinde, RPh – Story City

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

Tammy Sharp-Becker, CPhT, CSPT – Des Moines

STUDENT PHARMACISTS

Nirjan Bhattarai – Drake University

Sidney Vancil – University of Iowa

The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association is a peer reviewed publication. Authors are encouraged to submit manuscripts to be considered for publication in the Journal. For author guidelines, see www.iarx.org/journal.

“The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association” (ISSN 1525-7894) publishes 4 issues per year: January/February/March issue; April/ May/June issue; July/August/September issue; and October/November/December issue by the Iowa Pharmacy Association, 8515 Douglas Avenue, Suite 16, Des Moines, Iowa 50322. Periodicals postage paid at Des Moines, Iowa and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association, 8515 Douglas Ave., Suite 16, Des Moines, IA 50322. Published quarterly, The Journal is distributed to members as a regular membership service paid for through allocation of membership dues. Subscription rates are $100 per year, single copies are $30. Printed by Mittera; Graphic design done by the Iowa Pharmacy Association.

THE FUTURE IS YOU. THE FUTURE IS NOW.

regulation, but is this our future? Does PBM reform fix all of our problems and allow us to practice the way we envision the future of pharmacy? How DO we envision the future of pharmacy?

Cheri Schmit, RPh Senior Manager, Product & Solutions Marketing, Cardinal Health

One of the things I enjoy most about both my job and serving as IPA President is the opportunity to meet pharmacists in a variety of practice settings across Iowa and the U.S. I get to learn about their unique practice sites and the innovative things they are doing. I hear the challenges and struggles, what they’ve tried, and what resources and tools they need. Most importantly, I hear their ideas for the future of pharmacy, and I get to ponder, ‘How can I make a difference? How can my company make a difference? And how can IPA make a difference?’

IPA President

I have seen practice sites that are struggling and practice sites that are thriving. I wish there was space to tell you about all of the creative, innovative, and amazing services pharmacists are providing for their communities that often go above and beyond healthcare. I could tell you so many stories! And while the stories are personal, there are consistent themes that I hear from pharmacists in all practice settings.

Burnout and mental health issues are real. Adequate, trained staff is a luxury. Product shortages are growing, lasting longer, and creating extra stress and work. Everyone is concerned about product reimbursement; it’s bad and getting worse.

I have noticed that I meet with two kinds of pharmacists.

The first wants to talk about reimbursement and fix reimbursement issues. This is critical work, as there are plenty of problems and unfair practices with product reimbursement that need to be fixed. No industry should be routinely “compensated” for less than their cost of the product. Period. And we could talk for hours about the issues with vertical PBM integration controlling essentially every aspect of healthcare. It’s not fair, and it’s not a level playing field. Pharmacies will go out of business, patients will suffer, and problems in all practice settings will be compounded if we don’t have meaningful reform and protections. We must have PBM

The second type of pharmacist acknowledges all these issues; but they have also decided that if they want to survive, they must start transforming their practice and force new revenue streams. These pharmacists want to talk about how product is an important core of pharmacy, but it’s just the start. They have thought about what the future of pharmacy looks like in their practice and are doing their best to engineer this reality. They are not just preparing for the future, they are forcing their practices to transform and become the future.

Pharmacists should be fairly compensated for their knowledge and expertise, not just for the product they may dispense or administer. We all agree, but how do we make this happen? How do we force this transformation and change in OUR practice setting? What steps can we take as individuals?

As a good first step, I encourage you to get more involved with IPA and attend the Annual Meeting in June. At Annual Meeting, we vote on policy that guides every aspect of the work of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. This is one small way to have a voice and learn how you can make change and transform practice. Bring a friend, or, better yet, bring a student!

Those of you who know Emmeline Paintsil on IPA staff know that she loves vision boards. (I don’t think she will mind that I have shared this tidbit of info about her.) A vision board is a collection of images, words, and sayings that represent your goals and dreams. It is meant to serve as motivation and inspiration to help you prioritize tasks to manifest your goals and dreams. A vision board can you help imagine a positive future, as well as

“[These pharmacists] are not just preparing for the future, they are forcing their practices to transform and become the future.”

increase positive emotions and optimism. And as we know, a positive attitude often creates opportunities and results in success.

Maybe that’s what the second type of pharmacist has done. They have envisioned their future and prioritized tasks to stay motivated and to find new innovative ways to practice pharmacy. Sure, there are barriers and external factors outside an individual’s control, and sometimes it feels like your voice is not heard by people with power. But have you stopped to envision what the future of pharmacy looks like to you? Do you know what steps you could be taking now to move towards that future? Because we are the future of pharmacy, and it’s up to us to create it and manifest it, whether working individually, collectively, with providers, with stakeholders, or as an association. And yes, we need more than a vision. There are barriers, but we can’t stand by and wait for others to do it for us or give us THEIR version of OUR future.

What if we all envision “our” future of pharmacy, make a plan, and do what we can within our own practice settings to make change happen?

As I drafted this article, I realized that within my role, I have unknowingly been creating a vision board for the future of pharmacy by visiting and listening to pharmacists. Their stories motivate me to help them make their future a reality. So, I challenge all of you to honestly spend at least 15-20 minutes thinking about what the future of pharmacy looks like for you and your practice setting and what steps you can start taking today to make this a reality.

Let’s make a vision and take one step at a time to make it reality because we can’t wait any longer. The future is now. ■

The Iowa Monitoring Program for Pharmacy Professionals (IMP3) is excited to welcome two new committee members, Sarah Grady, PharmD, BCPS, BCPP, from Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Des Moines, IA, and John Vallandingham, RPh, BCGP, from Henry County Health Center, Mount Pleasant, IA.

IMP3 believes the skills and reputation of pharmacy professionals and student pharmacists can be maintained if monitoring and supportive services are put in place at an early stage. IMP3 can assist pharmacy professionals and student pharmacists in obtaining the necessary support for healthy recovery from substance use, mental health, and/or physical conditions.

Once an individual contacts IMP3 with a self-report, IMP3's program coordinator will gather information about the individual’s situation. This may result in referral for further evaluation and/or treatment, if indicated. The IMP3 committee meets quarterly to review current participants and self-reports to determine whether or not the pharmacy professional would benefit from ongoing support and monitoring. If so, an individualized contract is developed that includes safeguards designed to allow the individual to continue/return to practice. It’s IMP3’s hope that participants in the program are able to continue to practice pharmacy. Email Program Coordinator Becky Carlson at rebecca.carlson@iowa.gov for more information.

https://pharmacy.iowa.gov/iowa-monitoring-program-pharmacy-professionals-imp3

President Schmit discusses payment and practice advancement opportunities with Senator Chuck Grassley alongside fellow IPA members and staff at Medical Associates Pharmacy in Boone.

PHARMACIST DAY ON THE HILL

On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, IPA welcomed nearly 230 pharmacists, student pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for Pharmacist Day on the Hill in Des Moines. After breakfast and welcoming remarks from IPA President Cheri Schmit, RPh, programming began with a legislative briefing from IPA’s Advocacy Team, including IPA lobbyists Matt Eide and Kate Walton. The panel described the current make-up of the Iowa Legislature, IPA’s 2023 legislative priorities, as well as what to expect at the State Capitol.

Next, IPA welcomed 2023 keynote and State Medicaid Director, Elizabeth Matney, to the stage. Director Matney addressed the ongoing healthcare workforce shortage and the need for adequate reimbursement. After the Director’s keynote, IPA presented its 2023 Legislative Awards to Senator Mike Klimesh (District 32) for his support of the PBM reform bill in 2022, and Linda Grimm, RPh, for her efforts as a Champion Advocate during last year’s Legislative Session.

Following a legislative panel featuring Representative John Forbes, RPh (District 44), Representative Brian

Best (District 11), and Senator Mike Klimesh (District 32), attendees boarded buses and headed to the Iowa State Capitol. There, attendees discussed the need for an updated Pharmacy Practice Act, transparent Iowa Medicaid reimbursement, and enforcement of PBM regulation with their legislators. The day concluded with a reception and rave comments from Iowa legislators. Thank you to all who attended! ■

GOOD GOVERNANCE AWARD Senator Mike Klimesh, District 32

LEGISLATIVE CHAMPION Linda Grimm, RPh, Missouri Valley

2023 IPA BOARD ELECTION

The following individuals will be installed at the 2023 IPA Annual Meeting, June 15-16 in Des Moines. In addition, John Hamiel, IPA’s current President-Elect from Evansdale, will be installed as the association’s 145th President. Hamiel is the Regional Director of Pharmacy for MercyOne Northeast Iowa and was elected to the position last spring. IPA thanks all candidates for their willingness to run and serve the profession in this capacity.

Jim

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Hoehns, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP

As an educator and practitioner, I want to ensure we are doing our best to inform the next generation of potential pharmacists about the expanding practice opportunities within our profession. As young learners are choosing their paths forward, I want them to keep pharmacy on their short list.

TRUSTEE REGION 2

Natalie Hunter, PharmD

Being involved in a web of pharmacists, technicians, and others whose common goal is to continue to advance the pharmacy profession has been refreshing. There are certainly barriers to overcome with growth. I am interested in a leadership position with IPA to share, hear, and help with those barriers.

TRUSTEE REGION 4

Wendy Kinne, PharmD

“I am a community pharmacist and pharmacy owner of two independent pharmacies. I am passionate about patient education, student mentorship, wellness collaboration with local employers, sustainment of independent pharmacies in our local communities, and advocating for pharmacist provider status.

TRUSTEE AT-LARGE

Brett Faine, PharmD, MS

On the Board of Trustees, my goal will be to work with members of IPA and the legislature to continue to advocate for pharmacist provider status. I believe that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians should practice at the highest level and be adequately reimbursed for the services that are provided.

TRUSTEE AT-LARGE

Cory Garvin, PharmD

To change the pharmacy experience for patients, it is necessary to listen to all players, including pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, other providers, as well as other professions to shape our future. My intention as a Board member is to do this and advocate not only for our profession but also the patients we serve.

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

Connie Bentrott, CPhT

I have witnessed the challenges in the pharmacy industry, which escalated during the COVID pandemic, and have always challenged myself to identify solutions to improve the service we are able to provide. The field of pharmacy continues to evolve, and I am excited for the opportunity to represent pharmacy technicians from across the state.

For

IPA ANNUAL MEETING 2023

June 15-16 Des Moines, IA

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

6:00-8:00 PM House of Delegates: Session I (Virtual)

THURSDAY, JUNE 15

8:00-8:50 AM Registration, Continental Breakfast & Exhibit Hall

8:50-9:00 AM Welcome

9:00-10:00 AM

KEYNOTE – Pharmacy of the Future: Future is Now, Deloitte

10:00-12:00 PM House of Delegates: Session II

12:00-12:30 PM Exhibit Hall

12:30-1:45 PM Leadership Luncheon

1:45-2:45 PM CPESN-IA Meeting

1:45-3:00 PM Exhibit Hall

3:00-5:00 PM Resident Research Presentations

6:00-7:00 PM President’s Reception

7:00-9:30 PM IPA Annual Awards Banquet

9:30-10:30 PM IPA Foundation Silent Auction & Dessert Reception

FRIDAY, JUNE 16

6:30 AM 2023 STEP, CYCLE, SWING Kick-off

7:30 AM Registration

8:00-8:45 AM Breakfast, Poster Presentations & Committee Conversations

8:45-9:00 AM Break

9:00-11:00 AM Resident Research Presentations

11:00-11:30 AM Poster Presentations & Committee Conversations

11:30-12:30 PM Lunch & Open Networking

12:30-1:30 PM KEYNOTE – Active Leadership, Liz Nead

1:30-3:30 PM House of Delegates – Session III

3:30 PM Adjourn

1815 UPDATE

To recognize the work of pharmacists in ambulatory clinics, community, and hospital pharmacies, IPA is providing technical assistance and support to twenty-one pharmacies across the state on initiatives surrounding diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. The next fiveyear iteration of this grant program will be focused on heart disease and stroke. Additionally, there will be a focus on the pharmacists’ role on multi-disciplinary teams, development of policies and procedures for health information utilization to support patient care, and training and inclusion of community health workers in all practice settings. FY24 is expected to begin recruiting this fall. If you are interested in this project or wish to be notified of future opportunities to work with IPA and Iowa HHS on these initiatives, please contact IPA’s Director of Professional Affairs, Emmeline Paintsil, at epaintsil@iarx.org.

VACCINE EQUITY GRANT

At the end of last year, IPA was awarded an additional $75,000 in funding and a grant extension through December 31, 2023. IPA continues to work on all four activities under the grant including: Promote Vaccine Confidence; Develop Messaging; Engage Trusted Messengers; and Support Grassroots Style Outreach. While the public health emergency (PHE) ended on May 11, IPA plans to continue sharing resources and educating members on PHE unwind implications for patients and pharmacies. As part of the vaccine equity grant with Iowa HHS, IPA is seeking to develop a Health Coach Certification Program for pharmacy that incorporates cultural humility and motivational interviewing skills.

HEALTH DISPARITIES GRANT

IPA staff have been focused on providing tools and resources to support mental health and well-being as a part of the Iowa Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities. In April, Sandy Eimers, RPh, C-IAYT, ERYT500, TIYT™, led April’s 2/2/2 webinar on Trauma Conscious Care in Pharmacy Practice, which provided background on the science of stress and trauma as well as tools to help self-regulate and co-regulate with patients to help move out of fight-or-flight responses.

Additionally, IPA is partnering with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) to bring the NAMI Provider program to eight cities across the state as the main feature of IPA Goes Local 2023. The NAMI Provider seminar training utilizes an evidence-based curriculum and

storytelling from a teacher panel consisting of a mental health provider, a family member of someone living with a mental illness, and a person in recovery. With a severe shortage of mental health providers in the state of Iowa, this training is vital in helping educate health care professionals on the lived experiences of individuals living with mental illness navigating care and recovery. This seminar training assists pharmacists, technicians, nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals in providing more competent, compassionate, and person-centered care for patients living with mental illness as well as their families. We believe that all health care professionals should be educated, and this is a great opportunity for interdisciplinary learning and engagement. NAMI Provider for IPA Goes Local is ACPE-accredited, providing four hours of live CE for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. To learn more about this project or collaborate with IPA, contact Emmeline Paintsil at epaintsil@iarx.org.

HIV & HCV PHARMACY TESTING PROJECT

The HIV Testing Project, in collaboration with Iowa HHS Bureau of HIV, STI, and Hepatitis, marked its five-year anniversary with a virtual site visit. IPA staff presented highlights of the project’s progress from the past five years to HHS staff. IPA and HHS discussed the challenges and opportunities related to leveraging the expertise of the pharmacy profession to address the HIV and hepatitis epidemics in Iowa. IPA was awarded an additional five years of funding to continue this testing project. This long-standing relationship with public health has opened doors to additional grant funding, such as the HCV surveillance project. Iowa HHS Bureau of HIV, STD, and Hepatitis has been a strong advocate of pharmacy, and IPA looks forward to working with them in years to come!

HCV Surveillance Grant: IPA is analyzing data received from a recent survey of pharmacies inquiring about policies and procedures around syringe sales and naloxone distribution. Based on this data, the goal is to create technical assistance and capacity building programming for pharmacies across the state.

If you are interested in learning more about the partnership with HHS or about the HIV testing and HCV surveillance projects, please contact Kellie Staiert, IPA’s Lead Project Manager, at kstaiert@iarx.org.

Pharmacy professionals across the state and country came together February 3-5, 2023 for a jam-packed PharmaCE Expo weekend in Des Moines. On Friday, attendees took part in skills assessments for point-of-care testing and immunizations, as well as two tracks of clinical programming. Featured topics on Friday included managing opioid use disorder, creating effective SOPs, implementing test-to-treat services, as well as clinical guideline updates for the management of HIV, breast cancer, asthma and chronic disease.

On Saturday, PharmaCE Expo keynote Sarah Noll Wilson, MS, presented on Adaptive Leadership, teaching us how to lead others to not only survive change but thrive. Following the keynote, attendees split into two tracks, featuring sessions on creating a great work culture, meeting the needs of others through servant leadership, understanding research

IPA staff and leadership with keynote Sarah Noll Wilson

statistics, and much more. The day concluded with an evening networking reception.

On Sunday, PharmaCE Expo attendees gathered in the ballroom once more for annual favorites, including New Drug Update and Gamechangers in Pharmacy. Throughout the weekend, attendees donated over $200 and 100 food items through a Pharm to Tables fundraiser for the Food Bank of Iowa.

Thank you to all who attended this year’s PharmaCE Expo! ■

PHARMACISTS IN ATTENDANCE

131

TECHNICIANS IN ATTENDANCE

13

Everything graduates and newto-Iowa pharmacists need to prepare for the Iowa Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination, including:

ERE!

• Information on how to register for the exam

• Questions in a table format to fill in your answers

• Answers to each question with references to information in Iowa code and administrative code

• Terminology section of key terms to know

Original Price: $75

Discounted Price: $40

IPA members enjoy a substantial discount!

For INFORMED Pharmacists and Non-members

For Student Pharmacists, ENGAGED Pharmacists, CONNECTED Pharmacists, and Business Partners

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

“My name is Savannah Anderson, and I am a P3 student at the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy (UICOP) with plans to pursue a Pharmacy Administration and Leadership Residency following my completion of rotations this upcoming year. Much of what has inspired me to pursue this specific path stems from empowering conversations I’ve had with mentors and seeing the impact my peers and I have made on the UICOP via our various leadership roles. What initially drew me to pharmacy was the relationships I saw pharmacists build with patients and the vital role they play in healthcare teams. Although I do not have a specific dream position in mind for myself, I do hope to end up in a role where I can be a leader and mentor for others in the same way so many pharmacists have been for me.

As a student pharmacist, I have made it a top priority of mine to stay actively engaged in my school, local, professional and social communities. At the UICOP, I am the president of my class; I serve as a mentor to current and incoming students through our Pharmacy Student Ambassador Network; I serve on the Admission’s Committee; and I maintain active memberships in APhA and Rho Chi. In the past, I held leadership positions as Co-Chair of the Engagement Committee and Secretary of the Student Leadership Council, both of which served as stepping stones for building relationships with other student leaders in the college. I work at Hy-Vee Pharmacy and the University of Iowa College of Dentistry Pharmacy, where I get ample opportunities to interact with patients and apply the concepts I learn throughout the day in classes.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending my time discovering new music, attending sporting events, and playing volleyball on a team with some of my classmates. In addition to that, I often spend weekends filming weddings and managing my own photography business.

“My name is Stacia Humphrey, and I am a second-year student pharmacist at Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

I am from Chicago, Illinois, where I attended Lindblom Math and Science Academy. Growing up, I was raised around people who always gave back to their community and others. Serving others has been a big part of my life since I can remember. This being one of my core values pushed me to pursue a career in the pharmacy profession. I saw a need in communities with a lot of health disparities, as they were lacking representation.

Being a Black woman, I want to provide a personalized, safe space for all people to ensure pharmacy stays a trusted profession. This aspect of my professional identity will serve in many spaces of health disparities, such as those that do not have a supportive community or safe space. Currently, I am interested in psychiatric and ambulatory care pharmacy.

Outside of the classroom, I work at Medicap Pharmacy and Broadlawns Medical Center as a Pharmacy Intern. I previously worked in the Community Engaged Learning office at Drake University as the Food Security Community Engaged Peer. In addition to IPA’s Student Pharmacist Advisory Committee, I am also involved in Lambda Kappa Sigma Pharmacy Fraternity, and I am the President of the Eta Tau chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

Last spring, I participated in the IPA Bill Burke P1 Student Pharmacist Leadership Workshop. The skills I learned and connections I made at the workshop motivated me to get further involved with IPA.

AI: FRIEND OR FOE?

Dalton Fabian, PharmD, RPh, Data Scientist, UnityPoint Health

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has been a hot topic for many years. Companies using computer vision for radiology services and machine learning to predict patient adverse health outcomes is becoming more commonplace. However, the conversation around AI has hit a fever pitch recently with the introduction of the newest AI entrant, ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a powerful tool that can write code, summarize long text, and help answer questions without requiring the user to dig through a bunch of links. Needless to say, there is a lot of promise that we're seeing from AI currently. What then is the main question that pharmacy professionals should be asking themselves about AI? I’d argue that it’s, ‘Is AI going to be my friend or a foe?’ Let's dig in a bit.

AI: OUR FRIEND

AI will be a friend to pharmacy professionals in many ways. AI like ChatGPT can understand medical concepts to an extent. To see this in action, just ask the most recent update of ChatGPT (that uses GPT-4), ‘What is the first line therapy for diabetes?’ It will describe the nuance between type 1 and type 2 diabetes while also discussing basal and

bolus insulin treatment for type 1 diabetes and lifestyle modification as first line therapy for type 2 diabetes. It also mentions metformin as a common first medication after lifestyle modification. When you review the response, it’s clear that ChatGPT has a decent grasp on medical concepts.

With this understanding of healthcare (and more future healthcare-specific training), AI can help us to be more efficient professionals. A future example could include typing a drug information question into a healthcare-focused chat interface and getting an answer back instead of manually searching through a book or web resource where you endlessly scroll. Additionally, research summarization is a feature that is already available in ChatGPT derivatives that can summarize research papers for you. These programs allow you to “talk” to the research papers to better understand the findings. Uses like these will help us get clinical and medication questions answered quicker and spend more time doing what we love: patient care.

AI can also assist clinicians by helping to find patients who require the most attention for better prioritization and more specific interventions. AI can help clinicians identify which patients are most likely to

have an adverse health outcome, and these patients can be surfaced automatically. In my work as a Data Scientist and incorporating machine learning, I've built dashboards that highlight patients most likely to readmit within 30 days or those most likely to have emergency room or inpatient stays in the future to help nurses and pharmacists prioritize follow-ups or enroll patients in care management. This will help clinicians save time prioritizing patients and allow more focus on interventions.

AI: A POTENTIAL FOE

However great AI can theoretically be, it also has the potential for unforeseen consequences. Our pharmacy profession must be clear about any possible negative impacts of AI and identify solutions to these problems ahead of time. For example, AI can worsen inequalities in healthcare. AI is only as good as the data and patterns from the past that it’s trained on. If these models are trained on homogenous populations and then used for patient care in diverse settings, the system can perpetuate current inequalities. One solution can be to ask vendors about the breakdown of the patient population the AI used when it was built and consider if that population matches the patients that you care for.

AI: A GAME CHANGING OPPORTUNITY

The current moment in healthcare is shaping up to be one of the most impactful in modern history, thanks to AI. We have the opportunity to make our work as pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, pharmacy students, or other support personnel exponentially more impactful to the patients we serve. By being aware of the evolving AI landscape, we can make sure that we are using it in ways that improve outcomes while minimizing any negative impacts. ■

Dr. Fabian presented IPA’s September 2022 2/2/2 webinar on this topic. Scan the QR code to watch!

2023 IPA EXECUTIVE INTERNS

The IPA Max W. Eggleston Summer Executive Internship Program is a twelve-week program held each year at IPA Headquarters in Des Moines. The Executive Internship was developed in 1978 to provide student pharmacists with experience in professional association management. In 2023, the Executive Internship program was renamed and expanded to accept two student pharmacist interns, one from each of Iowa’s colleges of pharmacy. Please help us welcome our 2023 Executive Interns!

My name is Stephen Presti, and I am excited to serve as a 2023 Max W. Eggleston Executive Intern in Association Management for the Iowa Pharmacy Association.

I grew up in Janesville, Wisconsin and have been living in Iowa for eight years. I graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids with Bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry, Neuroscience, and Spanish. I am currently finishing up my second year at the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. I serve as a student member of the college’s curriculum committee and as the Policy Vice President in our APhA-ASP chapter. Outside of school, I work as a pharmacy intern at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Specialty Pharmacy, where I complete benefits investigations and contact patients to monitor medication adherence and screen for side effects.

My experiences with the APhA-ASP policy process and IPA’s Pharmacist Day on the Hill have developed my interest in political advocacy for the profession of pharmacy. I hope to share the knowledge and skills I will develop during this internship with my peers to work together to push the profession of pharmacy forward and positively impact the health of our communities.

“ “My name is Kaitlyn Thomas, and I will serve as a 2023 Max W. Eggleston Executive Intern in Association Management for IPA this summer!

I am from the Houston, Texas area, but I am currently residing in Phoenix, Arizona. I am a second-year PharmD student at Drake University with a concentration in Global and Comparative Public Health. I currently intern at the Iowa Capitol building with Representative John Forbes, where I attend meetings to discuss potential bills, review legislative and regulatory documents, and research policy areas in support of the goals of the Democratic Party. Additionally, I serve as the President-elect of the Nu chapter of Lambda Kappa Sigma Pharmacy Fraternity, and I am the Fundraising Chair of the Rho Phi chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.

My goal is to serve as a pharmacist, dedicated to improving the quality of life of marginalized individuals by having my skills and degree translate into a career that affords me the opportunity to work for industry and policy changes in healthcare and prescription drugs. In an attempt to support a humanitarian effort and to pursue my sole purpose in life, I remain committed to providing service in the healthcare profession. Moreover, with social collaboration among pharmacy professors and students alike, I concluded that my love for the profession is as immutable as the overall need. I hope to use the skills gained through this internship to continue advocating for marginalized communities and the pharmacy profession overall.

LEARN MORE about the Max W. Eggleston Summer Executive Internship Program: www.iarx.org/ExecIntern

BOARD OF PHARMACY: REGULATORY UPDATE

COMPREHENSIVE RULE REVIEW

Now that the 2023 Iowa Legislative Session has concluded, attention shifts from the gold dome to the various state offices that house regulatory bodies tasked with implementing approved legislation. Unlike past years, these bodies—including the Board of Pharmacy—have the additional task of reviewing current Iowa Administrative Code chapters as part of Governor Kim Reynolds’ intent to overhaul state government in Iowa through Executive Order 10.

Executive Order 10, signed by Governor Reynolds on Tuesday, January 10, requires each administrative agency in the state to analyze their respective rule sections for unnecessary, redundant, or restrictive language. “Iowa's Administrative Code contains over 20,000 pages and 190,000 restrictive terms, putting undue burden on Iowans and the state's economy, increasing costs for employers, slowing job growth, and impacting private sector investments,” stated Governor Reynolds.

The Board of Pharmacy must complete a comprehensive evaluation and cost benefit analysis of existing rules to evaluate public benefits, whether these benefits justify the cost, and whether there are less restrictive alternatives. The Board has requested IPA’s assistance in reviewing proposed drafts. IPA appreciates the opportunity to provide feedback on pharmacy regulation during this pivotal shift in regulation.

The Board must complete their rewrite for review by the legislature’s Administrative Rules Review Committee by December 31, 2024. A tentative timeline can be found on the Board’s website (pharmacy.iowa. gov/rules-laws/executive-order-10-rule-making-information).

During this time, the Board may only adopt new rules in limited circumstances, such as to reduce regulatory burden, remove duplicative statutory language, comply with a new statutory requirement, or prevent a well-documented threat to public health. Members should expect decreased rulemaking during this period.

If you have any questions or comments in the meantime, please contact Seth Brown at sbrown@iarx.org or Brett Barker at bbarker@iarx.org.

Y o u N e e d a

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QA Continuing Education and training opportunities

Patient Safety Organizations (PSOs) provide a safe space for members to conduct patient safety work. When you partner with our PSO for your Quality Improvement activities, the collection of quality assurance data and patient safety work is in a protected environment.

We are passionate about medication safety in community pharmacy and are here to walk you through the entire process. Our customer service team has years of experience in pharmacy and is excited to help.

2023 LEGISLATIVE RECAP

On Thursday, May 4, Iowa legislators gaveled out for the 2023 Iowa Legislative Session. The session was busy and exceedingly unique, as Republicans held a strong majority in the House of Representatives and a supermajority in the Senate.

IPA’s Advocacy Team monitored more than 78 individual bills this session on a wide range of topics that impact IPA members and healthcare. When needed, IPA’s grassroots network showed up in force, and on short notice, to advocate for the Pharmacy Practice Act bill and other measures impacting the profession. Legislators noted pharmacy’s passion and willingness to provide impactful insight. Thank you to our grassroots!

IPA’S 2023 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

• IPA’s Pharmacy Practice Act bill (HF 555) stayed in contention until the very end of the session, passing the House of Representatives with bipartisan support (86-10) and making it through the Senate Health and Human Services (HHS) Committee unanimously. The substance of the bill remains almost fully intact and will resume in the Senate HHS Committee in 2024. The last Pharmacy Practice Act reform bill took four years to pass, so we are wellpositioned for next year!

• A 340B nondiscrimination bill (HF 423) providing for state-level protections passed both chambers and was signed into law by the Governor. The bill prohibits health plans and PBMs from discriminating against a covered entity or contract pharmacy for participation in a 340B program including contracting, patient provider choice, imposing restrictions, or reduced payment. The bill also prohibits the imposition of certain contract requirements on such covered

entities, contract pharmacies and pharmacies that participate in the 340B drug program.

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE WINS

• Bills that would limit a pharmacist’s professional autonomy by imposing penalties for dispensing certain FDA-approved medications, such as abortion-inducing drugs, did not advance.

• Governor Kim Reynold’s legislative priorities included provisions expanding access to opioid antagonists. The bill allows pharmacists to dispense opioid antagonists to secondary distributors, such as law enforcement, EMS, health care providers, schools, and county health departments. It also amends SWPs to allow a pharmacist to administer opioid antagonists, instead of only naloxone.

NEXT STEPS FOR IPA

• Explore avenues for funding the Medicaid cost of dispensing increase with stakeholders, legislators, and the executive branch.

• Educate legislators and advocate for the Pharmacy Practice Act in the offseason.

• Expand resources for members to submit PBM complaints and data to the Iowa Insurance Division (IID). Continue working with IID and legislators to determine the best strategy for additional PBM regulation and enforcement.

Impacting Advocacy Through the IPPAC & Legislative Defense Fund

play in enhancing the health care of Iowans, and this interaction remains an important way to allow for positive changes in pharmacy practice.

An important way that the IPA can impact legislative issues is by using their political action funds carefully and wisely to provide support to legislators and candidates who are supportive of pharmacy’s role in delivering patient care. The Legislative Defense Fund and Political Action Committee play an important role in enhancing the legislative mission of the profession of pharmacy in Iowa. While both funds are necessary in promoting pharmacy to legislators, there are some major differences between them.

IPA encourages every pharmacist, or pharmacy, to make a contribution to one of these funds, at any level, to assure that our voice is heard!

The Iowa Pharmacy Political Action Committee (IPPAC) is a fund used to strategically strengthen relationships with legislators that are supportive of pharmacy interests. The IPPAC is funded by contributions from individual pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, or student pharmacists, as well as member PACs of other organizations. Your contributions to the IPPAC aid in advocating for practice advancement, PBM regulation and other important issues facing our profession.

IPA’s Legislative Defense Fund (LDF) consists of donations from corporate sponsors. Since corporations are prohibited from contributing to candidates (and therefore, the IPPAC), these funds are used to pay for advocacy activities, which include IPA’s Legislative Day and Capitol Screenings, contracted lobbyists and external consultants, and IPPAC administration and fundraising costs.

Patient safety. Professional practice. Community impact.

Build your team with confidence.

Build your team with confidence.

Employers who rely on PTCB consistently report improved employee performance, greater efficiency, lower turnover, and reduced time and expense to train and advance pharmacy technicians.

Employers who rely on PTCB consistently report improved employee performance, greater efficiency, lower turnover, and reduced time and expense to train and advance pharmacy technicians.

Assessment-Based Certificates

Assessment-Based Certificates

BILLING AND REIMBURSEMENT

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES DIVERSION PREVENTION

BILLING AND REIMBURSEMENT

Certifications

Certifications

Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)

HAZARDOUS DRUG MANAGEMENT

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES DIVERSION PREVENTION

HAZARDOUS DRUG MANAGEMENT

IMMUNIZATION ADMINISTRATION

Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)

MEDICATION HISTORY

IMMUNIZATION ADMINISTRATION

MEDICATION HISTORY

MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT

POINT-OF-CARE TESTING

Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician® (CSPT®) Certification

MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT

POINT-OF-CARE TESTING

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE*

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE*

SUPPLY CHAIN AND INVENTORY MANAGEMENT*

Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician® (CSPT®) Certification

TECHNICIAN PRODUCT VERIFICATION (TPV)

SUPPLY CHAIN AND INVENTORY MANAGEMENT*

*Planned for 2022

TECHNICIAN PRODUCT VERIFICATION (TPV)

*Planned for 2022

Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv) Certification

Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT-Adv) Certification

DOS AND DON’TS OF INSECT REPELLENTS

April 2023 Tech Tidbit Newsletter

Summer is right around the corner, and as the weather gets nicer, people will be opting to spend more time outdoors. However, with the warm weather comes pesky insects that can bite. Although most bug bites are harmless, some can spread dangerous diseases like Zika virus, dengue, Lyme disease and malaria. The United States has recently seen an uptick in these vector-borne diseases, with illnesses from tick, mosquito and flea bites almost tripling since 2004.¹

PREVENTION

Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants while outside. Those that must spend a lot of time outdoors for work or recreation should consider permethrin-treated clothing and gear (e.g., boots, pants, socks, tents). Consider using a mosquito net to cover strollers and baby carriers or a tent if sleeping outdoors.²

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents are important for bite prevention. EPA-registered repellents are safe and effective against mosquitoes and ticks, even for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.² Remind patients that if they are also using sunscreen, they should apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second because sunscreen may lower the repellent's ability to deter insects.³

DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a common active ingredient in insect repellent that makes it harder for biting bugs to smell humans. DEET is available in a variety of formulations, including liquids, lotions, sprays, and other impregnated materials such as roll-on products or towelettes. DEET also comes in a wide range of concentrations, from 5% to 99%. Look for a product that contains 20-30% for the best results.²,³ Other active ingredients of insect repellents include IT3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), picaridin, and 2-undecanone. Products containing OLE or PMD are not safe for children younger than 3 years old.

DOS AND DON’TS OF INSECT REPELLENTS

DO:

• Read and follow label instructions.

• Avoid over-application; use just enough to cover exposed skin and/ or clothing.

• Wash treated skin with soap and water upon returning indoors.

• Wash treated clothing before wearing it again.

• Spray on hands, then rub onto face avoiding eyes, nose and mouth.

DON’T:

• Apply over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.

• Let children apply the product themselves.

• Apply to children’s hands or near their eyes or mouth.

• Use under clothing.

• Spray in an enclosed area.

• Spray directly onto the face.

TREATMENT

For mild reactions:

• Wash the bite with warm water and soap.

• To reduce swelling, apply a cool compress or ice to help decrease symptoms.

• For bites that itch, try over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or Afterbite, which contain baking soda to soothe the skin. Another option is to take an OTC antihistamine, such as Benadryl, Claritin, Zyrtec or Allegra.

• For painful bites, take an OTC painkiller such as Tylenol or ibuprofen. Always follow the directions on the label and use the correct dose.

Educate patients on the signs of a serious reaction and instruct them to seek medical attention if any of the following signs/symptoms occur following a bug bite:⁴

• Trouble breathing

• Swelling of the face, lips, eyelids or throat

• Dizziness or fainting

• Hives

• Weak and rapid pulse

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

References:

1. Illnesses from mosquito, tick, and flea bites increasing in the US. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 1, 2018. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2018/ p0501-vs-vector-borne.html

2. Avoid Bug Bites. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention- Travelers Health. Updated December 4, 2019. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/ prevent-mosquito-bites.html

3. DEET. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed March 17, 2023. https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/deet

4. Insect bites and stings: First Aid. Mayo Clinic. Accessed March 21, 2023. https://www. mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-insect-bites

5. Manning JE, Cantaert T. Time to micromanage the pathogen-host-vector interface: considerations for vaccine development. Vaccines (Basel). 2019;7(1):10. doi:10.3390/ vaccines7010010

TECHNICIAN SPOTLIGHT: TRACY KLEINSCHRODT, CPHT

Tracy Kleinschrodt’s entry into pharmacy began in the early 1990s while working as a clerk at Hy-Vee. In 1992, a pharmacy technician job opened at the Medicap Pharmacy in Pleasant Hill. Tracy secured this position and worked there until 1995, when she moved to Newton. Luckily, the pharmacy in Newton was also in need of a technician, and Tracy dutifully filled this role for twenty-five years. During her time with Medicap, Tracy greatly enjoyed the relationships she was able to build and maintain with her patients.

In the fall of 2021, Tracy accepted a position at GRX Holdings in West Des Moines as their DME (Durable Medical Equipment) Billing Specialist. GRX Holdings is the owner of twenty-four Central Iowa pharmacies, including Medicap, Oakland Pharmacy, and Midwest Compounding.

Within this role, Tracy’s main priority is to assist the twenty-four stores with successful billing of DME. When a GRX pharmacy receives a prescription for DME, they forward the information to Tracy, along with an inquiry, diagnosis, doctors notes, and insurance information. Tracy verifies this information and ensures that the pharmacy will be paid before the store actually bills it, ultimately saving time and money.

When asked what she enjoys most about her current role as a DME Billing Specialist, she says she appreciates being able to help both the store and the patient. Instead of a pharmacist taking the time to verify reimbursement for DME, Tracy’s work helps free up the pharmacist at the store level. This allows the pharmacist to perform more clinical services and process a higher quantity of prescriptions—something that is crucial for the survival of community pharmacy today.

Tracy shares the most challenging part about being a DME Billing Specialist is “getting the insurance on board with what is best for the patient.” The patient may be best suited for one type of equipment, but the insurance only pays for another type. She often has to be

an advocate for her patients to ensure they are getting the best treatment for their needs, while ensuring the dispensing pharmacy gets paid.

Early on in her pharmacy career, Tracy got involved with the Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA) to be an advocate for her profession. In 2003, she was honored with the IPA Pharmacy Technician of the Year Award, recognizing an Iowa technician who has demonstrated outstanding involvement in the association and the profession. Currently, she serves on the IPA Technician Advisory Committee, where she is focused on getting technicians more involved in all aspects of their career.

When not working, Tracy stays actively engaged in her community. She is currently serving her sixth elected year on the Jasper County Agricultural Board. Additionally, Tracy is a member of her church board, Kellogg’s RAGBRAI Committee, and stays involved with the East Jasper County Food Pantry. Tracy’s hobbies consist of crafting, DIY projects, and following her kids as they go through college. Tracy and her husband have two kids, a son and a daughter.

As Tracy reflects on what IPA can do to better support its technician members, she says she would like to see more outreach and encouragement for technicians to get involved. Tracy appreciates the scholarships offered by IPA for obtaining advanced technician credentials and would like to see those continue. Additionally, as a member of the IPA Technician Advisory Committee, she plans to work with IPA to bring back Pharmacy Technician Day and potentially restart Saturday Technician CE Day in Des Moines. Tracy believes that if technicians are able to see their position as “more than just a job,” they will have improved performance and show greater priority toward the main goal of caring for the patient.

Thank you, Tracy, for your commitment to your patients, community, and Iowa Pharmacy! ■

DME Billing Specialist, GRX Holdings

Tracy Kleinschrodt, CPhT

“If technicians are able to see their position as ‘more than just a job,’ they will have improved performance and show greater priority toward… caring for the patient.”

NEWLY CERTIFIED IOWA PHARMACY TECHNICIANS

JANUARY 1-MARCH 31, 2023 Congratulations to the following technicians!

James Abernathey

Volta Adovor

Kaylee Alvarez

Mekarim Amro

Kathleen Andreas

Olivia Auderer

Ashley Baker

Tracy Bates

Kaitlin Bosler

Julie Brazil

Jaimie Brouwer

Gabrielle Brunner

Camryn Bulian

Skye Burnell

Carrie Chaplin

Nicholas Christensen

Eryka Dickey

Ethaniel Dies

Catherine Dill

Tracy Dong

Wanti Du

Ashly Espinoza

Kortney Etten

Shawn Evarts

KayCee Ewing Cline

Erika Farrell

Stefanie Gardner

Tristesse Garvis

Hunter Glenn

Erin Halvorson

Tracy Hanson

Alicia Hanson

Charity Harper

Taylor Hayden

Steven Hochstetler

Danielle Holzmueller

Jennifer Hoodjer

Baily Hougham

Blake Huebl

Madison Hughbanks

Samantha Hunt

Sarah Imhoff

Jean Marie Jensen

Megan Jones

Isaac Kim

Alexa Kingbird

Kallie Kolthoff

Michelle Krum

Evie Larson

Anna Lauer

Daniel Jongheon Lee

Ronald Lidgett

Erika Lundy

Eileen Marshall

Kendall Mayne

Monica McCart

Skyler Meyer

Ashleigh Million

Rebecca Moffatt

Mishkat Mohamed

Kendal Mohr

Denise Moore

Emily Nguyen

Jessica Norgart

Caitlyn Nuehring

Abigail Pape

McKayla Pint

Emily Quick

Vanessa Ramirez Jimenez

Rebeka Romano-O’Neill

Julie Rosenkilde

Heather Searles

Madison Sharp

Kristina Simpson

Geoffrey Smith

Angela Speers

Gabriel Stanforth

Heather Stone

Dezirea Stratton

Maleah Toomey

Hadlie Van Bemmel

Miranda Verry

Diego Villafana Guzman

Sherlock Ward

Mary Watson

Emma Wells

Phyllis Wheeler

Beth Wold

Support the IPA Foundation by donating to the Silent Auction!

If you would like to donate to the IPA Foundation Silent Auction, please email Laura Miller at lmiller@iarx.org with a short description and approximate value of the item(s) you plan to donate.

June

2022 OUTCOMES INNOVATIVE PHARMACY GRANT PROGRAM

The IPA Foundation Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Endowment was established by the original investors of Outcomes Incorporated to support innovative pharmacy initiatives in the state of Iowa. The Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Program provides financial support for research, education, and promotion of innovative pharmacy practice initiatives in the state.

New in 2022, there are now two funding pathways available for Iowa pharmacists—the original Outcomes Grant and the Outcomes Grant Entrepreneur Track. The Entrepreneur Track allows for year-round applications and greater funding opportunities.

Congratulations to the 2022 IPA Foundation Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Program recipients below!

PROJECT

Evaluation of a Community Pharmacist-Led Transition of Care Service Including Social Determinants of Health for Emergency Department Patients of a Critical Access Hospital

SUBMITTED BY AWARDED

Satisfaction with the Implementation of a Mobile Pharmacist in a MedicationAssisted

2023 FUNDING CYCLE

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Friday, September 1. Applicants must then present their proposals at the November IPA Foundation Board of Directors Meeting. Awarded applicants must present a poster at the 2024 IPA Annual Meeting June 20-21 in Coralville. Learn more: www.iarx.org/outcomesgrant

IPAF Eggleston-Granberg Scholarships

Ali Goldensoph, Drake University

James Nichols, Drake University

Emily Weyenberg, University of Iowa

Keaton Higgins, University of Iowa

Christopher Decker Pharmacy Scholarship

Keaton Higgins, University of Iowa

IPAF Mike & Terry Pursel Scholarship

Paula Ornelas, Drake University

IPAF Russell E. Johnson Jr. & Lucille Johnson Scholarship

Kaitlyn Thomas, Drake University

IPAF General Scholarships

Anna Holden, Drake University

Jana Kay Lacanlale, Drake University

Isaac Ramos, Drake University

Caesar Yeaman, Drake University

Jack Dykema, University of Iowa

Zach Nunemaker, University of Iowa

2022-2023 IPA COMMITTEES

THE POLICY COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Nic Lehman – Chair

Namaro Kone – Vice Chair

Laura Knockel – Past Chair

Samm Anderegg

Kelly Andersen

George Appleseth

Jenna Beninga

Allison Bich

Ginelle Bryant

Josh Davis

Levi Gates

Kyle Hillsebeck

Anna Holden

Matt Hubble

Ben Jagow

Olivia Lehman

Wendy Mobley-Bukstein

Kalyca Nardy

Zach Nunemaker

Lainie Thomas

Jarek Vetter

Kate Waack

Andrew Wagner

Mylo Wells

THE POLICY COMMITTEE ON PROFESSIONAL AFFAIRS

Brian Benson – Chair

Nora Stelter – Vice Chair

Emma Kraayenbrink – Past Chair

Jen Alexandere

Alice Callahan

Sara El-Hattab

Sarah Greiner

Jill Guetersloh

Spencer Heggen

Cole Ludolph

Alicia Lynn

Aaron McDonough

Alex Mersch

Isaac Ramos

Shelby Reid

Andrew Stessman

Casey Villhauer

Meredith Wyland

Ceasar Yeaman

LEGISLATIVE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Mike Andreski

Brent Bovy

Mike Brownlee

Bill Drilling

Luke Ferguson

Steve Firman

Caitlyn Forrester

Ben Fox

Michelle Garvin

Joe Greenwood

Charlie Hartig

Charlie Iles

Candace Jordan

Anders Landis

Ed Maier

Anne Nelson

Nate Peterson

Diane Reist

Sydney Ross

Michael Schweitzer

Reed Timmer

Andrew Wagner

Braden Weiser

HEALTH-SYSTEM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Jared Butler

Ashley Cook

Jackie Gravert

Naomi Graves

Mark Notz

Hailey Steuber

Jennifer Williams

COMMUNITY PHARMACY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Brandon Gerleman

Jessica Johnson

Kelly Kent

Nick Lund

Kayla Manning

Wes Pilkington

Chelsea Schott

SENIOR CARE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Mark Branum

Grant Houselog

Namaro Kone

Kristin Meyer

Jeff Reist

Leeta Votsmier

AMBULATORY CARE PHARMACY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Bill Baer

John L'Estrange

Ashley Loeffelholz

Deanna McDanel

Chayla Morris

Jamie Pitlick

EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Eliza Dy-Boarman

Morgan Herring

Rick Knudson

Kimerly Metcalf

Matt Pitlick

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Macey Calderwood

Tina Dotzler

Meredith Drummond

Lori Foster

Lisa Gross

Jake Klein

Tracy Kleinschrodt

Tammy Sharp-Becker

STUDENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Savannah Anderson

Nirjan Bhattarai

Stacia Humphrey

Paula Ornelas

Sidney Vancil

Emily Weyenberg

PHARMACIST SPOTLIGHT: SARAH SORENSEN, PHARMD

For over fifty years, Drilling Pharmacy has been a staple of Sioux City, IA, providing healthcare services to the community and treating each patient as family; because at Drilling, family is integral to the pharmacy business. After graduating from the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy in 2018, Sarah Sorensen rejoined her father and uncle in Sioux City, making her the third generation to work for the family pharmacy.

Besides being a third-generation pharmacist, Sarah’s career is unique because of the variety of services Drilling pharmacy provides. A few examples of these services include: a strong medication synch program with 1,300 patients enrolled; a free delivery service that routinely delivers over 150 prescriptions a day; and utilizing ScripTalk, an assistive technology for the visually impaired.

Recently, Drilling has implemented the Cardiovascular Practice Transformation Program (CPT), in collaboration with CPESN, which is a longitudinal service that focuses on blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes management. Sarah works closely with patients to educate them on how to properly take their blood pressure, their blood pressure medications, and lifestyle interventions. She then follows up with the patient and collaborates with their primary provider to ensure the best course of therapy. The patient interaction is what Sarah finds the

most rewarding, particularly helping confused patients understand their medication regimen.

When asked about the proudest moment of her career thus far, Sarah states it was being part of a pharmacy team that stepped up when the community was in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drilling Pharmacy was able to administer over 10,000 COVID-19 vaccines and break down access barriers by immunizing patients in their homes.

Outside of pharmacy, Sarah enjoys attending Hawkeye sporting events, reading, traveling, and playing sand volleyball. As of late, Sarah and her husband, Eric, are staying busy in their new role as parents. The couple welcomed their daughter, Mia, in June of last year. Sarah makes time to be active in the community she calls home, serving as a Sunday school teacher and administering long-acting injectables for free.

As for the future of pharmacy in Iowa, Sarah envisions more legislation and statewide test-totreat protocols to provide patients greater access to healthcare and more hands-on clinical opportunities, as well as the expansion of the role for technicians. Undoubtedly, the future of Drilling Pharmacy is in good hands with Sarah as she builds upon tradition and continues the family legacy. ■

Staff Pharmacist, Drilling Pharmacy

Sarah Sorensen, PharmD

Drilling Pharmacy Staff

Congratulations to Connie Connolly, BS Pharm, BCACP, who was appointed by Governor Reynolds to the Iowa Board of Pharmacy!

www.iarx.org/join_renew

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

JANUARY 1-MARCH 31, 2023

CONNECTED

Michelle Brandom

ENGAGED

Andrea Beuthien

Jeremy Faulks

Theresa Kramer

Amanda Mull

Mark Notz

Hannah Thomas

TECHNICIANS

Christine Hare

Lisa Healey

Kennedy Soper

BUSINESS PARTNERS

Ankeny Community Pharmacy

Towncrest Compounding LLC

Towncrest LTC

Cornerstone Apothecary (Marengo)

Cornerstone Apothecary (Belle Plaine)

Congratulations to Lisa Mascardo, PharmD, FASHP, who was recognized through the University of Iowa’s February 2023 Longevity Awards for 25 years of continuous service!

IN MEMORIAM

Congratulations to Jamie Pitlick, PharmD, who was approved for a promotion by Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences!

Congratulations to Laura Knockel, PharmD, BCACP, who won an APhA Merit Award for her poster at the 2023 APhA Annual Meeting and Exposition!

Congratulations to Jessica Nesheim, PharmD, BCPS, who was awarded the Young Alumni Achievement Award from Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences!

Congratulations to Bryce Jackman, RPh, BCNSP, who was recognized as a Fellow of the National Home Infusion Association (NHIA)!

Longtime IPA member and Iowa pharmacist Richard "Dick" Bloemke passed away on February 28, 2023. Dick served patients across the state at Denison Drug Store in Denison, Aageson Drug in Dows, and Kessler Pharmacy in Belmond. After sixteen years, Dick purchased Kessler Pharmacy and renamed it Bloemke Pharmacy, leaving a lasting legacy on his community and the pharmacy profession.

UPCOMING IPA EVENTS

Find additional details to these events and more at www.iarx.org. Click on “Calendar of Events” under the Events tab.

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JANUARY:

Issues & Events That Have Shaped Iowa Pharmacy (Or Are Fun to Remember!) 03

The Iowa Department of Human Services implemented the “State Maximum Allowable Cost” (SMAC) list for multi-source prescription medications. The Department of Human Services worked closely with IPA to establish guidelines for the program to ensure products met basic criteria for therapeutic equivalence, consistent utilization, and were readily available at the determined pricing factor established by the department.

IPA’s 2003 Educational Expo was held January 17-19th at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines. Keynote presentations focused on the Lighten Up Iowa effort and pharmacists’ role in medication safety. More than 500 pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists attended.

FEBRUARY:

IPA’s annual Legislative Day was held February 18th. Over 140 Iowa pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists attended the event. Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack (1999-2007) provided the keynote address.

MARCH:

The University of Iowa released results from a major three-year study that examined a new patient care payment system, wherein pharmacists and physicians were compensated for the additional care associated with drug therapy management services. The study found that the PCM program served to significantly improve medication safety, as well as improving patient outcomes without increased costs to Medicaid.

MAY:

A University of Iowa study published in The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy suggested that pharmacists can be an effective resource for smoking-cessation intervention.

SEPTEMBER:

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) issued guidelines on the pharmacist’s role in immunizations. This guidance document helped pharmacists take an active role in improving national immunization rates and advancing the pharmacy profession.

OCTOBER:

The IPA House of Delegates adopted a policy calling for products containing pseudoephedrine to be removed from general public access to address the growing methamphetamine concern.

The Iowa Pharmacy Association Foundation is committed to the preservation of the rich heritage of pharmacy practice in Iowa. By honoring and remembering the past, we are reminded of the strong tradition we have to build upon for a prosperous future for the profession.

Former Gov. Tom Vilsack