IPA Journal Jul/Aug/Sept 2020 by Iowa Pharmacy Association

A Peer-Reviewed Journal | Vol. LXXV, No. 3 | JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020

INSIDE:

History of Pharmacy COVID-19 During Global Pandemic Crisis IPA Annual MeetingIPA Annual Meeting Congratulations Class Midwest of 2020 Pharmcy Expo Recap

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president’s page

PS: Professional Solidarity Connie Connolly, RPh, BCACP

With my presidency extended by three months during this unique period, I am privileged to present a bonus editorial, so here is my “PS.” An event occurred of late that was noteworthy for our profession, even amidst the remarkable time in which we are living. It was an unprecedented statement of solidarity by fourteen national pharmacy organizations. I was heartened to see that we have finally found a topic that we can issue a joint statement on, and I am hopeful that it will allow us to find more common ground on which we can work together. The issue is of utmost importance – Advocating against racism. What can we do to eliminate discrimination and injustice to improve our patients’ care? Many of us are paralyzed when we witness overt racism, wondering what it is we can do…or we are blind to the more subtle forms of racism and, therefore, do not feel comfortable or motivated to insert ourselves to affect change? Recently, I have discovered a program called “21-Day Racial Equity Habit Challenge.” This program presents many different perspectives of racial disparity and allows for dialogue with others. The subtitles include: Watch, Read, Notice, Listen, Play, Act, and Reflect. The modules are outstanding, but the comments and blogging that follow the sections are even more educational. I am working my way through the program slowly, trying to digest and learn from each module by taking up to a week to review and reflect on the content of the day. Yesterday, I watched Day 8 of the series. It was a ‘Watch’ day entitled, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man.” It was the first video of a series being led by former NFL player Emmanuel Acho. I have now watched all of the videos made and have found them to resonate with me. It is a forum where

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| IPA President

people can ask their questions about racism in a safe space. Many of the questions you may already have are being asked in the video, and the conversation is honest, open, respectful, and ultimately illuminating. The perspectives offered are instrumental to furthering healing and to constructing a social framework with equality as a cornerstone. As pharmacists, we have pledged in our pharmacists’ oath to “consider the welfare of humanity and the relief of suffering my primary concerns.” Racism is suffering on a base level, and anything we do to eliminate it will ultimately help relieve that suffering. Educating ourselves on cultural differences also helps us provide better care. This is an easy statement to get behind, but we need to ask ourselves,

what have we done, as an individual and profession, to really listen to our patients to understand their perspectives?

I plan to continue through the series and locate other avenues to further conversations to learn more about how to advocate for all my patients. I also plan on bringing these programs to the attention of IPA staff so that we may integrate some of the principles and present educational programming on this topic to help us all reach a better understanding of each other. I ask all of you to consider doing the same. I encourage each of you to take the time to educate yourselves and reflect during this time of turbulence. There are many conversations happening – find one, listen, contribute, learn, and share. This is just another way as pharmacists we can show that we CARE. ■

HealthCare Hot Topics

Do Masks Really Work?

Despite the skepticism behind wearing a mask to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, researchers emphasize that mask-wearing is two-fold: it can provide protection to the wearer and also protect others around the mask-wearer from catching an infection. According to the CDC, if the majority of the population wore masks and performed other measures like social distancing and washing hands, the United States may see a significant reduction in cases and prevent further waves of the global pandemic.

New Bill Aims to Simplify Medicare Reimbursement for Telehealth in Rural Communities A new bill placed before Congress aims to make it easier for federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics to receive Medicare reimbursement for utilizing telehealth services. This new legislation would simplify the Medicare payment system allow for improved patient care for those in rural areas as telehealth continues to play a vital role in healthcare during the current pandemic.

FDA Approves Farxiga in Heart Failure Patients With or Without Diabetes

Blood Pressure Medications Help Even the Frailest Elderly People Live Longer

Damage from Oxycontin Continues to Be Revealed

Two-thirds of Maternal Deaths Can Be Prevented During or Within a Year of Pregnancy

Prior to May 2020, Farxiga was only indicated for improving glycemic control in patients with adults with type-2 diabetes. Randomized, 18-month, placebocontrolled clinical trials showed significant reductions in cardiovascular mortality, heart-failure-related hospitalizations, and urgent heart-failure visits. The addition of this newer indication makes the drug the first SGLT-2 inhibitor to be approved for this patient population.

Research is showing that Purdue Pharmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aggressive marketing tactics with Oxycontin have extended far beyond what was initially expected. The reformulation introduced in 2010 was intended to reduce abuse of the drug, but instead it contributed to increased heroin overdoses, increased hepatitis B/C infections, and HIV. The legal battle against the pharmaceutical company ended in April but the impact of their role in the opioid crisis will continue proving to be detrimental.

A recent study published by the American Heart Association concluded that taking blood pressure medications as prescribed correlated to decreased mortality in 1.3 million patients over the age of 65. Pharmacists who emphasize adherence to blood pressure medications to patients, no matter their underlying health conditions, can continue to make a positive impact on their patients.

Maternal Mortality Review Committees shared data with the CDC between 2008-2017, showing leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths varying by race/ethnicity and urban/rural regions. Lack of insurance can also impose financial barriers, echoing the importance of expanding Medicaid coverage for low-income women. â&#x2013;

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

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annual meeting 2020 Monday, September 14 – Friday, September 18

Celebrate. Network. Connect.

Monday-Wednesday (Bonus/Optional Events)

Engage. Learn. Lead.

Thursday-Friday (Primary Programming) IPA’s Annual Meeting is the epicenter of pharmacy practice in Iowa. Now taking place virtually September 14-18, the 2020 Annual Meeting will bring pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and student pharmacists safely together from across the state. Through digital platforms, attendees will collaboratively discuss and set policy, share innovative ideas, and make meaningful connections with colleagues. This year’s Annual Meeting will be a week-long event! Primary programming will take place on Thursday and Friday with bonus events occurring Monday through Wednesday. IPA Awards will be presented throughout the week via social media. Visit www.iarx.org/ipaannualmtg for details on all of the week’s events. Join us at Annual Meeting to, as always, advance and celebrate your profession, and leave refreshed and invigorated to better serve your patients!

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THURSDAY

fridAY 7:00-8:00am

Start Your Day with IPA – Virtual Coffee Hour

Keynote – A Chance of Awesome: How Changing the Way You See Changes Everything, Jason & Kim Kotecki

8:00-9:00am

Keynote – Empowering Pharmacists to Care for Patients, Scott Knoer, CEO & Executive Vice President of APhA

House of Delegates: Session 1 The House will act on policy recommendations brought to it by standing committees and individual delegates. Policy committee reports will be posted soon.

9:00-11:00am

House of Delegates: Session 2 The House will act on policy recommendations brought to it by standing committees and individual delegates. Policy committee reports will be posted soon . Keynote – Medicaid Managed Care – An Update from the MCOs, Iowa Total Care and Amerigroup

7:00-8:00am

Start Your Day with IPA – Virtual Coffee Hour

8:00-9:00am

9:00-10:30am

10:30-11:00am 11:00-1:00pm 12:00-1:00pm 1:00-3:00pm 4:00-6:00pm

Keynote – BE The Positive Disruptor, Miss America 2020, Camille Schrier

11:00-12:00pm

Breakout Committee Meetings 12:00-2:00pm

Breakup Your Day with IPA – Virtual Lunch Hour

Conclusion of the House of Delegates

Virtual Exhibit Hall President’s Reception & Formal Virtual Happy Hour Celebrate and socialize virtually as we install Diane Reist as the 142nd President of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. Board of Trustees awards, Bowl of Hygeia, & 50-Year Pharmacist Anniversary awards presented.

Jason Kotecki

Camille Schrier

Scott Knoer

Social Media Awards Schedule Monday, Sept. 14 10:00 am - Health-System Pharmacist of the Year Award Presentation 12:00 pm - Patient Care Partner Award Presentation

Wednesday, Sept. 16 10:00 am - Pharmacy Technician of the Year Award Presentation 12:00 pm - Appreciation Award Presentation (Individual)

Tuesday, Sept. 15 10:00 am - Distinguished Young Pharmacist of the Year Award Presentation 12:00 pm - Appreciation Award Presentation (Corporate)

Thursday, Sept. 17 10:00 am - Robert G. Gibbs Distinguished Pharmacist Award Presentation 12:00 pm - Jerry Karbeling Leadership Award Presentation

Friday, Sept. 18 10:00 am - Honorary President Award Presentation 12:00 pm - Excellence in Innovation Award Presentation 2:00 pm - Poster Presentation Award Presentation

Iowa Pharmacy News

COVID-19 Progress Tracker

Since the early weeks of the COVID-19 outbreak in Iowa, IPA has been recording its communication and advocacy efforts, as well as state and national policy updates related to COVID-19. Updated weekly since mid-March, this resource has assisted IPA staff in continuing to provide current and relevant information to members throughout the ongoing pandemic.

MARCH • • • •

•

IPA hosts first Connecting Over COVID-19 webinars with a total of 304 attendees in March. IPA launches TOP 5 – NOW, an additional weekly email with strictly COVID-19 updates. IPA creates its COVID-19 Resources webpage. Governor Reynolds issues EO with language to temporarily relax pharmacist licensure and pharmacy technician registration requirements by the Board of Pharmacy. Federal COVID-19 Relief Legislation (CARES Act) includes new drug shortages protection, telehealth changes, and COVID-19 diagnostic testing and immunization coverage.

APRIL • • •

• •

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CDC releases guidance for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians during COVID-19. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are added to the HEROES Act. HHS authorizes pharmacists to order and administer COVID-19 tests pursuant to the PREP Act in response to joint recommendations by national pharmacy associations. IDPH issues a PPE Shortage Order in response to the ongoing shortage of PPE among clinics responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. IPA begins surveying hospitals on medication shortages.

iowa pharmacy news

This resource also serves as a historical and organizational document when reflecting on pharmacy practice in Iowa in 2020. A condensed version of IPA’s COVID-19 Progress Tracker is below. View the entire document at www.iarx.org/covid19.

MAY

JULY

• IPA, CEImpact, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, and Siouxland Medication Education Foundation collectively finalize therapeutic interchange clinical guide. • FDA issues emergency use authorization for Remdesivir. • NCPDP issues COVID-19 guidance for pharmacy-led testing. • HHS launches COVID-19 uninsured program portal. • IPA begins hosting Virtual Pharmacy Happy Hours.

• HHS announces securement of 500,000 courses of Remdesivir for U.S. hospitals. • WHO and partners announce $18 billion plan to distribute COVID-19 vaccines when available. • FDA releases guidance detailing expectations for development and licensure of COVID-19 vaccines. • FDA add dexamethasone to the list of drugs that 503B outsourcing facilities and 503A pharmacies may compound under COVID-19. • CDC recommends all Americans to wear masks to prevent spread of COVID-19.

JUNE • IPA hosts webinar on Exploring our Emotions: From COVID-19 to Racial Injustice. • HHS announces new laboratory data reporting guidance for COVID-19 testing. • FDA revokes emergency use authorization for hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine. • IPA joins 24 other state affiliates in a letter to Congressional leaders requesting an increase in federal funding for Medicaid in response to COVID-19. • Gilead begins human testing of inhaled Remdesivir.

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

Iowa Pharmacy News

Virtual IPA Membership Engagement

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, IPA events looked quite different this spring and summer than in previous years. Regular IPA events moved completely virtual, and some new events were introduced! On March 19, IPA held its first Connecting Over COVID-19 webinar and has continued to nearly every week since. Providing practice, resource, and state updates while answering any immediate questions regarding COVID-19, IPA received fantastic feedback on the usefulness of these webinars. Notable guest speakers include: Andrew Funk, Executive Director of the Iowa Board of Pharmacy, Mathew Hosford, Chief Pharmacy Officer at Wellmark, Rick Knudson, Executive Director of Clinical Pharmacy at Mount Sinai Health System, Dr. Caitlin Pedati, State Medical Director and Epidemiologist, and many more. On May 12, the Iowa Pharmacy Association, Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, and the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy hosted the 2020 NAPLEX-MPJE Review Course virtually. Although digital, the course brought various faculty and pharmacist experts together for a full day of programming for those preparing for the NAPLEX and MPJE exams. Over 120 individuals attended the review course. That evening, IPA hosted its first Virtual Pharmacy Happy Hour to allow members to connect and share ideas and concerns in a less formal space via Zoom. Over the next two months, IPA scheduled coffee and lunch hours as well with various themes. Additionally, CPESN-IA joined IPA for several coffee hours to discuss current issues and opportunities related to the COVID-19 pandemic and community pharmacy. IPA successfully held the 2020 Innovation & Research Forum, previously held during Annual Meeting, on June 18-19. IPA welcomed over 50 residents representing all residency programs in the state to present their research projects in 15-minute virtual presentations. These presentations were recorded and made available at www.iarx.org/research_forums.

IPA Staff Changes

Welcome IPA’s 2020-2021 Executive Fellow, Sharmi Patel! On June 22, Sharmi Patel, PharmD, MBA, began her role as IPA’s 2020-2021 Executive Fellow in Association Management. As fellow, Sharmi will be immersed in the day-to-day activities of the association and work closely with IPA staff to continue advancing IPA’s mission. She will work to expand IPA’s clinical initiatives, attend state and national pharmacy meetings, gain exposure to all aspects of association work, and provide insight and assistance to the association.

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Sharmi is from Carol Stream, Illinois and a recent graduate of Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences. In Iowa, she has worked at Walgreens Pharmacy and Methodist West Hospital. She held several leadership positions in organizations at Drake, as well as completed pharmacy practice experience in Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana. Sharmi was selected based on her demonstrated leadership potential, knowledge of the profession, and vision for the future of pharmacy practice. In addition, IPA’s previous fellow, Amanda Abdulbaki, PharmD, is staying on staff as IPA’s new Director of Membership & Engagement. Kellie Staiert has also taken on the new title of Lead Project & Partner Manager.

National Pharmacy Associations Unite Against Racial Injustice On June 5, the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) and thirteen other national pharmacy associations released a joint statement, taking a stand against racism and discrimination in the United States after the wrongful deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and others. The statement declares:

“As pharmacists, we took an oath that includes, as its first statement, “I will consider the welfare of humanity and relief of suffering my primary concerns.” Humanity includes all people, and we have the responsibility in this country to care for those who are disproportionately suffering. As health care professionals, we are trained to provide the best care to all and to “advocate for change that improves patient care.” Advocating against racism, all forms of discrimination and injustice can improve patient care. This is an urgent priority.” By signing on, the national organizations commit to providing opportunities to address health care disparities and strengthen affected communities, providing education on social injustices and systematic challenges impacting health care, delivering strategies that focus on change through communications, partnerships and solutions to address health care disparities, and continuing dialogue among pharmacy organizations and stakeholders to identify and implement change. IPA was deeply saddened by the recent demonstrations of racial violence and communicated its support to stand against racial injustice.

iowa pharmacy news

Planning to Become a CPhT? Join IPA’s Fall Technician Study Group!

Due to COVID-19 and temporary recertification suspension by the Board of Pharmacy, IPA’s Spring Technician Study Group was cancelled. Looking forward, IPA is excited to offer the Fall Technician Study Group virtually for technicians and candidates who will be taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT exam. Visit IPA’s Calendar of Events to register. The fall study group will meet virtually once per week at 8:00 pm starting October 7th and ending December 16th. As of this year, the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) requires technicians to complete a PTCB-recognized education/training program or have equivalent work experience to be eligible to apply for the exam. We encourage Study Group participants to purchase athome study materials, including the following reviewed and recommended for use by the IPA Pharmacy Technician Advisory Committee: 1. Complete Review for the Pharmacy Technician, 3rd Edition; APhA Pharmacy Technician Training Series 2. Pharmacy Technician Certification Quick-Study Guide, 5th Edition; APhA Pharmacy Technician Training Series 3. Manual for Pharmacy Technician, 5e, ASHP 4. Legal Handbook for Pharmacy Technicians, ASHP 5. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists: Manual for Pharmacy Technicians, 4th Edition

Is Your Pharmacy Ready to Implement Technician Product Verification?

Inside IPA’s TPV Toolkit, our Readiness Assessment will give you a gauge of your readiness to implement technician product verification to optimize patient care at your pharmacy practice. The assessment should be completed individually at each unique pharmacy location with input from an owner/district supervisor/ pharmacy director, pharmacist-in-charge/pharmacy manager, and lead technician.

New Episodes for 2020! BOP: What, Why & How is a podcast hosted by IPA’s Casey Ficek with the Iowa Board of Pharmacy’s Andrew Funk or Sue Mears following each Board of Pharmacy (BOP) meeting. Each episode focuses on WHAT actions were taken by the Board of Pharmacy, WHY the BOP took the actions it did, and HOW BOP action will impact practice in Iowa. Listen at:

www.iarx.org/bop_podcast Each podcast episode is ACPE accredited as 0.25 CPE for Pharmacy Law for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Subscribe on iTunes and Google Play.

With the use of this assessment, you will know that it is likely a good time within your pharmacy to consider utilizing technician product verification to optimize patient care delivered by your pharmacists. This readiness assessment is just the first step as you begin the implementation process. To learn more and to purchase the TPV Toolkit, visit www.iarx.org/TPV. ■

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

Iowa Pharmacy News

chasing greatness Amanda Abdulbaki, PharmD

As an undergraduate student, I participated in a leadership development program through which I was first introduced to the phrase ‘chasing greatness.’ It immediately resonated with me, and I decided to make this a motto I would live by throughout my pharmacy career. Pursuing IPA’s Executive Fellowship in Association Management is one of the greatest honors and accomplishments along my journey. Following the association route was not a career path I had planned during pharmacy school, but it was a unique opportunity that sparked a familiar feeling of excitement and inspiration the moment I learned about it. Over the past year, I have been fortunate to work with and learn from IPA’s members, Board of Trustees, pharmacy stakeholders, partner organizations and the absolute best staff anyone could ask for. To this incredible Iowa pharmacy family, thank you is not enough. Although I was new to Iowa, I never felt like an outsider. Through IPA’s Executive Fellowship, I felt absolutely joyous to be at work every single day – even on the bitter cold Iowa days and the days I had to learn to drive in snow! Our work at IPA mattered. It made a difference. Our collective efforts as one unified voice continue to push the needle to advance pharmacy practice in Iowa. The year 2020 hit, and as a professional association, we had both internal and external challenges to overcome. As a staff, we experienced a loss of a dear colleague, IPA’s former Director of Marketing and Communications, David Schaaf. Soon after, COVID-19 and its aftermath changed how we did everything globally. For me, the one stable part of life was my work – even with all the changes involved in working remotely. Some of the most valuable lessons I learned were through observing how IPA’s leadership worked through this

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challenging time, keeping a strong stance of unity and relevance for the profession of pharmacy in Iowa. For a fellowship year full of both challenges and positivity, growth would not have been possible without the leadership and support I received from my preceptors, Anthony and Kate. Thank you for always being there – for your guidance and encouragement to be as successful as possible in everything I accomplished. Mindy, Dawn, Kellie, Marla, Allison, Casey, Laura, and David – thank you for all of your support throughout the year. You all helped me piece things together whenever I was stuck and quickly became like family. To IPA’s Board of Trustees, thank you for your leadership and commitment to Iowa pharmacy. To IPA’s incredible members, thank you for always inspiring me to do more. I am excited and honored to announce that I will be staying on IPA’s staff following my fellowship year as Director of Membership and Engagement. I learned that an important goal to have, in addition to chasing greatness, is to also seek relevance. In my new role, it is my focus to live up to both. ■

Practice Advancement

HIV Project Expansion to Include Hepatitis C Testing

In January of 2019, IPA partnered with communitybased pharmacies across the state in offering HIV testing in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Public Health’s Bureau of HIV, STD and Hepatitis. In addition to HIV testing, this federally funded project also provides funding for HCV testing. IPA is partnering with a community-based pharmacy to add hepatitis C testing in the fall of 2020. Based on statistical data from the Iowa Department of Public Health’s epidemiology report, additional hepatitis C testing is needed in various counties across the state. The HIV testing project currently includes two cohorts of twelve pharmacies. Due to CDC restrictions placed on pharmacies during COVID-19, the free screenings were paused briefly during the spring. With the goal of 40 sites providing HIV screenings, IPA is looking to gain more interest in offering testing in the following counties: Palo Alto, Pocahontas, Emmet, Calhoun, Webster, Humboldt, Kossuth, Clarke, Decatur, Wayne, Lucas, Monroe, Appanoose, and Wapello. These are areas of the state that the Iowa Department of Public Health considers focus areas based on their epidemiology reporting. If you are interested in participating in either project or to learn more, please contact Kellie Staiert, IPA’s Lead Project & Partner Manager at kstaiert@iarx.org.

Mental Health First Aid – Goes Virtual

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Council for Behavioral Health has worked to create a virtual Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) course. New curricula including more content on trauma, addiction, and self-care has been developed over the past year and will be utilized in the new online format. Youth MHFA will also have new content discussing the impact of social media. The virtual MHFA course will have participants complete a two-hour, self-paced class, and then attend a fourhour, instructor-led class through videoconferencing. This course is very timely with the uncertainty and stress that COVID-19 has brought many individuals. MFHA’s campaign, #BeTheDifference, emphasizes the importance of self-care and caring for loved ones during this time.

Don’t Forget to Enroll as an Iowa Medicaid Provider

After passage of legislation and subsequent Board of Pharmacy regulations, pharmacists can provide access to select medications through statewide protocols. Current protocols allow pharmacists to order and administer naloxone, immunizations, and nicotine replacement therapy. In March 2020, the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) recognized provider type 82 – Pharmacist – allowing pharmacists to enroll as Medicaid providers. As an enrolled provider, pharmacists will be able to bill for and receive direct compensation for providing statewide protocol services. IPA encourages all pharmacists to become educated on the process by closely reviewing Informational Letters from Iowa Medicaid as well as reviewing the July 2020 2/2/2 webinar offered by IPA. As you begin the process of completing the paperbased application, be sure to collect all necessary items required based on which statewide protocols you plan to participate in. The IME can take up to seven business days (or as quick as 24 business hours) for screening and review, if everything is properly submitted. Any incomplete forms or missing documentation will result in a request letter being sent to the designated contact via mail that can lead to weeks of delay in the application process. To avoid this, locate the following items before starting the application process: • Copy of Iowa Board of Pharmacy License • Ensure adequate personal professional liability insurance that covers the statewide protocols • Certificate or ACPE-accredited CE program on vaccine/immunization administration • Current Basic Life Support training certificate • ACPE-accredited CE certificate in vaccines, naloxone, and/or nicotine replacement therapy *Note CE is required only for protocols you participate in. As a recognized provider, you as the pharmacist, will be labeled as the prescriber on prescription claims relating to products under statewide protocols. You will also receive direct payment for services provided to your patients. Since much is still unknown regarding the actual billing procedures for services under the statewide protocols, watch for communications from IPA in the upcoming weeks and months ahead. ■

IPA is working to offer virtual MHFA courses in 2020 in direct response to needs of patients in Iowa.

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

CPESN IOWA

Flip the Pharmacy Creates Meaningful Practice Change

Lindsey Ludwig, RPh | Executive Director, CPESN-IA

As I write this article, I am preparing to submit the Team Iowa application to the Community Pharmacy Foundation for a Flip the Pharmacy Cohort 2 transformation of practice grant. CPESN IOWA would not be the network it is today without our many partners, including Tabula Rasa Health Care and PrescribeWellness, our two Colleges of Pharmacy, the Iowa Pharmacy Association, every participating network pharmacy, each engaged pharmacist and even each pharmacy staff member helping to transform toward a new pharmacy practice. The 30 pharmacies participating in Team Iowa Flip the Pharmacy Cohort 1 have achieved some incredible milestones in just the first nine months of the program. Prior to October 2019, only about 2,000 care plans had been submitted by our entire network of over 100 pharmacies. Pharmacist eCare plans were still in their infancy and needed a better pharmacy process to efficiently complete them. Since launching Iowa’s Flip the Pharmacy Practice Transformation Team, our 30 participating pharmacies submitted over 20,000 eCare plans in just 9 months from October 2019 – July 2020! We are currently assessing the data submitted to date in an effort to identify some best practices to share with the rest of the network. While this is an incredible number of care plans submitted on patients, even more incredible is what practice change and care plan documentation has meant to some of our participating pharmacies. I received a testimonial from Jennifer Clayton, President/Owner of Clayton Pharmacy Services, recently about her experience as a participating pharmacist and owner.

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Jennifer openly admitted she was hesitant to apply for Flip the Pharmacy. She owns three small independent practices in north eastern Iowa. Her operation is small and fluctuations in cash flow make taking risks difficult. Her greatest concern related to limited pharmacist availability. They have a lean staff and have one pharmacist per 8.5-hour shift. She knew she would need additional staffing in order to complete the Flip the Pharmacy monthly goals, as well as appropriately cover dispensing duties. She said in the first couple of months she was nervous about her decision. She was receiving some push back from her team, as it seemed like extra work being added to their already busy day. However, they stayed committed, and Jennifer is grateful they didn’t quit. Flip the Pharmacy monthly goals have pushed her team to work at the top of their licenses. Both pharmacists and technicians alike are completing tasks they originally thought impossible to achieve. As a result of the MedSync goals, their percentage of aligned patients in all three locations has over doubled. Only three months into the program, customers ask for MedSync, ask to have oneon-one interventions with their pharmacist, and show an active interest in their outcomes. Jennifer felt she was no longer just “throwing pills in a bottle,” admitting it takes hard work, diligence and perseverance. She said that what she feared to be road blocks have not turned out to be an issue, and trusting the process showed them the light at the end of the tunnel. Now that they have created a system which incorporates clinical services into their daily dispensing work flow process, their patients

CPESN IOWA

understand their monthly visit to the pharmacy involves much more than just picking up pills, and all pharmacy staff feel they are an integral part of the patient’s care team. Jennifer said she has added some payroll costs, however her DIR fees from Jan-June YTD have decreased by almost 50% as a result of their improved pharmacy performance. Better yet, their revenue has increased due to increased prescription capture, an increase in vaccination efforts, and completion of other services. Jennifer has pushed her pharmacy team to become more. She said she is grateful for the opportunity and knows that their team will take the skills learned throughout this process in their future efforts.

Burnout & Resiliency IPA Board of Trustees have adopted the issue of clinician well-being and burnout as a primary goal of IPA’s strategic plan. As IPA continues its mission to empower the pharmacy profession to improve health outcomes, we recognize this important issue and hope our members will find these resources helpful in addressing this important issue within our profession.

www.iarx.org/burnout

The best part is there are more stories just like Jennifer’s across our state and across the country. Practice transformation is occurring, it is achievable, and revenue will follow. As we plan to launch another cohort of pharmacies this fall to “Flip” their practice, I could not be prouder to be an Iowa pharmacist working with and for high-performing pharmacies to create that change. Read Jennifer Clayton’s full testimonial at www.flipthepharmacy.com/post/a-flip-thepharmacy-testimonial. ■

ResilienceRx Podcast iarx.org/podcasts “Fail Forward” interviews & personal growth/ wellbeing tips

Aveea Partners aveeapartners.com Wellness webinars, 1:1 coaching to uncover blind spots and build skills

IMP3 imp3.iowa.gov Support for physical & mental healthy recovery

IPA Resources iarx.org/burnout Information, tools to assess burnout, & resources to build resiliency

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

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The History of Pharmacy During Global Crisis Nathan Karlan, PharmD Candidate, Class of 2021 | University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

The role of the profession of pharmacy has changed drastically over the course of the last century, yet the commitment to providing great patient care when needed most has always remained constant. The current COVID-19 pandemic has placed pharmacists on the front lines of one of the deadliest pandemics in the last 100 years, and, although putting themselves at risk, they have stepped up in heroic ways to provide care to their communities. However, this is certainly not the first time the profession of pharmacy has had to adapt during a global crisis. From the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic to World War II, the way pharmacists conduct themselves during times of global crisis plays a tremendous role in advancing the profession for the future. The current COVID-19 pandemic is no exception. The way pharmacists across the country are currently adapting to provide care to patients and their communities will undoubtedly shape and advance the profession for years to come.

1918 Spanish Flu

Pharmacies in the early 1900s looked significantly different than they do today. Druggists, as they were called at the time, often owned small retail shops focusing on compounding non-sterile medications such as magnesium citrate and salicylates. These drug stores were staples in small town communities, allowing people to pick up their medications as well as a variety of other supplies such as handmade gifts, soda, and even groceries. While greatly respected by members of the community at the time, the role of pharmacists as solidified healthcare providers was brought about by the spread of the 1918 flu pandemic. At the time, very little was known about infectious disease in general, and the influenza virus was not a reportable disease. Spreading from avian origin, the so-called Spanish Flu ravaged soldiers fighting in World War I over in Europe, and it eventually spread to the U.S. in the spring of 1918. By the end of the year, an estimated 28% of the American population had contracted the flu, with deaths reaching 650,000 people. The death toll worldwide was even more

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Alexander Fleming at Work Courtesy, St. Mary’s Medical School Hospital, London

staggering with 500 million (a third of the global population) contracting the virus, killing over 50 million. Drawing parallels with the current pandemic, hospitals at the time were overwhelmed, and makeshift hospitals were erected to manage overflow. The government issued nation-wide lockdowns, schools closed, and people looked to pharmacies to provide essential medications and other services. Various articles written in a popular pharmacy newsletter at the time, The Druggist Circular, described the ways in which pharmacies across the country adapted to patients’ needs during the pandemic. Given the time period’s limited knowledge of infectious disease, pharmacies began providing holistic approaches to help prevent the flu’s spread, including the widespread use of camphor as an odorant. Because doctors were so consumed with treating pandemic patients, people were often sent to their pharmacy to receive treatment for everyday ailments. Pharmacies rearranged the nonmedication sections of their stores to allow for greater compounding of prescriptions. Medications such as magnesium citrate, phenacetin, and salicylates were in high demand, and pharmacists met these demands head-on. Pharmacists also played an instrumental role in public health by advising people to stay home, limit their contact with others, and self-

isolate if they became sick. This increased demand for pharmacy services led to an increased interest in the profession, and the number of colleges of pharmacy rose steadily. Perhaps the greatest change to result from the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic was the shifting view of the profession from essentially a retail store-owner who simply provided medical goods and services to a solidified healthcare provider. People across the country began to trust pharmacists with their medical needs and began seeking counsel on medications and medical conditions. A quote from a pharmacist in The Druggist Circular summed it up best by saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The pandemic] served to establish in the estimation of the public the practice of pharmacy as a profession. That pharmacists saved lives, many lives, is indisputable and that they conducted themselves with conspicuous and self-sacrificing devotion to duty and to humanity is equally conclusive.â&#x20AC;?

World War II

The outbreak of World War II in 1939 saw another instrumental change in the career of pharmacy as the upheaval of American life, coupled with the growing understanding and use of primitive antibiotics,

began to shape the modern practice of pharmacy as we know it today. The attack on Pearl Harbor that entered the U.S. into World War II greatly changed American life, and pharmacies were not exempt to this change. It is estimated that 10,000-14,000 American pharmacists were drafted during the war, leading to a massive loss of pharmacy manpower. Around 15% of pharmacies across the country were forced to close their doors, and the ones that remained open saw a massive increase in demand for prescriptionfilling while dealing with widespread drug shortages of quinine, alcohol, and glycerin. This change in the workforce opened the doors for the advancement of women in the profession, and colleges of pharmacy and employers began actively recruiting women. Prior to the war, only 4% of pharmacists in the country were women, with those numbers increasing by as much as 15% during and after the war. This change in the pharmacy workforce was accompanied by a nation-wide push for citizens to prioritize their health in case their number was called in the draft, once again overwhelming hospitals and doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offices. Similar to the 1918 Flu Pandemic, doctors began referring patients to their pharmacists in order to alleviate some of this demand. This further solidified pharmacists as trusted

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

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healthcare providers who can provide clinical services outside of simply filling prescriptions. The war also brought about another crucial change in the profession: the widespread use of antibiotics. Scottish scientist Andrew Fleming’s work on isolating penicillin from mold cultures in the late 1920s paved the way for pharmaceutical development and the process of new drug discovery that so many pharmacists play a vital role in today. By 1941, 39 pharmaceutical companies in the U.S. began synthesizing inorganic penicillin, and by D-Day in 1944, some 300 billion units of penicillin were available for armed forces of several countries. As the distribution of antibiotics made its way back to civilians, pharmacists once again saw themselves at the forefront of a new age of infectious disease. The profession of pharmacy has changed dramatically since the early 1900s, yet pharmacists’ ability to adapt and meet new challenges has always remained constant. The COVID-19 pandemic of today will surely shape and change the profession for years to come, but if history tells us anything, pharmacists across the country will face these challenges headon while continuing to provide quality care to patients who need it most. ■

Sources 1. McCartney, David. “Transcription and Digitalization of Daily Iowan Newspaper August 1918 - May 1919”. The University of Iowa Libraries. 27 May 2020. 2. “Penicillin: Medicine’s Wartime Wonder Drug and Its Production at Peoria, Illinois.” John S. Mailer, Jr., and Barbara Mason Historical Research and Narrative. www.lib.niu.edu/2001/iht810139.html. 3. Sundin, Sarah. “Pharmacy in World War II: The Pharmacist.” 9 May 2016. www.sarahsundin.com/ pharmacy-in-world-war-ii-the-pharmacist-2/. 4. “1918 Pandemic (H1N1 Virus).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 20 Mar. 2019. www.cdc.gov/ flu/pandemic-resources/1918-pandemic-h1n1.html 5. “150 Years of American Pharmacy: 1918 Influenza ‘Puts Pharmacists to the Test’.” Drug Topics, 5 Nov. 2007. www.drugtopics.com/pharmacy/150years-american-pharmacy-1918-influenza-putspharmacists-test.

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

Japanese-Americans Dr. K. H. Taria and pharmacist Tom Arase at work, Jerome War Relocation Center, Arkansas, 17 Nov 1942 (US National Archives

class of 2020

CONGRATULATIONS! Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Class of 2020 Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences (CPHS) held their 2020 Commencement Ceremony virtually on Saturday, May 16. An additional video ceremony was created for CPHS graduates, and students were introduced as they â&#x20AC;&#x153;crossedâ&#x20AC;? the screen instead of the stage. Three student government representatives reflected on their first experiences at Drake through graduation and provided words of encouragement for the graduates as they start their careers amidst a global pandemic.

Sharon Abraham Andrea Aguilar Leah Amundson Laura Baumgartner Nicholas Bianchini Emily Birakdar Austin Bolker Allison Brask Kaitlin Brueggen Kristen Butler Jessica Caelwaerts Caitlin Carriel Ryan Cecala Michael Chenoweth Kamolchanok Cheung Brandon Daul Kara Eid Spencer Endecott Eileen Engen Molly Everett Madison Fazio Thomas Felker Kendra Ford Ronald Frantz Erica Gannon Grace Geiser Rachel Goettl Megan Goetzl Taylor Gorski Kara Gossen Cassidy Graham Erin Haberman Taylor Hammond

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Hallie Harding Tessa Heitkamp Brianna Hoenig Alysha Hoyt Robert Jedlicka Arianna Johnson Josmi Joseph Karla Knobbe Michael Lang Mackenzie Lasnek Sophia Le Paul Lee Sara Leistico Bret Lentz Michelle Lin Alexander Maciejewski McKenzie Magee Michael Manlick Phillip Masters Alex McCormick Gabrielle McNett Darby Messerschmitt Rebecca Metcalf Kara Metowski Valerie Meyer Garrett Moorman Edward Mueller Samantha Murata Jimmy Nguyen Madison Nissen Jenna Niyongere Joshua Parado

Krishn Patel Sharmi Patel Greta Petersen Lisa Pham Gabriel Podraza Hudson Priebe Drake Reiter Rebecca Rezac Emma Robasse Dylan Sarocco Matthew Schlott Madison Schwarz Paige Schwoebel Erin Simpson Jin Kyung Song Danielle Strelecki Brittany Sulkowski Piper Swanson Justin Taber Rachel Tran Bridget Tunink Joshua Valerius Conrad Wagner Chloe Wall Ian Watson Alex Weber Katlynn Wellington Kelli Jo Welter Iris Wenceslao Shania Wilz Courtney Younge

class of 2020

CONGRATULATIONS! The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Class of 2020 Commencement looked very different this spring for all graduates. Both the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy and Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences held virtual ceremonies. The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy Genesis Board, young alumni who provide opportunities to facilitate student success, started commencement week offering a virtual toast to the graduates. P4 No More, a senior recognition event, took place virtually the night before commencement on May 13. Dean Donald Letendre and Associate Dean Susan Vos welcomed the graduates and their families, and the 2019 Teachers of the Year offered congratulatory messages. The Doctor of Pharmacy Commencement was live-streamed the morning of May 14. Speakers included Dean Letendre, Class President Marjorie Peck, and Secretary Tom Vilsack, former Iowa Governor. Ahmed Abdelgadir Christopher Fox Kristopher Miyakusu Genan Alshawy Mohammed Fredericks Ryan Molander Mona Alsheikh Allison Gardner Nathan Mott Olivia Altemeier Alec Gates Leah Mouw Jordyn Anderson Levi Gates Zachary Mulford Robert Askren Sean Giese Nichole Nunemaker Christine Behrendt Ana Glavas Fadumo Osman Collin Belk Cambridge Hampsher Eesha Patel Brittany Bittner Grace Han Meghal Patel Kebba Bojang Alexander Harlan Marjorie Peck

Michael Boller Hannah Hemry Brenna Robinson Cole Borchardt Dakota Hiner Michael Russell Matthew Boyd Uyen Hoang Caleb Rux Joshua Brausey Caprisse Honsbruch Austin Sack Matthew Busalacchi Kelsey Howland Aaron Schmitz Cheyenne Caldwell Joel Hoyman Paul Scholbrock Kirsten Carstarphen Connor Hunter Nickolas Scott Delaney Cheek Sonja Hutchens Alexa Sieren Jingshi Chen Anne Hwang Spencer Smythe Kevin Chiang Michelle Jakaitis Miranda Staab

Jisoon Chong Sarah Kadura Carolyn Stone Courtney Cobert Tiffany Katz Louis Swaka Kelsey Coffman Tiffany Khachikyan Nicole Therrien Katelyn Corcoran Bret Kinne Diana Theusch Christopher Cozzolino Haley Kirchner Sonya Thiessen Michael Daugherty Alexa Klimek Alexis Thumann Roberta Davis Sherlie Llorens Jay Tieri Courtney Dawson Samantha Marquardt Kelly Tocki Amy Dunleavy Mattison Mason Amanda Toebe Reid Ellingson Matthew McDonald Kristopher Tuttle

Jace Engstler Mackenzie McGraw Bethany Vogts Kyle Erkel Maryanne Menge Kirsten Wells William Evans Samantha Meyer Karli Welter Kelly Ferris Francesca Milavetz Caren Wi Courtney Fischels Austin Miller

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

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A Seat at the Table:

A Student Representative’s Perspective

Joshua Hart | 2019-2020 Board of Trustees Drake University – Student Pharmacist Representative

If this year could be summed up with one word, involvement would be a top contender. In addition to events over the past few months including the start of a global pandemic, the civil rights movement of this era, and an important election year, I am also referring to my own involvement in the Iowa Pharmacy Association (IPA). My time on the IPA Board of Trustees made me reflect greatly on my involvement in the community and pharmacy profession.

Trustees during our April meeting. The board thought, what should our response be? Should we echo the CDC or pull together our own statement from a variety of sources? It was a hard question since information was sparse, and misinformation was growing.

Leading up to Expo, my college was able to take part in a successful food drive with volunteers taking in donations. It filled me with joy knowing I was able to help put on the event and that I had classmates willing to help by donating food and tabling at the Midwest Pharmacy Expo. However, the nature of things soon changed after Expo. This was the last major inperson event IPA was able to host prior to the spread of COVID-19 throughout the state and subsequent shut downs.

One does not need to be working for a cause 24/7 to be considered involved. By getting the word out through social media, IPA can better expand their message of advocacy for the profession and the future of pharmacy in Iowa. For those who want to go a step further, look at attending events (in-person or online) or signing up for a committee in the fall. For students, both sharing posts and attending events not only provides a great opportunity to make connections with IPA members but also provides insight into the issues we may face as practitioners. We have more power as students than we think, and being involved in causes that support our communities will help shape a better future for all. ■

Sitting on the board with experienced pharmacists looking to each other for answers during a pandemic was not something I anticipated when being elected, but who would? This meeting evoked that feeling of involvement I had when I first In April of 2019, I decided to run for learned about my role. The same IPA Liaison at Drake University. I did goes for the most recent board not anticipate being elected, let “It felt empowering meeting where we discussed alone recognize the role I would as a student to have a the message that IPA wanted serve within IPA. Upon learning my to send in regards to racial responsibility as a board member, seat at the table and injustice in the United States. It I realized the importance that my have a say in issues felt empowering as a student voice plays within IPA. I found myself IPA would pursue.” to have a seat at the table and wanting to be more involved in have a say in issues IPA would the change IPA is making for the pursue, including: Medicaid profession of pharmacy. I wanted my pharmacist provider status, friends and colleagues to be more resources for pharmacists making practice changes, actively involved in IPA by joining committees and and even the laws surrounding MTMs in the state. attending IPA events.

Being a healthcare worker in a pandemic is something many were never trained for. There is no pandemic preparedness course taught in pharmacy school. This was a major concern for the Board of

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

Public Affairs

Board of Pharmacy: Regulatory Update New Board Member

Sherill Whisenand was appointed by Governor Reynolds and began serving on the Board May 1, 2020. Her current term will end April 30, 2023. She is the Project Director for the Iowa Secretary of State and has previously served three terms on the Board of Behavioral Sciences.

Board of Pharmacy Legislation

The Board discussed the outcome of several pieces of legislation introduced by the Board. This included the Board’s PMP bill to require schedule V controlled substances, including when dispensed by a pharmacist without a prescription, to be reported to the PMP. This bill passed both chambers and was recently signed by the Governor. The Board also discussed their recommended changes to the Practice Act, which included establishing broad statutory authority for collaborative practice in Iowa, allowing for prescription adaptation, expanding Iowa’s emergency dispensing laws, and changes to telepharmacy staffing requirements. Unfortunately, these did not pass following the suspension of the legislative session in March.

Discussion on Board Guidance Pertaining to COVID-19

The Board discussed conditions which should be met by a graduate pharmacist intern prior to the issuance of an emergency pharmacist license and directed staff to provide detailed guidance. Related to continuing education requirements, the Board determined that there appeared to be no reason to delay or reduce the required hours and would be willing to consider individual waiver petitions if there are pharmacists who are unable to timely complete CE requirements due to COVID-19.

Vote of Adoption on New Regulations

Controlled Substance Registration The Board adopted an amendment to Chapter 10, “Controlled Substances,” of Iowa Administrative Code, that clarifies the Board’s expectation that an individual Controlled Substances Act registrant cancels their registration when the registration is no longer needed (such as when discontinuing practice in Iowa) and, when having done so, is allowed to later renew when the registrant returns to practice in Iowa or wishes to again engage in activities which require a registration for the standard renewal fee. ■

Tune-in to IPA’s BOP: What, Why & How podcast following each Iowa Board of Pharmacy meeting to recap the board’s actions and earn pharmacy law CE. More information at www.iarx.org/BOP_Podcast.

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

public affairs

MCO Update

Throughout the months of April, May and June, pharmacy billing exceptions related to COVID-19 continued to be in place for Medicaid Fee-for-Service and Managed Care patients . The changes and exceptions include: early prescription refills and up to ninety-day-supply allowances, addition of short acting beta agonist inhalers to the preferred drug list due to intermittent drug shortages, suspension of current and delay in start of new pharmacy audits by PBMs, waiver of patient signature requirements on delivered and picked-up prescriptions, and waiver of the $1 .00 patient copays . In addition, the deadline for pharmacies to complete the cost of dispensing survey was extended to April 30, 2020 . On June 1, 2020, Iowa Medicaid announced changes to existing prior authorization criteria for hepatitis C treatments that would take effect July 1 . Patients no longer have to have advanced liver disease corresponding to a Metavir score of 2 or greater fibrosis in order to qualify for hepatitis C treatments . For regimens containing sofosbuvir, renal impairment with a creatinine clearance <30 mL/min or end stage renal disease, are also no longer an exclusion for patients obtaining a prior authorization .

Iowa AG Joins Lawsuit Alleging Generic Drug Price Fixing

Attorney General Tom Miller joined a coalition of 51 attorney generals filing the third lawsuit stemming from an antitrust investigation into a widespread conspiracy by generic drug manufacturers to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition, and unreasonably restrain trade for generic drugs sold across the United States . Between 2007 and 2014, three generic drug manufacturers, Taro, Perrigo, and Fougera (now Sandoz) sold nearly two-thirds of all generic topical products dispensed in the United States . The multistate investigation has uncovered comprehensive evidence of unlawful agreements to minimize competition and raise prices on dozens of topical products .

IPA Legislative Advisory Committee Post-Session meeting

The IPA Legislative Advisory Committee met virtually on July 8 to recap the 2020 legislative session and prepare for the year ahead . This was the second year of a post-session meeting, which has allowed for immediate discussion of what has transpired in the legislative session . This also provides IPA’s

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

lobbying team with a clear sense of direction on IPA’s legislative priorities as they meet with legislators over the summer months. Included on the agenda for the meeting was discussion on re-introducing legislation to expand pharmacist immunization authority, pharmacist test and treat authority, updating Iowa’s collaborative practice laws, and continuing the fight against PBMs. The Committee will still meet in the fall to adopt IPA’s official legislative priorities for the 2021 legislative session.

Federal Update

Since the extent of the COVID-19 pandemic became apparent, IPA has worked diligently to encourage Iowa’s congressional delegation to help position pharmacists to adequately respond and serve patients during this emergency. In March, IPA held a virtual meeting with Congresswoman Cindy Axne and her staff to share pharmacy’s perspective and encourage inclusion of pharmacists in federal legislation. IPA also sent official requests for support from Iowa’s congressional members as signatories on a letter to congressional leadership requesting DIR relief be included in next COVID-19 relief package. All of Iowa’s House Members signed on to the letter to include language permanently prohibiting pharmacy direct and indirect remuneration clawbacks by pharmacy benefit managers. In May, Senator Joni Ernst visited Rex Pharmacy in Atlantic to discuss specific challenges faced by pharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also in May, IPA joined ASHP and 24 other state affiliates in a letter to Congressional leaders requesting an increase in federal funding for Medicaid in response to COVID-19.

CARES Act

IPA has also worked closely with our national partners to lobby Senator Grassley and the Senate Finance Committee for inclusion of provider status and direct and indirect renumeration (DIR) fee relief in one of the COVID-19 relief packages. While these provisions were not included in the CARES act, there is optimism that they will find a place in the next round of COVID-19 legislation expected in August. The CARES act did include several wins for pharmacy though, including new drug shortages protection, telehealth changes, and COVID-19 diagnostic testing and immunization coverage.

Public Affairs

2020 Legislative Session Recap Casey Ficek | IPA’s Director of Public Affairs

Impact for Pharmacists

The 2020 Legislative Session and final year of the 88th General Assembly concluded in mid-June after nearly a three-month suspension due to COVID-19. These unique circumstances presented many challenges in resuming a normal schedule and resulted in many policy priorities being put on hold. However, IPA was still able to help secure several propharmacy policies while ensuring detrimental bills did not reach the Governor’s office.

Victories Medicaid Reimbursement IPA was again successful in ensuring Iowa Medicaid continues reimbursing pharmacies in accordance with a sustainable and transparent methodology. The Health and Human Services budget passed for FY 2021 includes language that will require pharmacies to be reimbursed for products according to average acquisition cost, plus a dispensing fee based on a biannual survey. COVID-19 Liability Protection Senate File 2338, the COVID-19 Response and Backto-Business Limited Liability Act, would prohibit individuals from filing a civil lawsuit against a business or health care organization unless it relates to a minimum medical condition (a diagnosis of COVID-19 that requires inpatient hospitalization or results in death). The provisions, which will be retroactive to Jan. 1, also shield health care providers from liability for civil damages stemming from a health care provider’s acts or omissions while providing or arranging health care in support of the state’s response to COVID-19. Defended Against Harmful Legislation Again in 2020, legislation was introduced that would restrict pharmacies from receiving more than one dispensing fee a month for the same drug. This would have disincentivized practices utilized to increase adherence, such as medication synchronization

and partial fills. With the end of the 88th General Assembly, this legislation is now ineligible for further consideration. Medical Cannabis/CBD Two pieces of legislation related to CBD and medical cannabis also passed during the 2020 session that will affect pharmacists in Iowa. Legislation updating Iowa’s medical cannabis program will now require dispensaries to employ a pharmacist or pharmacy technician, ensuring patients have access to a medication expert. Additionally, legislation passed that will create a legal pathway for pharmacies interested in selling approved over-the-counter CBD products.

Where Work Remains… While these pieces are all positive, much work remains to ensure Iowa pharmacists can practice at the top of their license. Expanding pharmacists’ ability to immunize, test and treat, and reign in PBM practices to ensure the viability of pharmacies are more essential than ever before. While it is unfortunate the session was abruptly suspended with all our priorities still alive and gaining momentum, we plan to continue advocating for pro-pharmacy policies immediately. The road to a successful 2021 Legislative Session starts right now. Here’s how to help: Hosting a legislator at your practice site, sitting down for a meeting to discuss pharmacy, or donating to the Iowa Pharmacy Political Action Committee are essential components to passing meaningful legislation next year. Additionally, if you are interested in the political process and pharmacy advocacy, consider signing up for IPA’s Champion Advocate program. Please contact IPA’s Director of Public Affairs Casey Ficek at cficek@iarx.org to learn more about how you can get involved in IPA’s advocacy efforts this year. ■

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

TECHNICIAN CORNER

All About Remdesivir From IPA’s June 2020 Tech Tidbits newsletter

There are currently no drugs approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe and effective for the treatment of COVID-19. New research from the National Institutes of Health suggests that certain patients with COVID-19 may benefit from receiving the antiviral drug remdesivir. Gilead Sciences, the drug’s manufacturer, released initial study results from an ongoing Phase 3 clinical trial on April 29, 2020 suggesting that some patients with severe cases of COVID-19 experienced shortened time to recovery when treated with remdesivir. Two days after the initial research was released, the FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for remdesivir, enabling appropriate patients to more readily access the investigational drug.

What does the initial research show?

Gilead announced in a press release on April 29, 2020 that initial study results from an ongoing Phase 3 clinical trial, suggested that patients hospitalized with severe cases of COVID-19 who received remdesivir within 10 days of symptom onset were discharged from the hospital earlier than those treated beyond 10 days of symptoms.1 These early results also demonstrate the potential for some patients to be treated with a 5-day regimen of remdesivir. The treatment was generally well-tolerated with the most common side effects being nausea, worsening shortness of breath, and elevated liver enzymes.2 Gilead plans to share additional remdesivir data from the ongoing trial in the coming weeks. Is remdesivir approved for treatment of COVID-19? Remdesivir is considered an investigational drug because it is still being studied. Despite promising initial study results, it is too early to draw conclusions regarding the use of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19. Remdesivir has also not yet been approved for the treatment of any other condition by any regulatory authority. Its use in the United States is currently limited to emergency COVID-19 treatment situations. Clinical trials are ongoing while scientists and medical professionals around the world patiently await the final results.

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What is an EUA?

The FDA made remdesivir available under an EUA, or emergency use authorization, on May 1, 2020. This authorization allows the use of remdesivir, in emergency or life-threatening situations. Medical products made available under an EUA have not undergone the same extensive review process as an FDA-approved product. The FDA criteria to issue an EUA for a product are: • There are no adequate, approved, available alternatives. • It is reasonable to believe that the product may be effective. • The product meets standards for safety, performance, and labeling. • The potential benefits outweigh the potential risks of the drug’s use. • All of these criteria must be met to allow for a product to be used under an EUA. The EUA for remdesivir is set to remain in effect throughout the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency unless new evidence suggests it should be terminated or revoked. Who can be treated with remdesivir? The FDA’s emergency use authorization of remdesivir permits treatment of hospitalized adult and pediatric patients with severe cases of COVID-19. The drug product is only available by Intravenous (IV) infusion. ■

References: 1. Gilead Announces Results From Phase 3 Trial of Investigational Antiviral Remdesivir in Patients With Severe COVID-19. Gilead.com. https://www.gilead.com/news-and-press/press-room/pressreleases/2020/4/gilead-announces-results-from-phase-3-trialof-investigational-antiviral-remdesivir-in-patients-with-severecovid-19. Published 2020. Accessed June 5, 2020. 2. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Potential COVID-19 Treatment. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/pressannouncements/coronavirus-COVID-19-update-fda-issuesemergency-use-authorization-potential-COVID-19-treatment. Published 2020. Accessed June 5, 2020. 3. Remdesivir Clinical Trials. Gilead.com. https://www.gilead.com/ purpose/advancing-global-health/covid-19/remdesivir-clinicaltrials. Published 2020. Accessed June 5, 2020

TECHNICIAN CORNER

COVID-19 Testing From IPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s July 2020 Tech Tidbits newsletter

With testing for COVID-19 rapidly expanding across the state of Iowa, pharmacy technicians will likely be asked questions from patients and family members about types of tests, who should get tested, and the different ways to take samples. It is important for technicians to know this information in order to provide quality care to patients, themselves, and loved ones as this pandemic continues to affect everyone across the state. There are two main categories of testing being performed in Iowa currently, including a diagnostic or polymerase chain reaction (PCI) test, and an antibody or serologic test. The diagnostic test essentially tests for an active infection, usually done through collecting a specimen through a swabbing of the nose or throat (nasopharyngeal swab), which is then sent to centralized labs for analysis. Research into collecting specimens through saliva is also being conducted, but this is not yet commercially available. Pharmacies across the state performing diagnostic tests are training pharmacists and technicians how to observe patients perform their own nasopharyngeal swab to ensure the accuracy of the test results. Therefore, it is important to know what a proper nasopharyngeal swab looks like. Various educational videos are available online (https://health.ucdavis. edu/coronavirus/coronavirus-testing.html) and pharmacies in Iowa performing diagnostic tests will provide these videos to technicians helping in the testing process. Labs such as the State Hygienic Lab are using a Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel, and results are typically seen within 24-48 hours after the lab has received the specimen. There are also two types of rapid PCR tests run on specialized equipment widely distributed throughout the U.S. which can produce results in as little as 13 minutes, yet there are questions about accuracy and there are no pharmacies in Iowa currently using these tests.

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

Serologic tests determine if a person has already been exposed to the virus. The body produces specific antibodies for the virus when exposed or infected, and this blood test measures the presence of these antibodies. Results are usually back within minutes, yet due to potential inaccuracies patients should not make decisions based off this test alone. The test has been known to provide false-positive results in which the test shows the person is positive for antibodies when in fact they are not, as well as false-negative results in which the opposite occurs. It is worth mentioning as well that even if you have antibodies for the virus, researchers are still unclear as to how much immunity or protection the presence of those antibodies brings. In terms of who should and should not be tested, refer to the CDC website (https:// www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptomstesting/testing.html) or the TestIowa website (https:// www.testiowa.com/en) for further instructions and guidelines. By having a strong understanding of the types of COVID-19 tests, how they are performed, and who should be tested, pharmacy technicians across the state can do their part to help flatten the curve while keeping their own safety and the safety of loved ones in mind. â&#x2013;

References: 1. Coronavirus Tests. Coronavirus Today. www.coronavirustoday.com/ coronavirus-tests. 2. Crush the Curve: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing in Iowa. Crush the Curve: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing in Iowa, 2020, www.testiowa. com/en. 3. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing: What You Should Know. Updated June 1, 2020. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing: What You Should Know | UC Davis Health, 2020, health.ucdavis.edu/coronavirus/ coronavirustesting.html. 4. The University of Iowa. The State Hygienic Laboratory COVID-19 Testing, 2020, covidtesting.shl.uiowa.edu/.

Technician Corner

Newly Certified Iowa Pharmacy Technicians

Congratulations to the following pharmacy technicians on becoming PTCB-certified! April 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020

Alexander Albrecht Julie Awtry Desirae Bales Karen Bandy Casandra Batten Hailey Benedict

David Black Caden Burkamper Esmeralda Contreras Victoria Daniels Christina Dettbarn Megan Douglas Samantha Drilling Dylan Erdelt Jennifer Frank Emily Gilbertson Zachary Glanz

Dhanya Gopinathan Nair Lynsea Gordon Edina Grbic Alayna Hansen Lyndsay Hill Rene Hitchcock Ashley Hytrek Kyler Johnson Mersad Kajtazovic Anders Landis Abby Martin

Jade Miller Courtney Mitchell Benjamin Nelson Grace Panneck William Robinson Sydney Ross Kodjo Tovor Makayla Van Beek Adrienne Waller Abigail Whitaker Bryana Whyte

IPA MEMBER BENEFIT Have You Accessed Your FREE Continuing Education Beneﬁts Yet? WWW.IARX.ORG/ACCESSCPE

CEImpact’s Technician Catalog is an online subscription with accessible and convenient continuing education courses for technicians to recertify and advance their career path. Members: Login at www.iarx.org/cei_libraries to take advantage of this new benefit for members and spread the word to your colleagues.

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

IPA FOUNDATION

Going once, going twice, Going virtual

2020 Annual Meeting’s Silent Auction! With this year’s Annual Meeting going virtual, we are excited to offer the IPA Foundation Silent Auction utilizing the SmartPay Anywhere app! With the same great items available, donors can bid directly from their mobile phones, tablets or computers. Items will be available for bidding via SmartPay Anywhere starting September 1. The silent auction will be open for one month, ending on Friday, September 18. If you or your pharmacy would like to donate to the silent auction, please visit www.iarx.org/ipaannualmtg for details on how to register the item(s) you plan to

donate. While items will be accepted up through the week of Annual Meeting, in order to have your item listed in the silent auction catalog, please notify IPA prior to September 11. The IPA Foundation Silent Auction is held each year at the IPA Annual Meeting. Thanks to generous donations of creative auction items and equally generous and competitive bidders, the IPA Foundation raises funds for initiatives to support student pharmacists and practice advancement across the state.

IPA Foundation Board of Directors Term Extended

Due to COVID-19 and the postponement of IPA’s 2020 Annual Meeting to September, the IPA Foundation Board of Directors is serving an extended term. 2020-2021 board members will be installed virtually during Annual Meeting, September 14-18, 2020, and outgoing board members will be recognized. The IPA Board of Trustees will serve the same extended term with transitions taking place at Annual Meeting.

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

IPA RAGBRAI FOUNDATION 2019

Bill Burke Student Pharmacist Leadership Conference

Leadership Pharmacy Conference

The 2020 Leadership Pharmacy conference, presented by the Iowa Pharmacy Association and the Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin, will be postponed until 2021. The ten Iowa pharmacists selected for 2020 will be transferred to the 2021 conference. Congratulations to:

This year’s Bill Burke Student Pharmacist Leadership Conference, originally scheduled for October 2-4, 2020, is postponed until April 9-11, 2021. Applications are still being accepted through October 31, 2020. Apply today at www.iarx.org/billburke.

Thomas Fisher – Clinical Staff Pharmacist at Iowa City VA Medical Center Dawn Grittmann – Clinical Pharmacist at Iowa Total Care Charlie Hartig – Chief Executive Officer at Hartig Drug Benjamin Jagow – Clinical Pharmacist ER/ICU at Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines

Robert Nichols – Clinical Pharmacist at Greenwood Pharmacy

Emily O’Brien – Clinical Pharmacist at Northeast Iowa Medical Education Foundation

Jamie Pitlick – Associate Professor at Drake University Andrew Stessman – Retail Pharmacy Manager at Broadlawns Medical Center Sarah Tierney – Pharmacy Clinical Manager at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Katherine Waack – SRx Pharmacist at SinfoniaRx No additional applicants will be accepted for 2021. Visit www.iarx.org/leadershippharmacy for more information.

Make an impact

Make a donation or join the IPA Foundation Institute with your sustained gift. Your donation to the IPA Foundation supports initiatives to build strong leaders, invest in innovative practice initiatives and secure high-quality education for tomorrow’s practitioners.

iarx.org/IPAFoundation

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

IPA FOUNDATION

STEP, CYCLE, SWING for Student Scholarships 2020 With no IPA Fun-Run, no RAGBRAI, and no EgglestonGranberg Golf Classic in 2020, IPA created a new fundraiser to support student pharmacists at Drake University and the University of Iowa. During the month of August, IPA members ran, biked, golfed, or got active however they enjoy to raise funds for student scholarships. As part of the STEP, CYCLE, SWING fundraiser, participants posted on social media using the hashtag #IPAforStudentScholarships for the chance to win a prize. Over 90 members, both pharmacists and students, registered for this new event, raising over $5,000 for the IPA Foundation and student scholarships. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all! 29 participating IPA pharmacist members

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

also pledged to donate $0.01 for each step taken by a student pharmacist during Step Up for Students, an additional one-day fundraising event on Saturday, August 29. In total, over $9,500 was raised to support student pharmacists in the state. Congratulations to Courtney Krall and Lisa Ploehn for winning the Step Up for Students competition. In 24-hours, Courtney biked 70 miles, acquiring approximately 140,000 steps! Ashley Dohrn was also randomly selected as the hashtag competition winner. Thank you to all who participated. Learn more at www.iarx.org/step_cycle_swing.

IPA FOUNDATION

Summary Reports of the 2019 Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Awardees In 2019, the IPA Foundation awarded a total of $20,450 in grants to two projects through the Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant program. As required by the grant, each recipient must provide a summary of their project and present a poster at IPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Meeting.

About the Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant

The grant program stems from the Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Endowment that was established by the original investors of OutcomesMTM, a medication therapy management, or MTM, service provider based in Iowa. In 1999, the Iowa Pharmacy Association provided seed money to support this innovative startup, which became a national leader in MTM services. Following the purchase of OutcomesMTM by Cardinal Health in 2015, the endowment was created as a way for those original investors to give back to the pharmacy profession and keep the innovative spirit and legacy of the company and Iowa pharmacy alive. Applicants must be an Iowa-licensed pharmacist or an Iowa-based researcher working with Iowa pharmacists in an innovative pharmacy practice. Applicants must also be active members of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. The application deadline for the next grant cycle is December 1, 2020. Information can be found at www.iarx.org/ outcomesgrant.

Community Pharmacist Use of Mobile ECG to Inform Drug Therapy Decision Making for Patients Receiving QT Prolonging Medications Grantee: Jim Hoehns

For patients using QTc prolonging medications, the health care system is challenged to mitigate risk of drug induced long-QT syndrome (DiLQTS) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Community pharmacists (CPs) receive QTc alerts when dispensing, but intervene infrequently. Personal ECG monitors are a new, inexpensive technology that could provide additional patient risk information to identify individuals with prolonged QTc interval in real time. The objective of this project was to determine if CPs can measure QTc interval in patients receiving QTc interval prolonging medications to identify those at highest risk of DiLQTS. CPs were trained to measure QTc interval using the KardiaMobile ECG monitor. English speaking patients aged over 18 years were recruited to have a 30 second ECG tracing if the CP received a computer QTc-related alert or had concern about QTc effect/ interaction. CPs used professional judgment regarding prescriber contact, but were required to contact the prescriber if QTc interval was prolonged. In conclusion of the study, CPs were able to measure QTc interval, identify patients at risk for DiLQTS, and make accepted medication therapy recommendations related to QTc prolongation. Going forward, CP assessment of QTc interval may be a useful approach to improve risk stratification of individuals at risk of DiLQTS and SCD.

Initiation of Pharmacy Services in a Rural Health Clinic Grantee: Naomi Graves

This project has received an extension. Watch for this summary in the next Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association publication!

MEMBERS Section MEMBERS Section

IPA Member Spotlight: Kathy Stone, PharmD Written By: Maia Determan 2021 PharmD Candidate | Drake University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

In the southwest corner of Iowa, just 30 miles from Omaha, you’ll find the small city of Missouri Valley. This rural community of less than 3,000 residents is where IPA member Kathy Stone has called home most of her life. At an early age, she developed an interest in pharmacy after watching her grandfather manage multiple medications and health conditions. “In about 5th grade, my grandpa told me that the person who always helped him the most was his pharmacist…this really resonated with me.” Fast forward to today, Kathy supervises the pharmacy department at CHI Missouri Valley, a critical access hospital. Here, she helps many of the same community members she grew up around. After graduating from Creighton University with a Doctorate of Pharmacy in 2004, Kathy began her first job as the Pharmacy Manager at Medicap Pharmacy in Knoxville, Iowa. During this time, she was named to the President’s Club, an honor given to the best of the best in the Medicap Pharmacy network. Kathy excelled in her position at Medicap but when the opportunity presented, she made the transition into hospital pharmacy and back to her hometown of Missouri Valley. In her current role at CHI Missouri Valley, Kathy gets to “do it all.” Working in a critical access hospital means she sees patients at nearly every point in the healthcare system. From the emergency room and inpatient rounding, to chemotherapy infusions and the CHI rural clinics, Kathy is there providing medications and clinical expertise. In addition, she is the primary contact for CHI’s 340B program and chairs both the local P&T committee, and the division’s compounding committee. She also recently became a Board Certified Sterile Compounding Pharmacist, which will come in handy as she transitions to Pharmacy Compliance Manager while continuing all of her current duties as the Supervisor of the Pharmacy in Missouri Valley in a

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

dual role. This may seem overwhelming, but Kathy says, “The critical access hospital setting is just amazing!” The ability to practice at the top of her license and help people in the community where she grew up makes the job rewarding. Kathy is an active member in the Missouri Valley community, but she did not always plan to stay in the area. During pharmacy school, she was hesitant to practice pharmacy in her hometown because “there was a part of me that didn’t want to take care of the people who were my teachers, coaches and church members…I didn’t want to cross personal boundaries.” When she eventually began working at CHI, she found this was not an issue. “They want to see a friendly face in a small town.” Many people in the community know Kathy as a Sunday school teacher or coach for her kids’ sports teams. As former softball and baseball players, she and her husband have passed down their affinity for the sport to their son (6) and daughter (4). The family also shares a love for bow hunting. Starting October 1st, Kathy has white tail deer on her mind. “Anytime in the fall if I am not working or have somewhere else to be, I will be in a tree somewhere,” she says. It is the perfect sport for their family of early risers. While some shy away from regulatory compliance, Kathy says “that’s my thing.” She has always had an interest in pharmacy law but took a step back a few years ago to focus on starting a family. She says it was the IPA Leadership Pharmacy conference in 2018 that gave her the jump start she needed to start thinking, “What’s next?” It was there that she heard about an opening on the Iowa Board of Pharmacy and was inspired to voice her interest to Governor Reynolds. During her three-year term on the Board, Kathy is determined to keep Iowa pharmacists and pharmacy technicians growing in their role. “I think we’re making

MEMBERS SECTION

headway.” She notes, “Hopefully we can get there with our elected officials as well.” As an organization, IPA recognizes that a healthy and thriving clinician workforce is imperative to ensuring optimal patient health outcomes and safety. For Kathy, preventing burnout is an important part of achieving this goal. She encourages those who may be struggling with burnout in their current positions to “stay focused on keeping peer relationships open, whether it’s a group from pharmacy school or another organization.” For her, this group is IPA. Attending the IPA Annual Meeting and Midwest Pharmacy Expo this past year gave her a chance to reconnect with professional peers and meet new people. “It would be

nice to see more people coming to those things to try to help them get out of the rut and start networking again.” While it can be difficult to put yourself out there at networking events, Kathy says meeting new people is one of her favorite parts of attending IPA events. Being involved in the state association makes her feel energized and connected with her professional peers. If you see Kathy at an upcoming IPA event (virtual or in-person) be sure to say hello! ■

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

MEMBERS Section MEMBERS Section

MEMBER MILESTONES Congratulations to Candace Jordan, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, on her promotion to Pharmacy Department Market Director for MercyOne! Estherville Pharmacy has opened under new leadership. Congratulations to Andy Spurgin, PharmD and business partner, Josh Borer, PharmD, as they bring new pharmacy services to Estherville! Happy trails to Ashley Dohrn, PharmD, BCGP as she and her family move to Colorado! The Iowa pharmacy family is still grateful to have Ashley continuing her work as a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist with Centralized Healthcare Solutions with the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. Congratulations to Angie Nelson, PharmD on her promotion to Vice President of Health, Wellness, and Business Development at Hy-Vee! Congratulations to Drake Reiter, PharmD as he begins his new position as Associate Clinical Pharmacist at Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield! Congratulations to Rachel Digmann, PharmD, as she starts in her new position as Senior Director of Measure Operations & Analytics at Pharmacy Quality Alliance (PQA)! Congratulations to Laura Knockel, PharmD, BCACP, of the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy for being selected as one of five faculty members from across the country to participate in the NACDS Foundation 2020-2021 Faculty Scholars Program. Congratulations, Laura!

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

Congratulations to Kelly Hoenig, PharmD, for being selected for the Cedar Rapids Medical Education Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Class of 2020 Faculty of the Year Award. Congratulations, Kelly! Congratulations to Michael Kelly, RPh, on his retirement from the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy! Congratulations to James Ponto, MS, RPh, BCNP, FASHP, FAPhA, on his retirement as chief nuclear pharmacist at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics! Congratulations to Ed Bell, PharmD, on his retirement as professor of pharmacy practice from Drake University College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences!

In MEMORIUM

It is with sad news that IPA shares the passing of Thomas Vlassis on August 1, 2020. Tom was part owner and pharmacist at Franklin Pharmacy in Des Moines, and served as the 103rd President of the Iowa Pharmacy Association from 1980-1981.

MEMBERS SECTION

Exciting Changes in Membership to Come!

Following the Board’s approval in June, IPA is planning exciting changes in membership to increase engagement and attract new individuals to IPA. Details on the new membership structure being implemented in 2021 will be released during Annual Meeting 2020 in September. Stay tuned to IPA communications for more information. Get ready to renew with a NEW and improved IPA!

Welcome New IPA Members April 1, 2020 – June 30, 2020

Josef Blunier Brad Dondlinger Laurie Hayes Marius Ibuye Sean Jones Benjamin Miskle

Adnan Omanovic Joan Pruisner Brooke Herchenbach Vaughn Koch Addyson Rosa

IPA Career Development Center Providing support for pharmacist and pharmacy technicians – whether early, mid, or late career – the IPA Career Development Center offers individual attention and direction while empowering IPA members to have control over their job search and professional development.

IPA has partnered with RxAshlee, a Career Pivot Expert and Interview Prep Coach, to offer unique coaching for pharmacy professionals looking to nail a job interview, finetune their resume, articulate their own unique brand, and level up their career!

What is RxAshlee? Ashlee Klevens Hayes, PharmD/MHA, is the founder of RXAshlee, a career development company that focuses on teaching professionals how to stand out in a busy marketplace. RxAshlee will emphasize several game-changing, career-building skills, including nailing your elevator pitch, crafting amazing answers, and confidence/mindset master. Learn more at www.iarx.org/careercenter

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

PLATINUM BUSINESS PARTNER

Elevate the level of care you provide your patients.

www.iarx.org/platinum Platinum Business Partners receive all the benefits of a standard business partner plus access to higher level of services and resources from IPA. Here’s what some of our Platinum Business Partners have to say: “Although IPA is well positioned to address many of our hospital pharmacy concerns, one area we really needed their assistance was with getting a pharmacy residency program started. IPA customized our platinum business partner membership to meet our specific needs and created a detailed proposal for us that included planning for accreditation, staffing, and budget requirements for us to present to our executives for final approval. IPA’s help has been instrumental in providing us with insight and resources for us to foster innovation to across our pharmacy department and further drive the mission and vision of our institution.”

“Our company joined as a Platinum Business Partner with IPA approximately one year ago. Not only do we feel more connected to what’s going on in the industry, legislature, and within the organization, we also have a direct line of communication for any questions/concerns or help on matters that affect our business. One example is the help that we received from IPA in bridging some communication problems we were having with the MCO’s regarding DME billing. Thanks to the contacts they have established with members of those organizations, we were able to get the assistance we needed for billing claims. We gain a lot of information through our quarterly touch-base phone calls and also appreciate the discounts on various resources thanks to our PBP membership!”

– Doug Wetrich, Director of Pharmacy Mary Greely Medical Center

– Heather Storey, Pharmacy Manager, Clinical Consultant Lewis Drug

IPA in ACTION

IPA Participates in Virtual MAAC Committee Meeting

For the last few years, ASHP has convened minivirtual House of Delegates sessions in the spring and fall, which served well as the primary sessions for June 2020 convened in a similar fashion. With 99% of delegates voting, the ASHP House approved eight policies and one statement, including topics on: Credentialing and Privileging by Regulators, Payers, and Providers of Collaborative Practice; Importation of Drug Products; Safe Use of Transdermal System Patches; and the ASHP Statement on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Pharmacy.

‘Zoom’ Pharmacy Forward

Mark your calendars for the 2021 ASHP Summer Meetings set to occur on June 5-8, 2021 in Long Beach, CA.

In May, IPA participated in a virtual meeting of the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee. As one of six voting members representing professional and business entities on the MAAC, whose purpose is to advise DHS and IME about health and medical care services under the Iowa Medicaid program. In May, the committee received updates from Director Mike Randol and the MCO’s regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the Iowa Medicaid program.

The APhA-ASP Annual Meeting was scheduled to convene in Washington D.C. on March 20-23. Due to COVID-19, the meeting converted to a virtual arrangement to still allow for the event to occur and let attendees network with leaders from across the country, honor award recipients, and learn about the latest trends in the industry. While numerous IPA members engaged within the virtual Annual Meeting, a spotlight was on IPA member, Dean Donald Letendre from The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy. He was awarded the Outstanding Dean Award by APhA-ASP. The Outstanding Dean Award recognizes a pharmacy Dean who has made contributions to APhAASP chapters, and who has promoted student pharmacists through various activities including: community service, leadership and professional events. The 2021 APhA Annual Meeting is scheduled to occur on March 12-15, 2021 in Los Angeles, CA.

ASHP Summer Meetings & House of Delegates Moves Virtually

As with other national pharmacy conferences, the 2020 ASHP Summer Meetings were moved to a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ASHP House of Delegates was still able to convene in a virtual format in order to approve key policy and position statements of the organization. Key sessions that were set to occur in June are still being offered online that are no cost to members and non-members of ASHP.

Iowa Governor’s Conference on Public Health Convenes Virtually

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Iowa Governor’s Conference on Public Health (ICGPH) canceled their live, in-person gathering and held the event virtually, April 14 – May 1, for the planned presentations. The keynote speaker, Dr. Rosie Ward, gave a presentation on Rehumanizing the Workplace, and raised the issue that “7 out of 8 people in the American workforce work for an organization that doesn’t care for them.” Dehumanized work environments have many negative effects on its employees including reduced productivity, decreased mental health, increased burnout, and additional healthcare expenditures. Dr. Ward proposes a five-step process to reset and rehumanize the workplace, especially during these difficult times. In addition to the keynote presentation, there were 29 additional breakout sessions held through virtual webinars. These presentations were given by public health students and professionals from around the state. The Iowa Public Health Association recorded each presentation and posted them on their YouTube page for future viewing.

JUL.AUG.SEPT 2020 |

Pharmacy Time Capsule MEMBERS Section

19 75

Issues & events that have shaped Iowa pharmacy (or are fun to remember!)

January:

Effective January 1, the minimum wage for employees of community pharmacies was $2.10 per hour. Minimum wage rates for hospital employees was $2.00 per hour.

February:

A “Mini-Review for Practicing Pharmacists” on essential hypertension appeared in The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association. The two classes of drugs highlighted for essential hypertension included diuretics (HCTZ, quinethazone, chlorthalidone, metolazone, and furosemide) and sympathetic blocking drugs (reserpine, methyldopa, guanethidine, trimethaphan, pentolinium, and clonidine). Later this year, captopril, the first orallyactive ACE inhibitor, was discovered.

May:

David W. Rambo, a Decorah-based community pharmacist and owner of Rambo Drug, was the recipient of the Bowl of Hygeia award for outstanding community service.

June:

The University of Iowa College of Pharmacy implemented a new curriculum. The revisions provided students with the necessary background upon which to build clinical pharmacy work which was placed primarily in the 4th year. Enrollment at the College of Pharmacy was 403 students this year.

Fiedler, Dennis Killion, Susan Lutz, Robert Osterhaus, and Angelo Palmer. IPA appointed Dr. Joe Norwood to represent the association for the Health Manpower Plan. This project was a funded study to identify manpower shortages in Iowa, prioritize these shortages, and make recommendations to resolve them for medicine, dentistry, podiatry, optometry, pharmacy, nursing and veterinary medicine.

September:

The commissioner of the FDA, Alexander M. Schmidt, praised IPA for its participation in the Food and Drug Administration’s Drug Defect Reporting Program. He was quoted stating, “Please accept my sincere appreciation for your support of this important program, and we look forward to a continuing cooperative relationship with you in the future.”

October:

John Ballensky, R.Ph., was appointed by Governor Robert D. Ray to a three-year term on the Iowa State Board of Health. His appointment to the board ended a long, sustained effort by IPA with the Governor and Commissioner of Public Health to have a pharmacist named to the board.

July:

A survey conducted by George R. Parker of Drake University, titled “Consumers’ Views of Pharmacy,” found 57.4% of Des Moines residents surveyed thought pharmacists knew more about drugs and medications than doctors, compared to only 40.1% who thought doctors knew more.

August:

Six new members and one holdover were appointed by Governor Robert D. Ray to the restructured sevenmember Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners. The board members included Max Eggleston, Venetta

| The Journal of the Iowa Pharmacy Association

IPhA officers at the 1975 IPhA Convention. Left to right: Treasurer Jack Bare; Vice President Rollin Bridge; Past President Leonard Wicks; President William Deets, and President-Elect Darwyn Williams. Max W. Eggleston, R.Ph., center, owner of Stauffer Pharmacy, Waverly, is presented Marion Laboratories’ “Service to Pharmacy Award”.

calendar of events

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

september 2020 8

IPA 2/2/2 Webinar

14-18

Virtual 2020 IPA Annual Meeting

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october 2020

7-12/16 Virtual Technician Fall Study Group 2020 13

IPA 2/2/2 Webinar

18-19

Virtual NCPA Annual Convention & Expo 2020

20-23 Virtual AMCP Nexus 2020 21-23

Virtual ASHP National Pharmacy Preceptors Conference

21-25 Virtual IDWeek 2020 24-27 Virtual 2020 ACCP Annual Meeting 24-28 Virtual 2020 APHA Annual Meeting & Expo 26-11/5 Virtual AAPS 2020 PharmSci 360

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27-28 Iowa Board of Pharmacy Meeting

(Des Moines, IA)

november 2020 10

IPA 2/2/2 Webinar

12-15

ASCP 2020 Annual Meeting & Exhibition (Kissimmee, FL)

Virtual NAMI Iowa 2020 Annual Conference

Currently scheduled events are subject to change due to COVID-19. Please continue to watch IPA communications regarding any updates.

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IPA Journal Jul/Aug/Sept 2020

Articles inside

Calendar of Events

Pharmacy Time Capsule

Technician Corner

IPA Foundation

Members Section

IPA in Action

Public Affairs

Student Column

Iowa Pharmacy News

2020 IPA Annual Meeting

CPESN

Practice Advancement

Class of 2020

COVER STORY: The COVID-19 Pandemic

President’s Page

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