pennsylvania
PHARMACIST Jan/Feb 2018 • Volume 99 • Issue 1
Cheers to 140 Years
Celebrating a rich history and a bright future of advocating for the profession and advancing patient care
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CONTENTS PPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS PPA OFFICERS President: Nick Leon, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP President Elect: Lauren Simko, PharmD Vice President: Rick Demers, RPh, MS, FASHP Immediate Past President: Eric Pusey, RPh, CDE REGIONAL DIRECTORS Central: Richard Seipp, PharmD Northeast: Thomas Franko, PharmD, BCACP Northwest: Nickolas Kernich, PharmD Southeast: David Stone, PharmD Southwest: Cory Krebs, RPh PRACTICE DIRECTORS Academia: Nicole Pezzino, PharmD, CED, BCACP Chain Pharmacists: Stephen Pfeiffer, PharmD, MBA Community Independent Pharmacists: Shawn Nairn, RPh Community Independent Pharmacists: Chuck Kray, RPh Health System Pharmacists: Darryle Tillman, RPh MCO/Industry/Government/Other: John Barrett, MBA, RPh Associates: Greg Drew, RPh STUDENT DIRECTORS East: Amandeep (Amni) Kaur West: Tina Schuler PPA OFFICE STAFF CEO: Patricia A. Epple, CAE pepple@papharmacists.com | Ext. 3 Director of Professional Development: Sara Bowden sbowden@papharmacists.com | Ext. 2 Government Relations Manager: Jeff Stuby jstuby@papharmacists.com | Ext. 6 Membership and Marketing Coordinator: Victoria Madonna vmadonna@papharmacists.com | Ext. 5 Membership and Program Coordinator: Rachel Stall rstall@paharmacists.com | Ext. 1 Bookkeeper: Michele Dibble mdibble@papharmacists.com | Ext. 4 PPCN Executive Manager: Mindy Kozminski, PharmD, BCACP mkozminski@papharmacists.com PPCN Trainer: Brandon Antinopoulos, PharmD ppcntrainer@papharmacists.com Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association (PPA) 508 North Third Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101 (717) 234-6151 Fax: (717) 236-1618 www.papharmacists.com | ppa@papharmacists.com Pennsylvania Pharmacist (ISSN 0031-4633) is the official publication of the Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Association d/b/a Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association and is published every other month, six times per year. Annual subscription is $100 for non-members; for members it is included in the annual dues. Editorial information should be addressed to the PPA address listed above. Peer reviewed articles accepted according to the stated guidelines available from PPA.
EDITORIAL BOARD Position Vacant Hershey S. Bell, M.D.,M.S.,FAAFP Kim Coley, FCCP, PharmD, RPh Michael Gionfriddo, PharmD, PhD Yardlee Kauffman, PharmD, MPH, BCACP
ON THE COVER Celebrating Our 140th Anniversary 140 years have passed since our association was founded. We are so grateful for our members who started this association, our members who are currently maintaining it and for our future members who will enrich it.
DEPARTMENTS
ASSOCIATION NEWS
5 Calendar of Events
27 Call for Awards Nominations
7
28 2018 Mid-Year Conference
President’s Message
8 Welcome! New Members 10 Campus Checkup 15 Member News 15 Affiliated Member News 18 Member Profile FEATURES 18 Member Profile 19 Student Member Profiles 20 Pharmacy Spotlight 22 Legislator Profile 24 The Final Report: Electronic Cigarettes
30 Meet the 2018 PPA Educational Foundation Board of Directors 35 PPA Announces a New Logo Design 37 Call for Nominations JOURNAL NEWS 38 Pharmacists’ Perceptions and Baseline Knowledge Assessment of a Statewide Nalozone Standing Order
32 Celebrating 140th Anniversary
Associate Editor: Victoria Madonna Editor/Manager: Pat Epple PUBLISHED BY GRAPHTECH Alexis Kierce, Publications Manager (717) 238-5751 x119 alexis@thinkgraphtech.com For Advertising Information: Kristen Bergmaier, Account Manager (717) 238-5751 x129 kristen@thinkgraphtech.com DESIGNED BY GRAPHTECH PHARMACIST STATE BOARD OF PHARMACY MEMBERS Institutional: Gayle Cotchen, BSPharm., PharmD., MBA Independent Community: Rob Frankil, RPh Chain Community: Janet Hart, RPh Chain Community: Theresa M. Talbott, RPh Independent Community: Mark J. Zilner, RPh Board of Pharmacy Meeting Dates: January 10, 2018 February 27, 2018 April 10, 2018 May 22, 2018
OUR VISION Pennsylvania pharmacists will be recognized, engaged, and fairly compensated as health-care providers. OUR MISSION The Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association, as the leading voice of pharmacy, promotes the profession through advocacy, education, and communication to enhance patient care and public health.
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Calendar of Events
Advertisers Index
January 25-28
Smith Drug Company
Mid-Year Conference 2018 Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Lancaster, PA
26
Educational Foundation Board of Directors Meeting 3PM
27
PPCN Board of Directors Meeting 10AM
28
4
RDC
Wilkes University
LECOM
R.J. Hedges
14
Value Drug Company S&L Solutions LLC
H.D. Smith
25
McKesson
26
16-19
PRS
APhA - PA Reception 6PM
16
21
22
March 12
17
9
12
EPIC
APhA — Annual Meeting — Nashville, TN
6
Thomas Jefferson University Jefferson College of Pharmacy
PPA Board of Directors Meeting 9AM
Health System Pharmacists — Journal Club
2
Hayslip & Zost
24
31
EPIC
36
IPBG
39
Pharmacists Mutual
Back Cover
April 14
Law Review at Duquesne University
16
Legislative Day at the Capital — Harrisburg, PA
26
PPA Board of Directors Meeting 10AM
May 10
Law Review at Philadelphia College of Pharmacy
For additional events including webinars, CE opportunities, and PPA committee meetings, be sure to see our Calendar of Events on the PPA website!
www.papharmacists.com 5
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President’s Message At the time of this writing, Thanksgiving has just passed, the holiday season is upon us, and a calendar year is speeding towards its end. Like many (hopefully all) of you, I cannot help but be overwhelmed at everything there is to be grateful for including the type of life that being a pharmacist has afforded me — the opportunity to provide stability and opportunity for my family while being able to “do well by doing good”. Although there are a lot of people to thank, I would like to use this President’s Message to give a sincere THANK YOU to PPA’s staff and members. I think I can speak for every past-president when I say that PPA (the organization that serves and protects our livelihood in Pennsylvania) would not be the prominent, financially stable, and practice advancing professional organization that it is today without its dedicated staff, especially our CEO, Patricia Epple. Over the 15+ years that Pat has been with us, PPA has successfully fulfilled its mission and has made tremendous progress towards turning its vision into reality. If you don’t believe me, consider how the practice of pharmacy in Pennsylvania has changed for the better over the past 15 years — there is more than a good chance that Pat Epple and PPA played a significant role through advocacy, education, and communication. If any of the directions I have helped to set during my time on the board have even a fraction of the continuing, positive impact on the association that hiring Pat has had I will consider my time in PPA leadership a resounding success. THANK YOU, Pat. As I reflect on the work of the association in protecting and advancing our profession, even the most capable leader would fail to be effective without a hard working staff and driven volunteers. At the upcoming mid-year conference January 26–28th at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, I urge you to thank the hard working PPA staff who you will see running around tirelessly on our behalf (which is not much different than what it looks like at the PPA office mind you). They make the organization go so that we (the members) can “Keep Calm and Care On”. Sara, Jeff, Victoria, Rachel, and Michele — THANK YOU! Last, but not least, I would like to thank all of our members. While I am quickly running out of space to write, I want to emphasize that we have a strong association because of you! During my time as an officer, there have been countless committee meetings and calls that have taken place, continuing education sessions that have been delivered, appointments scheduled with legislators, documents that have been written or created, and thousands of volunteer hours given — all for the goal of promoting and advancing our profession. To our members — THANK YOU! I would like to wish all of our members a happy, safe, and prosperous new year. If, as part of your new year’s resolution, you are interested in becoming more involved in the association, please feel free to contact any of PPA’s wonderful staff who would love to have the opportunity to find a way to match your interests with PPA’s committees and initiatives.
Nicholas Leon, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP PPA President 2017–2018
I think I can speak for every past-president when I say that PPA (the organization that serves and protects our livelihood in Pennsylvania) would not be the prominent, financially stable, and practice advancing professional organization that it is today without its dedicated staff, especially our CEO, Patricia Epple. — Nicholas Leon
www.papharmacists.com 7
Welcome New Members PPA Welcomes the following New Members who joined the association on October 6, 2017 – December 1, 2017. Please make these new members feel welcome and part of Pennsylvania pharmacy! PHARMACISTS Brianna Antonucci, Greensburg, UPMC Health Plan John Boyle, Warrington Lana Eichenlaub, West Decatur, Moshannon Valley Pharmacy Sandra Heinbach-Oesterle, Pine Grove William Kolash, DuBois, DuBois Drug & Wellness Ryan Mercado, Philadelphia, Davita Matt Newton, Pottsville, Towne Drugs, Inc. Chad Robinson, Cochranton, Cochranton Community Pharmacy Erin Thomas, Central City, East Hills Family Pharmacy Sara Weinstein, Pittsburgh, UPMC Jamie Wyels, Glenshaw, Chambers Apothecary Tyler Young, Chambersburg, Walmart Pharmacy
PHARMACY TECHNICIANS
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy
Jennifer Dickens, Philadelphia
Jacklyn Suarez, Philadelphia
Michelle Haldeman, Middletown, Milton Hershey Medical Center Donna Slater, Ashland Kim Sullivan, Easton, Vita Medical Associates, P.C.
STUDENTS Duquesne University School of Pharmacy
Rachel Hatch, Philadelphia
Temple University School of Pharmacy Kendra Adams, Elkins Park Shelby Amoo-Mitchual, Mount Joy Jocelyn Black-Paul, Philadelphia Natalie Chambers, Berlin, NJ Macey Chan, Secane
Eunjoo Hong, Pittsburgh
Stephanie Cheung, Philadelphia
Ettien Kadjo, Pittsburgh
Lazina Chowdhury, Upper Darby
Jessica Murray, Hummelstown
Veronika Colomy, Elkins Park
Victoria Nesbitt, Doylestown
Erin Connor, Brigantine, NJ
Jefferson College of Pharmacy Hina Anwar, Collegeville Maggie Lycouras, Camden, NJ Brandi Steady, Dover, DE
Briana Coughlin, Lansdale Rachel Delucy, Philadelphia Ruth Garcia, Ambler Alexander Haines, Northampton Brittaney Hicks, Bossier City
Jazmine Robertson, Pittsburgh, Walgreen’s Specialty Pharmacy
LECOM School of Pharmacy
Sophia Khan, Lawrenceville, NJ
Ashley Robold, Bensalem, ACME Pharmacy
Christina Bizzarro, Erie
Kyle Lamb, Columbia
Christopher Evans, Erie
Cara Crysyalyn Laporte, Philadelphia
Lucas Shumaker, Canonsburg, Hometown Pharmacy
Jordan Frederick, Erie
Jeanne Le, Doylestown
Destiny Hartzell, Franklin
Parichhya Luitel, King of Prussia
Michael Stanley, Pittsburgh
Erica Jackson, Ebensburg
Tara McKenna, Woodlyn
Christopher Tanski, Enola, UPMC Pinnacle
Cristina Mazzocchi, Erie
Jenna Meixsell, Philadelphia
Tyler Young, Chambersburg, Chambers Apothecary
Debra Nye, Erie
John Nagy, Langhorne
Maria Peluso, Erie
Kevin Nguyen, Philadelphia
Roger Raby, Jr., Meadville
Ngoc Nguyen, Philadelphia
ASSOCIATES
Shakira Smith, Erie
Felix Otti, Philadelphia
Brian Roy, Macungie, Peerless Business Advisors
Ohio Northern University
Robert Toenniges, Pleasant Garden, NC, EPIC Pharmacies, Inc.
Hunter Roach, Canonsburg
Venera Pano, Philadelphia Kevin Pearson, Philadelphia Kathy Pham, Philadelphia Martha Philips, Philadelphia Mohammad Rahman, Philadelphia
8 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
JEFFERSON COLLEGE OF PHARMACY A Winning Combination: JCP and You At Jefferson College of Pharmacy, we work with our students to understand their passions for patient care and provide them with opportunities where they can thrive. At Jefferson, pharmacy practice experience begins on entry and expands through classroom, laboratory and personal selection of professional development experiences. Jefferson prepares individuals to become dedicated pharmacists able to make a difference in their community. Contact us to learn more. 215-503-8890 | Jefferson.edu/Pharmacy
Welcome New Members continued Kimia Sadeghi, Ambler Andrea Sampson, Philadelphia Gautam Sarikonda, Malvern Elayna Silfani, Philadelphia Brian Singer, Philadelphia Jessica Spiller, Philadelphia Chanel Tam, Philadelphia University of Findlay Erin Siegel, Marble
University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy
Alyssa Korman, Carbondale
Alyssa Lear, Jefferson Hills
Bryce Kurtz, Watsontown
Spencer Schlecht, Pittsburgh Wilkes University Nesbitt School of Pharmacy Kaitlyn Blankenhorn, Meadowbrook Michael Bulkley, Berwick Elena Denger, Nazareth Harrison Ferro, Berwick Aleksey Gitelson, Shavertown
Jessica Kouch, Philadelphia Lilyann Nguyen, Harrisburg Cassie Oldt, McClure Stephanie Ostir, Clifford Township Kayla Reese, Nesquehoring Rachel Seidel, Bloomsburg Leslie Shumlas, Pittston Township Anthony Stambone, Jessup Nevina Trunzo, Wiliamsport
www.papharmacists.com 9
Campus Checkup LECOM Hosts MRM Regional Meeting There are so many conferences for student pharmacists to attend, from the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association conferences that connect student pharmacists to their state to national conferences like the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meetings that host tens of thousands of pharmacists each year. But there is a unique group of meetings that offer a student-planned weekend with student-centered programming in eight cities across the country: the American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists Midyear Regional Meetings (APhA–ASP MRM). Each APhA-ASP MRM is run by an APhA–ASP National Executive Committee member and three elected APhA-ASP regional officers. This year, at the Region 2 MRM in Pittsburgh in early November, two of the regional officers hailed from Pennsylvania: Margaret Kronz, the 2016–17 MRM Coordinator, and Michelle Cottino, the 2016–17 Regional Delegate.
During the weekend, Dr. Hershey Bell M.D., M.S., FAAFP, the dean of the LECOM School of Pharmacy, spoke on policy and provider status legislation, detailing how these issues tie into the APhA–ASP national theme “Begin Your Legacy.” Some other exciting sessions offered to attendees included a Regional Policy Forum; the Career Development Application Bootcamp, which walked students through the process of writing a CV and securing a positon during an interview; and chapter leader development sessions that allowed students with similar positions in different chapters to share ideas and troubleshoot any obstacles they have faced. We wish to extend a big thank you to the APhAASP Region 2 MRM’s supporters, LECOM and the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association, for generously giving student pharmacists across the region a chance to experience the power of policy, networking, and the future of pharmacy.
Duquesne University School of Pharmacy Contributed by: Kelly Mazzei, Communication Ambassador The Duquesne Chapter has been very active during the month of October. We hosted a letter writing campaign event on campus and had a large group of students attend. Events like these can further the profession of pharmacy and contribute to our causes. These events also help to get students more involved in the organization and its goals. Our chapter is also sponsoring the ACPA toy drive on campus through the rest of November with the hopes of gathering lots of donations to give to the children in our community.
10 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
Jefferson College of Pharmacy Contributed by: Nicole Leshko, Communication Ambassador Jefferson College of Pharmacy’s PPA and APhA-ASP members teamed up to conduct a free blood pressure screening event at Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience on November 7th. Together, first year through fourth year students successfully screened over thirty individuals in the community during this event. Jefferson College of Pharmacy is excited to continue this event in the upcoming spring semester to help continue screening the members of our community!
LECOM School of Pharmacy
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy
Contributed by: Clare Dyczkowski, Communication Ambassador
The PPA Chapter at PCP held their first general meeting on October 12th where membership benefits and upcoming events were discussed. The chapter’s first fundraiser of the semester is well under-way and will end on December 1st. For this fundraiser, current PPA members asked students to contribute donations to buy “Rory the Lion” stuffed animals. These lions will be delivered to patients at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The proceeds from this sale will go towards the PPA building fundraiser as well as help support the PCP chapter and future projects. This fundraiser has been very successful thus far and it is expected that 20 lions will be donated. The chapter’s next general body meeting will be held on November 30th in conjunction with the “GRASP the Chip and Pass the Salsa” event. Here the goal is to build interest in government and policy by incentivizing students with chips and salsa to come complete the Government Relations Advocacy for Student Pharmacists online training program. As 2017 comes to a close, this GRASP event will work well to cap off the semester and set the tone for future PPA events in this next year.
At LECOM Erie, we have had a busy couple of months. We had our membership drive meeting on October 9 to speak again to students to encourage them to join PPA and highlighted PPA’s upcoming events. On November 21, we had our first general membership meeting to discuss chapter updates and complete the first GRASP module. Nearly 20 students were in attendance! We also have had a few changes in leadership. Michael Coulter has taken over as Director with Shakira Smith replacing him as our Membership Ambassador. Our Alternate Director will be Carly Church. Additionally, to help mentor other students, we have elected several P1’s as co-chairs in supportive roles. Erica Jackson will be our Membership Ambassador Co-Chair, Maria Peluso will be our Communications Ambassador CoChair, and Debra Nye will be our Government Relations Ambassador Co-Chair. We are so happy to have them on board to help us grow PPA at LECOM Erie!
Contributed by: Brooke Witmer, Communication Ambassador
Continued on page 13
www.papharmacists.com 11
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Campus Checkup Ohio Northern University Contributed by: Connor Rowan, Communication Ambassador As the semester comes to a close, the ONU chapter of PPA has been wrapping up its activities. We have been encouraging participation from our members in the GRASP modules to offer opportunities for our Pennsylvania natives to familiarize themselves with laws and issues in their home state. Furthermore, our members have become more involved in other professional organizations, including APhA-ASP and SSHP, making our organization much more present on campus. We are currently setting goals and planning events for the upcoming spring semester. We are eager to accomplish even more in the spring!
University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Contributed by: Kelly Jenniches, Communication Ambassador The fall semester flew by and Pitt’s PPA chapter ended on a positive note. Last semester we were able to educate dozens of kids ranging from 1st to 6th grade about over-thecounter cough and cold medication safety as well as benefits of the flu shot. We were able to accomplish this through several events held at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and at the Shadyside Boys and Girls Club. We were also able to spread holiday cheer by sponsoring our annual toy drive for Matilda Theiss throughout the months of November and December. We are looking forward to this spring semester! Within the first couple of weeks we will be holding our annual OTC chapter competition. The winners of this competition will then compete against other pharmacy schools at the Mid-Year Conference, which is quickly approaching. We are
continued
excited to be finishing up the process of planning blood pressure screenings that will be held around campus. We hope to reach out to as many people as possible. In addition to these events, we will continue to prepare for Legislative Day through our general body meetings and by promoting the GRASP program. It will be here before we know it!
Temple University School of Pharmacy Contributed by: Andrew Finkelston, Communication Ambassador The past few months have been quite busy for Temple PPA. We have been advocating for provider status by presenting posters to educate other health professionals and students on this crucial topic. Our collaboration with Temple APhA was a success. APhA-ASP’s Midyear Regional Meeting for Region 2, which took place in Pittsburgh, gave some of our members the opportunity to talk about current issues in the field of pharmacy with pharmacists and students from the surrounding states. Finally, we are looking to create a blood pressure screening event within the next few months, possibly collaborating with other professional schools. Stay tuned!
landscape and the opioid epidemic. We enjoyed having Senator Casey speak with our students about various healthcare concerns! The Nesbitt School of Pharmacy collectively gave back to our WilkesBarre community this Christmas through donations of various clothing and hygienic items to the Back Pack Project. As a pharmacy school, we were able to successfully donate 250 back packs filled with these items which were then provided to homeless individuals during Christmas. This is a great program that our pharmacy students are proud to participate in each year. In December, we held our own OTC competition to determine the members who would represent our chapter at Mid-Year. Members of our chapter came out and supported our team during the Self-Care championship. We are proud of all of our members who participated in the OTC competition and at the SelfCare championship!
Wilkes University Nesbitt School of Pharmacy Contributed by: Kara Cooper, Communication Ambassador American Pharmacist’s Month was a success at Wilkes University as the Wilkes Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association collaborated with the American Pharmacist Association to welcome Senator Casey to our campus for a round table event. Both pharmacy and nursing students had the opportunity to attend the event to directly speak with Senator Casey regarding the changing healthcare www.papharmacists.com 13
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Member News Value Drug member receives Pittsburgh University School of Pharmacy Distinguished Alumni Award Each year, Pitt Pharmacy partners with the Alumni Society Board to recognize one or more alumni as “Distinguished Alumni”. William D. Thompson III, RPh, President of Thompson Pharmacy in and Value Drug Company member, received this distinguished Alumni Award in November 2017.
R.J Hedges & Associates Named 2017 Torch Award for Ethics R.J. Hedges & Associates of New Florence, PA and one of PPA’s annual corporate sponsors has been selected by an independent panel of judges from Duquesne University for the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Awards for Ethics. The annual Torch Awards for Ethics program is open to all for-profit companies (BBB accredited and non-accredited) that are located in the 28 county service area of Western Pennsylvania and meet the guidelines. Companies are evaluated against criteria that includes; leadership commitment to ethical practices, communication of ethical practices, leadership practices to unify the organization and organizational commitment to performance management practices, ethical human resource practices and the community. This year’s winners of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA’s Torch Awards for Ethics are now eligible for entry in the BBB International Torch Award for Ethics.
Condolences PPA extends sympathy to Past President, Coleen Kayden and her family including PPA member P.J. Ortman on the passing of her father, Werner Ortman, RPh. PPA also offers condolences to Past President Scott Himler on the passing of his mother.
Affiliated Member News ACPA Update Happy New Year from the Allegheny County Pharmacists Association! We hope everyone had a happy and healthy holiday season — filled with family, friends, and delicious food! Our programming since November has included an edu cational dinner on diabetes management and a networking event for all pharmacists in the area. More great programming is in the works for early 2018, including a presentation on pharmacogenomics and the role of the pharmacist at Duquesne’s campus in early February. Stay up to date with our emails and on the PPA website for all of our events. We are also well underway on an advocacy push in the area. Our mission is to be the voice of pharmacy in the
greater Pittsburgh area. To that end, we are working with the media, meeting with legislators and decision-makers, and promoting the value of pharmacists to the public. Please consider joining our efforts through our Government Relations and Advocacy Committee. Lastly, we are launching fundraisers throughout the new year to raise money to support our scholarship fund. Every year, ACPA awards scholarships to one student from both Duquesne and Pitt. In order to keep investing in the next generation of talent — as we have in the past — please join us at any of our upcoming fundraisers. We look forward to seeing you all at our upcoming events! Continued on page 17
www.papharmacists.com 15
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Affiliated Member News BucksMont Update BMPA held its third informational dinner meeting of 2017 at the Spring House Tavern on October 19th . The meeting was sponsored by Amarin Pharma, Inc and featured Louis Tsarouhas, MD of Tsarouhas Family practice in Lawrenceville, NJ as the keynote speaker. Dr. Tsarouhas delivered a stimulating and highly informative lecture on the topic “Clinical Evaluation of Pure EPA,” His presentation style was exciting as he captivated and engaged the audience of about 25 BMPA members and guests for a good hour. Amarin host, Heather Shipkoski provided much useful educational material about the topic of interest (Icosapent ethyl, Vascepa®) including explanations of how insurance carriers are handling this relatively new product indicated as an adjunct to diet to reduce triglyceride levels in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.
continued
Potential CE programs and presenters were mentioned for future consideration. A sponsor has been identified for the next BMPA meeting (Daiichi-Sankyo) and the exact date and location in Bucks county will be announced when available.
Lehigh Valley Update Lehigh Valley Pharmacists Association had an eventful past month networking, eating, learning and having fun. We attended a hockey game where pharmacists and their families joined in on cheering the Lehigh Valley Phantoms! LVPA also hosted a “What’s Happening in Pharmacy” meeting at Hops at the Paddock, a restaurant in Allentown, where we discussed noteworthy updates impacting the health system, chain and community pharmacy. The speakers were Kristen Hartzell and Leslie Johnson, who did an incredible job highlighting current issues and potential solutions affecting pharmacy. The meeting was well represented by pharmacists in many different fields of pharmacy, including pharmacy technicians and students!!
After the dinner presentation, BMPA held an open business meeting that included numerous topics for discussion. It was decided that, moving forward, each We are finalizing a Paint Night for December 2017. If you’re sponsor’s meeting exclusion policy must be reviewed and on Facebook, LVPA is officially social, please “Like” our approved by BMPA officers/directors before agreeing to page: www.facebook.com/LehighValleyPharmacists have them sponsor a meeting. President Steve Pfeiffer Association for more updates on events and CE opportunities. mentioned how PPA has recently changed its logo and PPA has requested that all regional county affiliates modify their logos to be consistent with the PPA logo. All present agreed that this should be accomplished, and authorized sufficient funds for licensing and creating the new logo. Director John Barrett offered to begin the logo transformation process and will keep members updated with its progress. Although we did not have a legislative update at this meeting, Steve did point out recent changes in the PA State Board of Pharmacy CE requirements for the next license renewal period. Beginning with the 2018 renewal period, all pharmacists must now complete a minimum of 2 CE hours in any of the following three areas: pain management, the identification of addiction, or in the practices of prescribing or dispensing LVPA members in attendance for “What’s Happening in Pharmacy” discussion at Hops at of opioids. the Paddock.
www.papharmacists.com 17
Member Profile
Renee Motsko
Pharmacy Manager Redner’s Pharmacy #21, Schuylkill Haven, PA BS Pharmacy 1989 graduate of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science
What do you like most about being a pharmacist?
How long have you been a member of PPA?
I really enjoy the interaction with my patients. The ability to answer their questions, assist them with their health issues, and offer advice gives me a feeling of satisfaction. I also know most of my patients by name and have developed such a good relationship with them that they feel like family. The ability to make my patients smile when they are not feeling well is what I like most of all about being a pharmacist.
I have been a member of PPA since 2011 when I participated in legislative day.
What made you decide to join PPA? I joined PPA in order to keep up with what is happening in the pharmacy profession. I feel PPA is valuable as it gives our profession a voice in legislative matters as well as a network of resources and educational tools What does your dream job look like? My dream job would be located in a warmer region of the country with more opportunity for patient interaction and little to no dealings with insurance company help desks. This job would also have normal hours as well as being closed on holidays.
18 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
What is the most important advice you would give to a new practitioner? I would tell them to practice patience. Each day is going to have its challenges. Don’t get worked up. Getting your blood pressure up does no one any good. Listen to what the patient is trying to convey to you. Smile. Laugh. When it’s all said and done, you are there to help. What made you choose the profession of pharmacy? My father actually chose this profession for me to ensure that I would always have a steady income. Although pharmacy was not something I chose for myself, I continued to pursue it because I enjoy math and science. At the end of the day, I am glad I became a pharmacist. Not only does this profession allow me to help my patients on a daily basis with the knowledge I have gained, but I also have a multitude of different job opportunities and specialties open to me
Student Member Profiles getting to pharmacy school that I fell in love with the profession and realized thehuge impact on patient health that we can have as pharmacists! Why did you choose to become involved in PPA?
Amanda Boyer Girardville, PA
PharmD Candidate 2019 Wilkes University Nesbitt School of Pharmacy Why did you choose to study pharmacy? I chose to study pharmacy after I took a career aptitude test in high school that said it would be a good fit for me. Luckily, it didn’t take long after
Molly Walter Columbia, PA
PharmD Candidate 2018 Philadelphia College of Pharmacy Why did you choose to study pharmacy? I remember getting sick when I was around 5 years old. While I was waiting with my mom for my prescription at Sloan’s Pharmacy in Mountville, they kindly let me vomit in their restroom and then gave me a Halloween bracelet before I left. Ever
I chose to become involved in PPA because of how active our chapter at Wilkes University was in the organization. They continue to maintain amazing leadership opportunities and always represent our school well What other organizations (Pharmacy related and non) are you involved in at your school? I hold positions in our local chapters of ASHP and since then I thought that Sloan’s Pharmacy was a great company. So when I was looking for a job when I was 16, they happened to be hiring. I have been working for them ever since; the great work environment along with my wonderful co-workers really inspired me to study pharmacy. How did you hear about PPA? Colleen D’Amico was an advocate for PPA at our school, and she really made me aware of the organization and all of the opportunities and resources that they provide for pharmacists in PA. What has your favorite class been and why? One of my favorite classes at University of the Sciences is Pharmacy Book
Lambda Kappa Sigma. In addition to PPA, I’m also a member of several other pharmacy organizations on campus. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? My 5-year goal is to have completed at least a PGY1 residency program and be working in the field of women’s health and pediatrics. What has been your favorite rotation/ internship/pharmacy related job you’ve been on and why?
shadow and work with pharmacists in multiple areas, discovering which areas I had the most interest in. Being able to gain some clinical experience also has helped me learn concepts more easily in my P3 year. What the best advice you ever got? The best I’ve ever received was not to focus on what we as pharmacists are currently doing, but to focus on what we could be doing.
My favorite pharmacy related job has been my summer internship at Geisinger Medical Center. I had the experience to Club with Dr. Alice Lim. The class involves reading books from different perspectives that are involved in patient care. One novel was written by a patient with type 1 diabetes and she discussed some of the challenges she faced growing up as a patient with diabetes. Another novel was written by a caregiver of a patient with dementia, and another was written by a physician who had bipolar disorder. By reading these different perspectives it opened up a conversation about how we as future pharmacists can better understand what our patients are going through and how to connect with them more effectively when they are going through challenging times. It was really great to not only be exposed to these perspectives but
to talk with classmates about the books and see what they took away from reading these novels. Who has been the most influential teacher you’ve had and why? Dr. Daniel Hussar has been a really big influence on my personal and professional growth. He has really inspired me to be the best pharmacist that I can be and beyond that he has inspired me grow in my Christian faith as well. He is always willing to meet to talk about pharmacy or life challenges that come up, and he truly listens to the concerns you have. He is one of the most genuine people that I have ever met and I am so blessed to have had him as an adviser over the past four years.
www.papharmacists.com 19
Pharmacy Spotlight: Thomas Pharmacy The Pharmacy with Homeopathic Expertise By Mara Oesterle, Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate 2018, Philadelphia College of Pharmacy This article was contributed while Mara was on rotation with PPA. Thomas Pharmacy is an indepen dent community pharmacy located on the main street of Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania. Orwigsburg is a small town of about 7,000 located in Schuylkill County. Mr. Thomas, founder of Thomas Pharmacy, obtained his degree in pharmacy from Ohio Northern University following service in the Merchant Marines. Mr. Thomas came to Orwigsburg following a job offer from Schimpf’s Pharmacy, Orwigsburg’s local pharmacy established in the early 1900s. In the 1950s, Mr. Thomas bought Schimpf’s Pharmacy, renaming it Thomas Pharmacy, and moved it to its current location. Pharmacy manager Ted Spontak has been with Thomas Pharmacy for over twenty years. After graduating from the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy in 1983 he pursued chain community pharmacy and quickly realized this was not the setting for him. He then found his niche working in independent pharmacy and continued work in this setting in 1992 when he became pharmacy manager of Thomas Pharmacy. Thomas Pharmacy employs one full time pharmacist, three part time pharmacists, three pharmacy technicians, and three clerks. This small independent community pharmacy fills roughly 100–150 prescriptions per day in addition to offering other services including bubble packaging, weekly medication box packaging, blood pressure screenings, immunizations, and local delivery. In addition to these services Thomas pharmacy also offers limited nonsterile compounding services. In an effort to encompass the original art of pharmacy, Ted compounds medications for both human and 20 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
animal patients. This service offers many challenges, however, in terms of billing and the accommodation of new regulations. In addition to compounding, another unique service offered at Thomas Pharmacy is homeopathic and natural products.
Ted believes that one of the most satisfying things about indepen dent pharmacy is helping restore the health of his patients be it after an injury, surgery, or their overall health. Being a business in a small town also has its perks on its own. Patients and customers at Thomas Pharmacy span generations, allowing those in the pharmacy to watch them grow up and be an important part of their patient’s lives.
Another unique service provided by Thomas Pharmacy is homeopathic medicine. Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine involving the dilution of an extract to treat an ailment. Although the science in which it works is not well understood, this topic has piqued the interest of patients. Based on this interest and the small amount of locations offering this service in the surrounding area, Ted pursued online education and continuing education courses. In addition to these, Ted continually attends homeopathic medicine conferences to maintain current knowledge in this area. Through this training Ted is able to counsel patients on homeopathic medication use as well as recognize any interactions with a patient’s current medication. Managing an independent pharmacy, especially now is a difficult task. Ted believes the biggest challenge facing independent pharmacy is Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). PBMs provide little to no dispensing fees to pharmacies and low reimbursements rates on top of that. In addition to the challenge of reimbursement, some insurance contracts are becoming exclusive preventing patients from going to certain pharmacies, many of those being small independents. Despite these challenges, Thomas Pharmacy remains successful through the friendly atmosphere they provide, loyal customers, unique services, and excellent customer service. Ted also involves the pharmacy in the community through donations, supporting other local businesses, and supporting local fundraising efforts and events. There are a whole host of benefits when working in a small independent pharmacy. Ted believes that one of the most satisfying things about independent pharmacy
Ted finds it extremely rewarding to see staff grow from high school students working as clerks to potential pharmacy students and then to see them working as a pharmacist. is helping restore the health of his patients be it after an injury, surgery, or their overall health. In addition to that, the opportunity to educate patients and ensure they are taking their medications correctly is another experience of value in this practice setting. Being a business in a small town also has its perks on its own. Patients and customers at Thomas Pharmacy span generations, allowing those in the pharmacy to watch them grow up and be an important part of their patient’s lives. In addition to those in the community, Ted finds it extremely rewarding to see staff grow from high school students working as clerks to potential pharmacy students and then to see them working as a pharmacist. In addition, the opportunity to become part of a professional organization is also of great benefit to Thomas Pharmacy. Ted is a member of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association (PPA), National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), and the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Membership in these organizations allows him to be aware of issues, be it health related or legislative, provides him with a wealth of information pertinent to both business and pharmacy, and offers networking opportunities as well.
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www.papharmacists.com 21
Legislative Profile: Tim Hennessey What are the key issues you would like to see addressed this session? Reasonable, balanced budget (now accomplished) and a complete update of Older Adult Professional Services Act.
Tell our members a little about your background and why you are a legislator? I am an attorney who practiced criminal defense for 20 years while also representing my township as its solicitor for 15 years. I use legal training and experience each day to try to help people and make lives better.
How do you see pharmacy and its role in health care evolving in the in the future? Tim Hennessey R-26
Pharmacy is completely intermingled with the public health, and that is especially true of our elderly population and their medical needs. That is why our Aging Committee has tried so hard to advocate for our pharmacists as the Common wealth develops state policies which affect the pharmaceutical community.
Advice for pharmacists about the political process? Keep up your active advocacy to educate legislators about the benefits that your association and the pharmaceutical community in general bring to our society.
What do you do for relaxation or enjoyment? I enjoy dinners out with friends, and occasionally attending local theatre productions. Full disclosure; our youngest daughter is very active in area stage companies, which makes this avocation an especially personal and rewarding one.
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Legislative Profile: Mike Tobash What are the key issues you would like to see addressed this session? The overall issue I would like to see addressed is economic growth in our state. In addition to this, there are three main issues I would like to see addressed. The first issue being to connect our education system to fill jobs. The second issue would be to lower the welfare cushion in the state. The third would be to make regulatory changes that would allow commerce and education to occur more easily.
Tell our members a little about your background and why you are a legislator? Before becoming a legislator I worked in the private sector in financial services and insurance. Since then, I have been elected 4 times with the continued belief that I can better our region and state both economically and culturally to ultimately enhance the future of the commonwealth.
Mike Tobash R-125
How do you see pharmacy and its role in health care evolving in the in the future? Health care has changed so much over the past few years. Society is becoming more convenience-oriented, something that pharmacy can offer to the community. Pharmacy is also able to fill the demand for healthcare and healthful living which is growing within our community. In addition to these roles, pharmacy is also able to provide healthcare when faced with chronic diseases.
Advice for pharmacists about the political process? It is important to understand that the process is often the result of outrage and that there are opposing views. The process is slower moving than most people with concerns would like for it to be. However, it is this way so that public debate can occur so that the changes made affect most citizens fairly. It is also very important to become engaged in the political process.
What do you do for relaxation or enjoyment? In my spare time I enjoy hunting, fishing, and spending time with my family.
www.papharmacists.com 23
The Final Report: Electronic Cigarettes The Perceptions of Pharmacists and Physicians By Alana M. Grabigel, Pharm.D. Candidate 2016 Duquesne University; Dominick DiLucente, Pharm.D. Candidate 2017 Duquesne University; with Jamie L. McConaha, PharmD, CGP, BCACP Duquesne University This study and report was made possible in part through a grant provided by the PPA Educational Foundation grant in 2016. This report was not submitted through the peer review process and is presented as a report only. The full report may be found under the Foundation Section – Programs – Grant Program – 2016. http://www.papharmacists.com/?page=FGrantHistory This proactive assessment highlights the upward trend in electronic cigarette use, and enhances patient care by presenting the topic in a forum that provides pharmacists and physicians the opportunity to become more familiar with the products when counseling patients. This study assesses physician’s and pharmacist’s knowledge of e-cigarette products (including perceived safety and its place in therapy as a smoking cessation aid), level of comfort with counseling patients on e-cigarettes, and the collection of e-cigarette usage as a marker of tobacco status. Introduction: Electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, are electronic nicotine delivery systems that have been increasing in popularity in recent years. While many manufacturers of e-cigarettes advertise their product as a smoking cessation aid, there is insufficient evidence to support this claim. The long-term health outcomes associated with e-cigarette use remain unknown.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate pharmacists’ and physicians’ perception and knowledge of e-cigarettes, including comfort level in counseling patients on these products. The study also assessed if, and to what extent, patient e-cigarette usage is collected by these healthcare professionals as a marker of tobacco use status. Study Design: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to two focused groups: pharmacists and physicians. Survey responses were analyzed utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics, as appropriate. Methods: Data was collected via survey methodology. Pharmacists practicing in the community pharmacy setting and physicians practicing in family medicine were the targeted subjects. The timeframe for survey distribution was set at a period of 3 months or until a total of 200 surveys were completed (100 surveys from each group). Results: Based on the results collected, it appears that pharmacists and physicians would benefit from further information on e-cigarettes. Most pharmacists and physicians reported not feeling fully confident on counseling patients about e-cigarettes. Mixed results were gathered on whether participants believe e-cigarettes may be used as an effective smoking cessation tool. Conclusion: Due to the increasing popularity of e-cigarettes, pharmacists and physicians will be called upon to serve as care providers and informational resources to patients who are e-cigarette users. This survey promoted a better understanding of current opinions among pharmacists and physicians on e-cigarette products and provided a consensus that further steps should be taken to increase product training and information dissemination. Please read the full report online at: http://www.papharmacists.com/?page=F GrantHistory.
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Call for Awards Nominations PPA’s Awards Committee is seeking nominations for several prestigious association awards that are presented annually during the Association’s Annual Conference which will be held October 18–21, 2018 at Double Tree Resort in Lancaster. Many pharmacists currently practicing in Pennsylvania are excellent candidates for these awards; individuals whose contributions have made pharmacy a better profession for all of us. Below is a list of the awards and criteria for selection of the award recipient for each.
CRITERIA FOR ALL AWARDS A nominee must be a current member of PPA to be considered. For all awards except those noted with an *, nominees must be a licensed Pennsylvania pharmacist. Nominations are considered for one year only. Please note that nominations are no longer held on file and eligible for consideration for three years. Bowl of Hygeia Award
George S. Maggio Memorial Award
Sponsored by the American Pharmacists Association Foundation and the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) with support from Boehringer Ingelheim
Presented to the pharmacist who has contributed the most to pharmacy in Pennsylvania through his/her work in legislative activities and advocacy in conjunction with and for PPA.
Granted to recognize and honor a Pennsylvania pharmacist who has demonstrated sustained commitment to community service, apart from his/her specific identification as a pharmacist, which reflects well on the profession of pharmacy. Specific Award Eligibility: • Nominee must not be currently serving or have served in the last two (2) years as a member of PPA awards committee, an elected PPA officer or a paid employee of PPA • Nominee must be living; awards are not presented posthumously • Nominee must not be a past recipient of the award PPA Pharmacist of the Year Award Presented to a pharmacist who has demonstrated dedication to the profession of pharmacy, contributed time and effort to the various professional organizations, furthered the profession of pharmacy through community service and embodied those qualities of attitude and leadership which exemplified the profession. Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Companies “Distinguished Young Pharmacist” Award Recognizes new pharmacists for their dedication to and participation in PPA, commitment to the practice of pharmacy, and involvement in community activities. Minimum selection criteria: • Licensed to practice for nine years or less. • Has distinguished themselves in the field of pharmacy practice.
NASPA Excellence in Innovation Award Sponsored by Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. Recognizes a pharmacist who is involved in an innovative pharmacy practice resulting in improved patient care. The nomination must include a description of the innovative pharmacy practice which would qualify the recipient for this award. Preceptor of the Year This award has a separate nomination form for students to use. Nominees must be PPA members, must be a preceptor for a Pennsylvania pharmacy practice site, and must be nominated by a PPA Student Member. George H. Searight Community Service Award* Presented to an individual who has shown outstanding devotion and service to PPA, and his/her own county or local association, and for outstanding community service which has enhanced the image of the profession of pharmacy within his/her community. This award may be presented to a pharmacist or a non-pharmacist. Pharmacy Technician of the Year* Presented to an individual who has at least 2 years of experience working as a pharmacy technician in any pharmacy setting, who has demonstrated a professional attitude at their place of employment, and who has shown leadership in the training of their technicians in their practice settings.
Cardinal Health Generation Rx Champions Award Sponsored by the Cardinal Health Foundation This award honors a pharmacist who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to raising awareness of the dangers of prescription drug abuse among the general public and among the pharmacy community. The award is also intended to encourage educational prevention efforts aimed at patients, youth, and other members of the community. J. Allen Duffield Pharmaceutical Industry Award* Presented to an individual who is associated with the pharmaceutical industry or other pharmacy associated/related business or service, who has contributed time, effort, commitment, and supported and participated in the activities and programs of PPA and who has, through his/her affiliation with the company and industry he/she represents, contributed to the betterment of the profession of pharmacy. Pauline Montgomery Leadership Award Sponsored by Value Drug Company The Pauline Montgomery Leadership Award, sponsored by Value Drug Company, is presented annually to a female independent owner, manager, or employee of an independent pharmacy who is part of Value Drug Company and who demonstrates leadership in all of the following areas: pharmacy, politics/advocacy, and community. Value Drug Company provides a $1,000 check to the recipient.
• Participated in national pharmacy association(s), professional programs, PPA activities and/or community service. Nominate a deserving individual for an award and recognize them for all they do for the pharmacy profession! Find the nomination form at http://www.papharmacists.com/Awards
www.papharmacists.com 27
FRIDAY, JANUARY 26
Substance Abuse CE Track (Program titles subject to change)
• PPA Educational Foundation Board of Directors Meeting • Health Policy Committee Meeting
• New Practitioner Reception
• Landscape of Addiction, Motivational Interviewing and practice SBIRT, Standardized Patient Interviews
• Board of Directors Social
• Medication Assisted Treatment 1.0
• Conference Kick-Off Celebration & Welcome Reception
• The Ins & Outs of Employing MAT
Meals & Networking • Lunch Buffet
DSME CE Track • Keep Calm and Carry On Through the AADE DSME Accreditation • Don’t Stress, “DRESS” for Success! How to Survive a DSME Program Audit • Keep Calm and Collaborate On: Effectively Collaborating With Other Health Care Professionals • Hitting the Sweet Spot: Motivational Interviewing with Diabetes Patients
28 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
• New Practitioner Forum • Local County Association Forum Student Programming • APhA Career Pathways Workshop
Other Professional Development
• OTC Competition
• CE: Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network Patient Care Training
For a complete listing of the Schedule of Events and to register, please visit www.papharmacists.com/ MidYear2018
• Welcome Orientation • CE: Patient Self-Care and Pharmacy 2018 Meetings • Training Outpatient Pharmacists Techniques In Evidence Based Research (TOP TIER) • Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network (PPCN) Board of Directors Meeting
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 Meals & Networking • Breakfast Buffet & Bylaws Vote • Lunch Buffet & Pandemic Vaccinations Update • PPA’s 140th Birthday Bash
Health System Track
• CE: Medication Errors (title TBD)
• CE: Quieting Down Opioid Prescribing
• CE: Keep Calm and Focus on the Evidence for the Management of Diabetes
• CE: Improving Medication Reconciliation Processes: Transitions of Care for the Pharmacy Technician and Pharmacist • CE: “Living on a Prayer”: A Health System Response to the Opioid Epidemic • Health System Forum Community/Independent Tracks • CE: Ready for a Trip Around the World: Travel Vaccines in the Community Pharmacy
• CE: Know Pain, Know Gain Pharmacy Patient Counseling Competition 2018 • CE: Keep Calm and Care On (Poster Presentations) Student Programming • Preventing Elder Financial Fraud: It Takes a Village • Networking Workshop • Specialty Pharmacy
SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Meals & Networking • The Foundation’s Sunnyside Up Breakfast Professional Development • CE: 2018 Overview of Emerging Practices and Opportunities from PPA’s Educational Foundation Grant Research • CE: Pharmaceutical Poetry 2018: Recent Updates in Clinical Research for the Practicing Pharmacist
• Third Party Insurances
• CE: Guardians of the Opioid Galaxy: Awesome Mix 1
• CE: Tips, Tricks, and Tools for Successfully Implementing Patient Care Into Your Pharmacy
• Keys to Understanding Controlled Substance Regulations
• CE: Developing Your Antipsychotic Injectable Service
• CE: Pharmacy Ownership Transition: What The Buyer & Seller Need To Know
• Know Pain, Know Gain Competition • Poster Presentations
• CE: Hit Me With Your Best Shot: Update on Immunizations
• Legislative Forum • Independent Owners Forum
Meetings • PPCN School Faculty Meeting • CPESN/PPCN Forum
Other Professional Development • CE: Preventing Elder Financial Fraud: It Takes a Village
Meetings • Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Board of Directors Meeting Student Programming Student Advisory Board Meeting
• CE: Keeping Abreast of the Chaos with Lipid Guidelines
www.papharmacists.com 29
Meet the 2018 PPA Educational Foundation Board of Directors Elections for the 2018 Educational Foundation Board of Directors were held in the fall of 2017, and new Officers and Directors will assume their position on January 1, 2018. Officers and Directors will be formally installed during the Sunnyside Up Breakfast on Saturday, January 27 at the 2018 Mid-Year Conference. OFFICERS
President: Maria Osborne, PharmD, BCACP, CDE
Vice President: Sarah Krahe Dombrowski, PharmD, BCACP
Secretary/Treasurer: Patricia Epple, CAE
Immediate Past President: Nishaminy Kasbekar, BS, PharmD, FASHP STUDENT DIRECTOR
DIRECTORS
Janet Astle, BS, EdD
Kimberly Ference, PharmD
Ed Bechtel, RPh
Jenna Carmichael, Stephanie Smith PharmD, BCOP Cooney, PharmD
AJ Greco, PharmD Michele Hebda, PharmD, TTS
Kyle McCormick, PharmD
John DeJames, RPh
Sophia Cothel, PharmD Candidate 2019
PPA would also like to thank the 2017 Officers and Directors for their hard work and dedication over the past year! Specifically the following who transitioning off their service on the Board to Ambassadors: • Jon Ference, • PJ Ortman, • Karla Moschella, and • Julie Gerhart-Rothholz.
Jerome Musheno, RPh
Melissa Sherer Krause, PharmD
30 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
Megan Weigand, RPh
Nick Wytiaz, PharmD
1899–1919 Our Records Go Dark! We pick up our look at the past with the time period of 1899- 1919, as PPA is beginning its third decade of existence. Unfortunately, for the next twenty year segment of PPA’s history, we only have proceedings from two Annual meetings to look over. We have only a little information when it comes to historical records. But here is what we know….and as you will see some things stay the same… By 1898, 48 more colleges of pharmacy were established in the country joining the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. By the end of the 19th century, 14 state universities had added pharmacy programs which placed pharmacy on the university level in the U.S. The curriculum of early colleges was scant; lectures on materia medica, botany, chemistry, and practical pharmacy, with a few demonstrations was the extent. The Philadelphia College of Pharmacy
PRESIDENTS DURING THIS PERIOD: Charles N. Boyd . . . . . . . . . 1899-1900 Samuel K. Hammond . . . 1900-1901 William L. Cliffe . . . . . . . . . 1901-1902 Charles L. Hay . . . . . . . . . . . 1902-1903 William O. Frailey . . . . . . . 1903-1904 Julius A. Koch . . . . . . . . . . . 1904-1905 Daniel J. Thomas . . . . . . . . 1905-1906 George A. Gorgas . . . . . . . 1906-1907 Clement B. Lowe . . . . . . . . 1907-1908 Lucius L. Walton . . . . . . . . 1908-1909 John C. Wallace . . . . . . . . . 1909-1910 Charles H. LaWall . . . . . . . 1910-1911 Joseph L. Lemberger . . . 1911-1912 Louis Saalbach . . . . . . . . . . 1912-1913 Richard H. Lackey . . . . . . . 1913-1914 Edgar F. Heffner, Sr. . . . . . 1914-1915 Theodore Campbell . . . . 1915-1916 Adolph Schmidt . . . . . . . . 1916-1917 W. H. Knoepfel . . . . . . . . . . 1917-1918 Charles R. Rhodes . . . . . . 1918-1919
was offering its lecture series on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings and it usually took two years. The result was a Ph.G. degree. The following year, the 22nd Annual meeting was held at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, where great sadness was expressed over a train accident at Exeter in which two druggists died and the current President Kline and Professor Remington were also passengers. At that time membership reached 342 and the treasury balance was a whopping $296.86. The 1900 Convention in Ebensburg and the 1901 Convention in Harveys Lake featured members from several neighboring pharmaceutical associa tions, Delaware, New Jersey and New York. Throughout this time, PPA’s center was considered Philadelphia and there was a strong bond between the organization and the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy. In 1904 in Latrobe, the first docu mented Banana Split was created by apprentice pharmacist David Strickler - sold at the former Tassell Pharmacy. Bananas became widely available to Americans in the late 1800s. In 1905, a pharmacy law was enacted requiring graduation from a pharmacy college before registering as a pharmacist in Pennsylvania. At the Annual meeting in 1906, there was considerable discussion around the impact of this law on assistants and those wishing to become pharmacists. (Sound familiar?)
32 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
IMPORTANT EVENTS 1902: First Rose Bowl played 1903: Harley Davidson and Ford Motor Company founded First World Series played 1906: San Francisco Earthquake 1912: Titanic Sinks 1914: Mothers Day Established Clayton Antitrust Act becomes law 1917: US enters World War I Dr. Clement Lowe President 1907–1908 The Traveling Men’s Auxiliary was formed in 1908 and accumulated 36 members quickly. By 1908, pharmacist membership had tripled to 1,000 and by 1910, the rolls exceeded 1000. In 1911, PPA denounced the underhanded and unfair methods which were used by the American Protective Association in attacking Dr. Wiley who fearlessly fought for honest standards in food and drugs. The Paxinosa Inn near Easton, site of the 1908 Convention
Installation Gavel Amazingly, PPA is still using the antique gavel that was first presented in 1909 to Lucius L. Walton, the 30th President, who donated it permanently to PPA. Each year, we annually use it during our installation of our new President. The 1912 convention noted the many changes taking place in that much of the former practical work of the former drug store – the drug mill, the mortar and pestle, the percolator, and the pill machine, was being absorbed by manufacturers of pharmaceutical preparations. The Traveling Mens Auxiliary reached 175 by 1913 and that year there was great excitement over the Anti-Narcotic Bill. A more stringent version was proposed which would require physicians to register the amounts of narcotic drugs dispensed to a patient. (Sound familiar?) Due to accidental deaths from Bichloride of Mercury, a law was proposed requiring all manufacturers to make a tablet of same size, shape, color and with uniform labeling. The 1918 Annual meeting was during WWI. PPA is actually in possession of the full proceedings from the 1919 Annual Conference, which returned to the Buena Vista Hotel in Franklin County. At the meeting, the delegates endorsed the metric system as the standard measure in English speaking countries and communicated that to President Wilson and the British Prime Minister. The delegates also endorsed a “Buy At Home” movement coordinated by the Butterick Publishing Company which would endorse the actions to exclude mail order advertisements from its publications. They also debated the creation of a pharmaceutical corps of the Army. In these proceedings, it is clear they did have at least a brief memorial service for those pharmacists who passed away in years previous, not the unlike our current Rite of Roses. Annual dues were $2.00 at that time.
ANNUAL MEETINGS 1899 Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, Philadelphia 1900 Maple Park Springs Hotel, Ebensburg 1901 Hotel Onenota, Harvey’s Lake 1902 Buena Vista Springs Hotel, Franklin County 1903 Lakeside, Eagles Mere 1904 Riverside Inn, Cambridge Springs 1905 Bedford Springs Hotel, Bedford 1906 Glen Summit Springs Hotel 1907 Bedford Springs Hotel, Bedford 1908 Paxinosa Inn, Easton 1909 Bedford Springs Hotel, Bedford 1910 Buena Vista Springs Hotel, Franklin County 1911
Bedford Springs Hotel, Bedford
1912
Buena Vista Springs Hotel, Franklin County
1913
Forest Park Hotel, Forest Park (Poconos)
1914
Buena Vista Springs Hotel, Franklin County
1915
Forest Park Hotel, Forest Park (Poconos)
1916
Hotel Berkshire, Reading
1917
Hotel Schenley, Pittsburgh
1918
Hotel Sterling, Wilkes Barre
1919
Buena Vista Springs Hotel, Franklin County
More to come in our next issue with the start of the roaring 20’s!
Charles R. Rhodes President 1918–1919 By the end of this period, the Association had not only grown but adopted its first emblem.
Room here for a 3.625 x 3.625 ad
PPA GIVES ME ...
Community Collaboration www.papharmacists.com 33
Our Presidents Reminisce Throughout the year ahead, we will also be including special memories of our current living past presidents and some of their memorable group photos from Conferences. They will not necessarily be presented in chronological order. David M. King, RPh. 1976–1977 BI had the distinct honor and privilege to serve as the 99th President of what was then known as the Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Association from July 1976 to 1977. Highlights of my term: 1. Development and implementation of PharmPAC with special thanks to my good friend Charles D. Thomas who served as chairman and did a remarkable job of getting it off the ground. 2. PPA was involved in H.B. 473, “The Generic Drug Bill”. The initial proposed bill was a mess, but there were legislators who came to us for assistance and came up with a workable law. This was one of the first times we were being recognized as professionals in the healthcare field and it was a major breakthrough for pharmacy in Pennsylvania. 3. Along with Executive Director Stan Singer, myself and many others, we arranged a number of meetings with the legislature where we proposed the use of Lottery funds be used to assist the elderly with prescription drugs in the program ultimately known as the PACE Program. It took nearly five years to get it passed and implemented. This reaffirmed the old adage that; “the wheels of government grind slow, but the wheels of government grind fine”. 4. A new statewide program known as Health System Agencies or HSA was developed by the Dept. of Health, Education, and Welfare. It was a scheme that involved both consumers and providers in the planning of health care needs for the future. By HEW regulation, consumers must be in the majority of all boards from county, sub-region, region and the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC). It came to my attention that Pharmacy 34 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
was not included as a provider, therefore I got involved in my region and brought it to the attention of pharmacists throughout the Commonwealth and pushed for their involvement. My personal goal was to develop a plan to increase the use of “functional patient profile systems” in dispensing pharmacies that should result in the reduction of unnecessary hospitalizations due to drug allergies, patient non-compliance and drug interactions thereby reducing health care costs. Pharmacy computer systems were just in their infancy and only a few pharmacies were utilizing profile systems. 5. My biggest disappointment was seeing the beginning of the demise of independent community pharmacies due to the inequity of Third Party Programs. Only a few have survived. I officially retired in 2003 and enjoy traveling with my beautiful wife Pat. While she enjoys weeding her flower gardens, I still play competitive golf and enjoy making divots and destroying beautiful lush fairways. I did achieve a milestone by shooting my age (67) in 2008. I did it again last November, shooting (75) in a tournament at Disney Magnolia in Orlando, FL. THE OLD MAN STILL HAS IT! I am truly grateful to everyone who pitched in and made my year so much easier and memorable and especially to The Erie County Association for hosting my JULYFEST 77 convention at the Erie Hilton. Sherri Lee, RPh. 2009–2010 I think the most memorable things from my PPA Presidency in 2009-2010 were all the wonderful pharmacy people across the state and the country with which I got to meet and work. I was able to travel to San Antonio for APhA and New Orleans for NCPA, both places I don’t know that I would
have ever had the opportunity to visit otherwise, and represent our state and our organization. It was very educational for me as a hospital pharmacist to attend NCPA and hear from all the community pharmacists and owners about their struggles and frustrations but also their triumphs and innovations. And I will never forget all the great people on the PPA Board of Directors during my presidency, many of whom I still keep in touch with regularly. The Pennsylvania Pharmacists Care Network was just in its early planning stages but I would like to think our directors laid the groundwork for the PPCN’s future. Joseph P. Lech, RPh. 1993–1994 PPA was, is, and will always be, essential to the careers of pharmacists — working diligently to ensure that our professional and economic interests are represented. As a recent grad and young pharmacist, I was inspired by Carmen DiCello, Pauline Montgomery, and Tom Olcese to open a pharmacy in rural northeast PA. They instilled in me the value and importance of Pharmacy Associations. I had available to me the experience of folks like Bill Greene, Ron Nighswander, and John Mariani on which to build. Thinking back and rereading some writings from that time I realize the topics are similar. I see that PPA’s responsibility is to the needs of its membership. Time has shed a brighter light on the importance of and the need for Associations. In 1993, we changed the name from Pennsylvania “Pharmaceutical” to “Pharmacists’” Association. We had discussions about Pharm.D entry level, conducted the first technician certification exam, discussed the role of pharmacists in healthcare reform – all issues that are present in today’s healthcare discussions. We
stood up as an Association against the Merck-Medco merger by disaffiliating with APhA, who, at that time, openly supported the merger. We now see the effects of that first merger. And we sued the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare for illegally reducing reimbursement and WON! As
pharmacists, we can’t sit by and allow regulatory and legislative actions to adversely affect our status and potential as healthcare professionals. Since its foundation, PPA was there to represent Pharmacy. That’s what mattered enough to me to become involved. That we have motivated
and dedicated leadership is key to Pharmacy’s future. I am happy to know the tradition of strong leadership can continue. For those Past Presidents who have not yet submitted their thoughts, there is still time!
Join Us As We Celebrate
— a rich history, our commitment to pharmacists, and a bright future!
Past Presidents Attending 2017 Annual Conference: Seated, left to right: Eric Pusey, RPh; Coleen Kayden, RPh; Donna Hazel, RPh; Michele Musheno, RPh; Alan Vogenberg, RPh. Standing, left to right: Eric Esterbrook RPh; Ed Bechtel, RPh; Scott Miskovsky, RPh; David Smith, RPh; Joe Lech, RPh; Bruce Sigman, RPh; Rob Frankil, RPh.
PPA is celebrating throughout 2018! Our first celebration is a more casual birthday bash at the Mid Year Conference on Saturday, January 27, 2018. We will recognize those Past Presidents in attendance. We will follow-up with a more formal celebration and recognition during our Annual Conference in the fall.
PPA Announces a New Logo Design! As PPA celebrates its 140th anniversary in 2018, the Board of Directors decided it was time to give the organization a new and fresh look. We are excited to announce that beginning January 1, PPA will be utilizing a new family of logos. The PPA logo was designed to incorporate the many aspects of PPA. We stayed with the color green, historically pharmacy’s color, but in a fresh version. We also retained the image of a mortar and pestle, again a reference to the traditional illustration of pharmacists preparing medications for patients. We then introduced a depiction of a heart to symbolize the pharmacists’ caring nature and how the profession is changing to the provision of more patient care and that it is the combination of the care and medication which defines the profession. Further we saw PPA as the “heart” and center of Pennsylvania Pharmacy. Thus we proudly introduce our brand new, fresh look for PPA and our whole family of entities as we move forward for another 140 years plus years!
We modified our subsidiary charitable PPA Educational Foundation to indicate the connection between the two organizations, since the Foundation’s mission aligns with the patient care support aspect.
We then are providing our affiliated counties with an opportunity to adopt, if they desire, a connected logo, further providing the clear identity and connection, showing we are one big family for pharmacy in Pennsylvania.
Along with the others, PPA’s political arm also deserved a new look and it received one! We adopted a logo which matches nicely with the other logos but clearly through the red, white, and blue scheme marks a political identity and focus.
Finally, since we only created the PPCN logo about two years ago, we kept it. The PPCN logo also features a heart which shows a complementary relationship between the PPA and our subsidiary patient care operations. www.papharmacists.com 35
36 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
Call for Nominations—Nominations Being Accepted for PPA Officers and Members of the Board of Directors The following positions are available: President Elect and Vice President Regional Directors — Central, Northeast, and Southwest Practice Network Directors — Community — Chain, Community Independent/LTC, and Managed Care/ Government/Industry — Other Student Pharmacists — East and West Directors Help lead your profession and pharmacy forward! Officers PPA’s Nominating Committee is seeking nominations from our membership for the officer positions of President Elect and Vice President. This is a great opportunity to help lead the profession. Candidates for the office of President Elect and Vice President must be Active Pharmacist members of PPA. Job descriptions for officer positions and the Board may be found by clicking on the respective position on the PPA website, under About PPA, and selecting Leadership Team. Regional Directors PPA is also seeking pharmacists interested in serving as the regional director for their region. The position is a two-year term and individuals are eligible to serve two consecutive terms. The Director serves on the PPA Board of Directors and generally represents that region. PPA is comprised of five regions and this year the regions that are up for election are: Central, Northeast, and Southwest. To see what areas comprise a region – please go to the PPA website, then under About PPA, select Leadership Team. On that page, click on Regions. You can also find a job description for the Regional Director. Practice Network Directors The Nominating Committee also needs individuals willing to lead their practice setting through their Practice Setting Network. A Director is needed for each Practice Network
up for election this year. Terms are two years and individuals may serve two consecutive terms. The Director serves on the PPA Board of Directors. The following Practice Setting Networks are electing a Director this year: CommunityChain, Community Independent/ LTC, and Managed Care/ Giovernment/Industry/Other. Student Directors Student Directors, of which there are two, one from the Eastern schools (Jefferson, PCP, Temple, or Wilkes) and one from the Western schools (Duquesne, LECOM, Ohio Northern University or Pitt), elect every year for one year terms. Any individual member or group of members may nominate someone for consideration. However, prior to submitting a nomination, the individual’s consent must be secured. Individuals may also nominate themselves. All nominations are to be received at the PPA Office by Friday, March 9, 2018. Letters/faxes/emails of nomination should be sent to: Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association, 508 North Third Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101-1199, Attention: Nominating Committee or faxed to 717-236-1618. They may also be sent to the general PPA email to the committee’s attention, ppa@ papharmacists.com. Nominations may initially be a simple statement of interest. Candidates will then be requested to submit photos, additional information, and bios or CVs.
www.papharmacists.com 37
Pharmacists’ Perceptions and Baseline Knowledge Assessment of a Statewide Naloxone Standing Order Corresponding Author: Elizabeth J. Bunk, PharmD, Clinical Pharmacist, Duquesne University Pharmacy and Center for Pharmacy Care Authors: Suzanne K. Higginbotham, B.S., PharmD, BCACP, Director Duquesne University Pharmacy and Center for Pharmacy Care; Monica L. Skomo, BS, PharmD, BCACP, Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice Key Words: Ambulatory care, Substance abuse, patient safety, naloxone DISCLOSURES: Funding was awarded through the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Educational Foundation Grant Program. The above authors report no other conflicts of interest to disclose. This manuscript describes original work and is not under consideration by any other journal. All authors approved the manuscript and this submission. BACKGROUND: Pennsylvania implemented a naloxone standing order in 2015 allowing anyone to obtain naloxone from a community pharmacy without a prescription. Many pharmacists are unaware of the standing order and the resources available to them to help reduce opioid related fatalities. Barriers may be present that limit pharmacists’ support as few pharmacies dispense naloxone. The purpose of this study was to assess baseline knowledge and current perceptions of pharmacists about a statewide naloxone standing order and gauge if barriers hinder their participation. METHODS: A non-experimental descriptive exploratory study using survey methodology was conducted to determine baseline knowledge and current perceptions of Pennsylvania pharmacists. Surveys were sent to licensed pharmacists in Pennsylvania through the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association, pharmacy district managers in a variety of practice settings, and the Duquesne University School of Pharmacy email list servers.
38 Pennsylvania Pharmacist • Jan/Feb 2018
RESULTS: A total of 153 surveys were completed. Those that completed the survey included 55% community pharmacists in either chain or independent settings, 20% hospital pharmacists, 9% academia, and 16% classified as other. Sixty percent of pharmacists who completed the survey were female, with ages ranging from 23-85 years of age. Seventy two percent (n=113) of pharmacists do not feel they have been properly trained on how to educate patients about naloxone administration and 45% (n=69) of pharmacists were not aware of the standing order in Pennsylvania. This study found that 75% (n=114) of pharmacists were not able to identify which formulations could be administered under the standing order. Ninety two percent (n=141) of pharmacists agreed or felt neutrally that they would be more likely to participate in the standing order if they were properly educated. CONCLUSION: Most pharmacists agreed or felt neutrally that they would be more likely to participate in naloxone counseling when properly trained and educated. They also indicated minimal barriers for dispensing naloxone under the standing order. Overcoming training barrieris will enable pharmacists to have a substantial impact educating patients about naloxone and thus enhance access in the community. For the full article, please visit http://www.papharmacists. com/?page=Articles.
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