Vol 15 No. 2 Spring 2018
Spring 2018
Pharmacy Journal of New England Get Involved with the PJNE Redesign! Inside, page 10
Animal Patients: Rx and the Law Getting (Mentally) Ready to Retire: Financial Forum
Inside: 2018 New England Pharmacists Convention Save the Date
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Pharmacy Journal
Vol 15 No. 2 Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
of New England
Federal Budgets and the Opioid Crisis Dear Readers, With the spring season finally here, programming for the 2018 New England Pharmacists Convention, is starting to bloom. The regional conference is set for Thursday, September 13 and Friday, September 14 at Foxwoods Resort Casino, so mark your calendar for an action-packed, two-day event. As the opioid epidemic continues to plague our nation, our Associations agreed that offering a CE track on addiction and mental health during the convention would be a fitting theme. Among the topics planned for this track include medication-assisted therapy for opioid use disorder and treatment resistant depression. There has never been a more crucial time than now for pharmacists to play a lead role in this discussion, and we hope these presentations will be invaluable to everyone who attends the convention this year. Other CE programs will cover some hot topics in the pharmacy profession, including the new Shingles vaccine and updated treatment guidelines for the management of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. As always, the convention will feature a keynote speaker and a variety of student programming, as well as several certificate programs. As more details become finalized for the event, we will keep you posted. Sincerely,
Editors
Lindsay De Santis Margherita R. Giuliano, R.Ph., CAE
Design & Production Kathy Harvey-Ellis
The Pharmacy Journal of New England is owned and published by the Massachusetts Pharmacists Association and the Connecticut Pharmacists Association. Opinions expressed by those of the editorial staff and/or contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the publisher. Readers are invited to submit their comments and opinions for publication. Letters should be addressed to the Editor and must be signed with a return address. For rates and deadlines, contact the Journal at (860) 563-4619. Pharmacy Journal of New England 35 Cold Spring Road, Suite 121 Rocky Hill, CT 06067-3167 members@ctpharmacists.org
Submitting Articles to the Pharmacy Journal of New England™ The Pharmacy Journal of New England™ is the product of a partnership between the Connecticut Pharmacists Association and the Massachusetts Pharmacists Association. The Journal is a quarterly publication. All submitted articles are subject to peer review. In order to maintain confidentiality, authors’ names are removed during the review process. Article requirements must conform to the Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals (Ann Intern Med 1982;96 (1part1):766-71). We strongly encourage electronic submissions. PJNE does not assume any responsibility for statements made by authors.
Please submit manuscripts to: Lindsay De Santis Executive Vice President Massachusetts Pharmacists Association
Contents:
Margherita R. Giuliano, RPh Executive Vice President Connecticut Pharmacists Association
PJNE 35 Cold Spring Rd., Suite 121 Rocky Hill, CT 06067 or email to: lcapobianco@ctpharmacists.org
2 01US News 4 New England States 10 Feature: PJNE Redesign 12 Pharmacy Marketing Group: Rx and the Law, Financial Forum 14 From the Colleges
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U.S. News With New Compounding Standards Coming in 2019, Pharmacies Must Prepare Starting December 2019, the United States Pharmacopeia’s (USP’s) Chapter 800 Pharmaceutical Compounding—Sterile Preparations becomes effective. As a result, many pharmacies nationwide will need to upgrade their facilities before these new guidelines go into effect. Released in February 2016, USP 800 builds on earlier regulations set forth by USP 797, placing stringent new standards on hospitals for handling hazardous drugs. This may sound challenging, but with appropriate planning and a knowledgeable healthcare design team, health facilities managers can achieve compliance. https://www.bdcnetwork.com/blog/revamping-pharmacies-publicsafety-and-compliance
Shingrix Demand Outpaces Supply Having trouble stocking Shingrix lately? According to its list of current vaccine shortage and delays, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that providers can expect ordering limits and intermittent shipping delays of the new shingles vaccine through the end of June--regardless of whether they order the vaccine directly from the manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), or through wholesalers and distributors. However, GSK is working to make more doses available. Despite the supply glitches, the chief strategy officer at APhA says the recommendations for who should receive Shingrix remain the same. https://www.pharmacist.com/article/shingrix-demand-outpacessupply
New Report Shows Benefit of Flu Shot Even With Just 20% Effectiveness A new report published in the scientific journal PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States) shows the benefit of getting the flu vaccine-even if it is just 20 percent effective. According to the report, the flu vaccine can still reduce US doctor visits due to illness by an estimated 20 million in a single year, even with a 20 percent effectiveness. In addition, vaccination also can prevent thousands of hospitalizations and deaths, the study 2
authors estimated based on the average vaccination coverage rate nationwide. Between October 1, 2017 and April 21, 2018, the (CDC) reported a total of 160 flu-related deaths in children and 30,064 flu-related hospitalizations overall. The CDC also estimated a 36 percent effectiveness for the 2017-2018 flu vaccine as of February. https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/30/health/vaccine-low-effectivenessstudy/index.html
CDC Reports One Death from Multi-State E.coli Outbreak One person from California died related to the multi-state E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce, according to the CDC. As of April 27, the outbreak left a total of 121 people from 25 states ill, including CT and MA. The CDC reports that 51 percent) of people have been hospitalized, including 14 patients who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a type of kidney failure. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said most people reported eating a salad at a restaurant, and romaine lettuce was the only common ingredient identified among the salads eaten. The FDA is investigating the source of the chopped romaine lettuce that caused these illnesses. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-romaine/cdc-reportsone-death-from-e-coli-outbreak-linked-to-romaine-lettuce-idUSKBN1I32SS
Amid Talks with Humana, Walmart Plans to Remodel Pharmacy As competing retail giants continue entering the healthcare space, Walmart announced the remodeling of 500 stores across two dozen states that will include updated pharmacy areas equipped with private consultation rooms. Most of the Walmart remodels will be in Texas and Florida stores, according to the company. Walmart already operates walk-in care clinics that offer primary acute care services, wellness and preventative care, labs services and chronic illness treatment and management. This comes at a time when Walmart is talking about a possible merge with Humana, which did not end up merging with Aetna two years ago. There are few details of the Walmart-Humana merger, but the deal would allow Walmart to benefit from Humana’s specialization in Medicare Advantage plans. http://www.healthcarefinancenews.com/news/walmart-signals-continued-interest-healthcare-space-through-remodel-pharmacies
New England States Connecticut
President’s Message I am writing this note from my couch after watching a story on 60 Minutes about drug pricing. If you have not seen the piece, I encourage you to watch the 14-minute segment on CBSNews.com by Lesley Stahl. This story makes it clear there must be changes in how medications are priced Gillian Kuszekski, PharmD CPA President, 2017-18 for the good of our profession and our patients. The piece ends with a comment that unfair practices in drug pricing will continue to happen “until someone pushes back.” I firmly believe that as pharmacists, we MUST be that someone; this “push back” starts with involvement in our state associations. This past March, I had the privilege of traveling to Nashville for the APhA Annual Meeting. I enjoyed being exposed to all the wonderful work of so many of our colleagues. I was most impressed by the innovative research by so many pharmacists and student pharmacists, who demonstrated great enthusiasm for their profession. I left the meeting energized and with a renewed sense of pride for what
Making Our Voices Heard on Pharmacy Day On March 22, the Legislative Office Building in Hartford, CT was buzzing with a sea of white coats--and passion for the pharmacy profession. CPA was pleased to see a great turnout of engaged legislators who listened to those who made their voices heard during the 2018 Pharmacy Day at the Capitol event. Whether highlighting the concerns about automatic refills of prescription drugs or explaining the impact of rising drug costs on the consumer, Connecticut pharmacists and pharmacy students had a meaningful dialogue with legislators about several major bills that have come through this year. CPA would like to thank all its supporters for Pharmacy Day, including the Connecticut Society of Health-System
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
pharmacists are doing and what new things lie ahead of us. Days after returning from Nashville, I attended Pharmacy Day at the Capital in Hartford. This event gives pharmacists access to our legislators to discuss issues related to our profession. Again, I was proud to see another group of engaged pharmacists. Engagement with our legislators is another important part of this “push back.” As you may have read in a recent Fast Five, Marghie Giuliano, CPA’s CEO, has announced her plan to retire in the coming months from the CPA. I know all who read this can agree she will leave behind some very large shoes to fill. Marghie has worked tirelessly to bring progress to our profession and to strengthen our organization; I thank her for her dedication. I want to assure our members that the CPA Board of Directors is forming a talented Search Committee that will thoughtfully assist in the selection of our next CEO. We are committed to finding the right individual to carry on the important work of our Association. If you are not yet a member of your state association, the time to show your support is now. If you are a member of the Connecticut Pharmacists Association, I thank you for your support and call for your future engagement. All of us are needed to work together to “push back.” Sincerely, Gillian Kuszekski,, PharmD President, CPA
Pharmacists, the Connecticut Association of Community Pharmacies, and the CT Chapter, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. CPA also appreciates the continued support of the University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy and University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy. This event would not have been successful without CPA’s partners, members and legislators. 3
New England States
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Massachusetts President’s Message Greetings from the Massachusetts Pharmacists Association Board of Directors! We hope that you, your family, and your friends are
Paul Larochelle Jr., PharmD MPhA President, 2017-18
enjoying the warmer weather. It is once again my pleasure to provide you with some insight on how the MPhA is working to support those practicing pharmacy in the Commonwealth. This Spring, the Board of Directors has been hard at work to begin the execution of the output from our Strategy Session in February. One major initiative has been the addition of more networking opportunities for members through events, such as Dinner Programs sponsored by several pharmaceutical organizations. These programs have been well-attended, offer an opportunity to learn about particular products or disease states, and give attendees time to meet other members and learn more about their areas of practice. We are truly appreciative of the dinner program sponsors to date, and look forward to bringing more events like these in the future. I have written in the past on the Association’s mission to provide high-quality continuing education to members and non-members. We were incredibly excited by the turnout and the presentations at our Spring Conference in Norwood. We’d like to thank the great speakers for providing valuable content to the attendees and a special thank you to our Program Chair, Dr. Anita Young, for her outstanding contributions and leadership of the conference. With the success of this event, we look forward to sponsoring a Pharmacy Technician Training course in conjunction with Northeastern University this summer, as well as a compounding program this fall. And of course, we hope you’ll join us at the 2018 New England Pharmacists Convention this September at Foxwoods! Part of our way to facilitate change in the profession is 4
through our MPhA Foundation. The Foundation once again hosted a fundraiser at the Boston Winery, and was able to raise funds to continue the great work they do to support student initiatives and other items. Thank you to all who attended this fantastic event! Communication is a critical element of our strategy to build better relationships with members. We recently launched our Instagram account for the Association, and have been able to add hundreds of followers in a short time. Consider following @masspharmacists to get updates from us and learn more about where we are. Our team continues to look to other ways to connect with membership, and we invite you to let us know how we can best serve your needs. While the Association has had an internet presence for years, we recently have made significant updates and upgrades to our website and its member portal. This new site allows better communication, a cleaner design, and is formatted for desktop, tablet, and mobile devices. We are truly appreciative of our EVP Lindsay De Santis’ efforts on this initiative. MPhA continues to work to advocate for the profession in legislative activities, and we continue to work towards health care provider status and with legislators to develop laws to protect our pharmacists from unfair pricing practices. As always, we encourage you to be involved in these discussions and efforts. Please consider reaching out to your representatives to discuss the importance of these bills for the profession, and share personal stories that show the impact that change can make on our service to patients! As I reflect on my experience as President of the Association, and the fact that my term is more than halfway complete, I continue to be humbled by the honor it is to serve and represent each of you. We are working diligently to increase the collaboration between pharmacy associations in our Commonwealth, and we were able to host a highly successful session with the Mass. chapter of ASCP this Spring. If we truly want to elevate the profession to better serve our patients, it is critical that we begin to work together to align on activities and efforts. I am encouraged by our discussions to date, and the future these collaborations can lead to for our profession. Thank you for your support of MPhA! With warm regards, Paul
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Rhode Island
Thank you to each of you that took the time and effort to showcase your skills at our annual Face of Pharmacy Event! We wouldn’t be able to have an impactful event without you!
I was recently asked by a layperson to explain what a pharmacist versus pharmacy technician is. At first, I was caught off-guard, but then it really made me think. This was an honest question from a member of the public. For the past couple of years, we have been asking our federal legislators to recognize
When I started practicing pharmacy 23 years ago, I would never have believed that pharmacists would be giving immunizations as part of their everyday practice, impacting patient care via collaborative practice agreements, or some of the other exciting things that pharmacists across the country are doing: point of care testing, dispensing/prescribing life-saving naloxone, or prescribing oral contraceptives. These are all patient care activities that are the direct result of advocacy efforts. We need to educate our legislators on what we are capable of, and how allowing pharmacists to practice at the top of their license and training can increase our patients’ access to this type of care.
President’s Message
Lucrezia Finegan, PharmD RIPA President, 2017-18
pharmacists as healthcare providers. Yet, our public, our patients, still don’t have a good understanding of what pharmacists are and what we’re capable of. So, how do we correct that? How do we educate the public and our legislators about how pharmacists are the medication experts on the patient’s healthcare team? It’s time for pharmacists, students, friends of pharmacy – to step up and be heard. We need to reach out to our legislators, the decision-makers, and let them know that we are an important part of the patient’s healthcare and need to be recognized as such.
Our legislative team has been busy keeping track of the various bills being considered right now that will potentially impact pharmacists and how we service our patients. Please consider getting involved and joining us at an upcoming event, or volunteering on one of our various teams. Your efforts make a difference!
Lucrezia Finegan, RPh, MBA
President, Rhode Island Pharmacists Association, 2017-18 There are a lot of different ways for pharmacists to get involved and have a say in how our profession fits in to the healthcare landscape. The most direct and most impactful way is to reach out to our legislators. Our legislators want to hear what we, their constituency, think and how legislation impacts us personally. Don’t hesitate to call their office, or write a letter letting them know what your thoughts are and how potential legislation under consideration affects you and your practice. Make it personal – tell them YOUR story. You can make an appointment to meet with them face-to-face in their offices or – better yet – invite your legislator to visit you at your practice site. Then they can see first-hand what kind of services you are providing to your patients every day and how you personally impact your patients. 5
New England States
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New Hampshire Legislative Update prepared by Elizabeth C. Sargent Sheehan Phinney Capitol Group
Sponsored by Senator Martha Fuller Clark, this bill establishes a procedure for patients or their authorized representatives to pick up a prescription for a schedule II-IV controlled drug at a pharmacy.
It has been a busy session for pharmacy legislation here in the Granite State.
Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. Referred to House
Compounding of Drugs Relative to Compounding of Drugs Sponsored by Senator Sanborn, this bill amends the definition of compounding for the purposes of the law regulating pharmacists and pharmacies. An amendment was introduced by Anthem and others who expressed concerns about the NH Board of Pharmacy’s position on sterile compounding, and they have requested statutory changes to the definition of compounding. The main concerns expressed by certain healthcare providers and insurers included the use of USP 797 as the standard for sterile compounding, the inclusion of reconstitution under the sterile compounding definition, and the potential reduction of where sterile compounding could be performed.
Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee. Immunization Bills There were four immunization bills introduced, one deleting the requirement for Hepatitis B, one removing tetanus, and two more amending current definitions. They have all been found Inexpedient to Legislate. Pharmacy Benefit Manager Bills There were seven bills introduced around the Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) issue, including extending the sunset of a bill that would have allowed PBMs to credential pharmacists, and a study to continue to look at the issue. HB 1741 - (New Title) Relative to a definition of “contracted copayment” for purposes of the managed care law.
Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. Referred to House Executive Departments and Administration Committee.
Sponsored by Rep. Butler, this bill allows an insured to pay the least amount for covered prescription medication under the managed care law.
Drugs
Referred to House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee. Passed the House with Amendment. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
SB 376-FN - Relative to the sale of certain cold medications. In response to the opioid crisis in NH, Senator Carson introduced this bill which would regulate the sale and possession of products containing ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. Referred to House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee. 6
SB 483 - Relative to procedures for dispensing controlled drugs.
A public hearing was held March 29, 2018. HB 1746-FN - Relative to the practices of pharmacy benefit managers. Sponsored by Rep. Hennessey, this bill prohibits certain practices of pharmacy benefit managers. Referred to House Commerce and Consumer Affairs
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Committee. Passed the House with Amendment. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. A public hearing was held on March 20, 2018. It is awaiting further action by the Committee. HB 1791-FN - Allowing pharmacists to disclose information relative to lower cost drugs under the managed care law. Sponsored by Rep. Butler, this bill declares that a contract between an insurance carrier or pharmacy benefit manager and a contracted pharmacy shall not contain a provision
Sponsored by Senator Gray, this bill requires insurers offering health insurance policies with prescription drug coverage to allow covered persons to synchronize the dispensing dates of their prescription drugs. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. Referred to House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee. A public hearing was held March 27, 2018. Oral Contraceptives
prohibiting the pharmacist from providing certain information to an insured.
House Bill 1822-FN - Making hormonal contraceptives avail-
Referred to the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee. Passed the House.
Sponsored by Representative Mariellen MacKay, this bill allows pharmacists to dispense hormonal contraceptives pursuant to a standing order entered into by health care providers. This bill is the result of the study commission established pursuant to 2017,
Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. A public hearing was held on March 20, 2018. It is awaiting further action by the Committee. SB 354 - Relative to pharmacy claim fees and copayments. Sponsored by Senator Soucy, this bill prohibits a pharmacy benefits manager or insurer from charging or holding a pharmacy responsible for a fee related to a claim under certain circumstances. This bill also prohibits a pharmacy benefits manager or insurer from charging higher copayments and or inserting gag clauses in contracts. Referred to Senate Commerce Committee. Passed the Senate. It will now move to the House for a public hearing. SB 481 – Establishing a committee to study the impact of pharmacy benefit manager operations on cost, administration, and distribution of prescription drugs. Sponsored by Senator Soucy, this bill establishes a committee to study the impact of pharmacy benefit manager operations on cost, administration, and distribution of prescription drugs. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. Referred to House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee. Medication Synchronization SB 332 - Relative to medication synchronization.
able directly from pharmacists by means of a standing order.
23. Referred to House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee. Passed the House. Referred to House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee to look at the insurance portion of the bill. Passed the House with Amendment. It will now move to the Senate for a public hearing. Senate Bill 421 - Relative to insurance coverage for prescription contraceptives. Sponsored by Senator Soucy, this bill clarifies insurance coverage for prescription contraceptive drugs and prescription contraceptive devices and for contraceptive services. Coverage would allow for a 12-month supply. Referred to Senate Commerce Committee. Passed the Senate. It will now move to the House for a public hearing. Syringe Service Programs SB 357 – (New Title) Relative to safe school zones and relative to syringe service programs. Sponsored by Senator Reagan, this bill was amended to allow school district superintendents to grant certain exceptions to the prohibition on locating syringe service programs in a drug-free zone. 7
New England States
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Referred to Senate Education Committee. Passed the Senate with Amendment. It will now move to the House for a public hearing. Telemedicine HB 1471-FN – (New Title) Relative to telemedicine and establishing a committee to study health care reimbursement for telemedicine and telehealth. Sponsored by Rep. Migliore, this bill clarifies the law relating to telemedicine services and also establishes a committee to study health care reimbursement for telemedicine and telehealth. Referred to House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee. Passed the House with Amendment. Referred to House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee. Passed the House with Amendment. The amendment added a study committee to review health care reimbursement. It will now move to the Senate for a public hearing. Vaccinations Senate Bill 333 - Relative to pharmacy interns and vaccinations. Sponsored by Senator Soucy, this bill allows a pharmacy intern under the supervision of a pharmacist to administer hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Tdap, MMR, and meningococcal vaccines. This was a request of the students at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Manchester, New Hampshire campus. Last year, pharmacy interns were granted the authority to immunize, under the direction of a pharmacist, but there was a glitch, and they were not granted authority to administer all that are allowed under NH statute. This is an effort to correct that. Referred to Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Passed the Senate. Referred to House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee.
From left to right: Mike Bullek, RPh, Gary Merchant, RPh and pharmacy students Kaylie Love and Anes Dulas testify on behalf of Senate Bill 333 in the Legislative Office Building in Concord, NH.
In Memoriam James Merrill “Scotty” Scott, 70 of Mountonborough passed away suddenly at his residence on May 22, 2017. James was born on January on January 25, 1947 in Boston, Mass. Jim was a graduate of Inter Lakes High School and the University of Connecticut, Class of 1969. He was a huge Huskies fan. Jim was a pharmacist and proprietor of Scott’s Pharmacy in Meredith and Wolfeboro and later worked for Rite Aid, CVS, Brooks and LaVerdiere’s Pharmacies.
Upcoming 2018 Continuing Education Conferences Remember to save the dates for upcoming CE programs in 2018 which are as follows: The June 9th event in Bartlett, NH has been cancelled. Sunday, September 16, 2018, Labelle Winery, Bedford, NH Sunday, December 9, 2018, Radisson Hotel, Manchester, NH
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2017 Recipients of the “Bowl of Hygeia” Award
Larry Presley Alabama
John McGilvray Alaska
Alan Barreuther Arizona
Sue Frank Arkansas
Pierre Del Prato California
Mary Petruzzi Connecticut
Noel Rosas Delaware
Goar Alvarez Florida
Hewitt Ted Matthews Georgia
Ed Cohen Illinois
Ahmed Abdelmageed Indiana
Tim Becker Iowa
Merlin McFarland Kansas
Melody Ryan Kentucky
Gregory Poret Louisiana
Greg Cameron Maine
Cynthia Boyle Maryland
Anita Young Massachusetts
Dennis Princing Michigan
Denise Frank Minnesota
David French Mississippi
David Farris Missouri
Matthew Bowman Montana
Gary Rihanek Nebraska
Mark Decerbo Nevada
Hubert Hein New Hampshire
Thomas F.X. Bender, Jr. New Jersey
David Lansford New Mexico
John T. McDonald III New York
Steve Caiola North Carolina
Tim Weippert North Dakota
Debra Parker Ohio
Ben Allison Oklahoma
Mercy Chipman Oregon
Jerry Musheno Pennsylvania
Marisa Carrasquillo Puerto Rico
Gary Kishfy Rhode Island
Terry Blackmon South Carolina
Tim Tucker Tennessee
Chris Alvarado Texas
Kurt Price Utah
Pat Resto Virginia
The “Bowl of Hygeia”
In Memoriam: Rob Loe South Dakota Keith Campbell Washington Daneka Lucas Washington DC
Kevin Yingling West Virginia
Thad Schumacher Wisconsin
Joe Steiner Wyoming
The Bowl of Hygeia award program was originally developed by the A. H. Robins Company to recognize pharmacists across the nation for outstanding service to their communities. Selected through their respective professional pharmacy associations, each of these dedicated individuals has made uniquely personal contributions to a strong, healthy community. We offer our congratulations and thanks for their high example. The American Pharmacists Association Foundation, the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations and the state pharmacy associations have assumed responsibility for continuing this prestigious recognition program. All former recipients are encouraged to maintain their linkage to the Bowl of Hygeia by emailing current contact information to awards@naspa.us. The Bowl of Hygeia is on display in the APhA History Hall located in Washington, DC. Boehringer Ingelheim is proud to be the Premier Supporter of the Bowl of Hygeia program.
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Features PJNE is Getting Redesigned! The Massachusetts Pharmacists Association, along with the Connecticut Pharmacists Association, has decided to redesign the Pharmacy Journal of New England. This revision aims to develop cutting edge, theme-focused content for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians throughout New England. The goal is to launch the redesign for the summer issue of PJNE, and we want you to get involved! The summer issue, which comes out in July, will feature a theme of pharmacy residencies, fellowships and careers. Please visit the next few pages to learn more how you (and your colleagues) can be a part of this journal redesign.
Get Your Work Published Are you a pharmacy resident in New England who recently completed a research project/clinical pearl—or a preceptor who completed a preceptor development pearl? There is now an opportunity available to publish your project in the 2018 summer issue of the Pharmacy Journal of New England (PJNE)! The Massachusetts Pharmacists Association, in collaboration with the Connecticut Pharmacists Association, is currently accepting submissions for resident clinical pearls, resident research projects and preceptor development pearls. The top 3 submissions will be published in PJNE. All submissions should be submitted to CPA Communications Director Lisa Capobianco by Monday, June 11. Pharmacists should submit: • Title of pearl or project • Category of pearl or project • Clinical pearl (limited to presentation by residents) OR • Preceptor development pearl (limited to presentation by preceptors)
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NOTE: Preceptor pearls should focus on an area of preceptor skills such as clinical teaching roles, assessment of resident performance, providing effective feedback, or focus on residency quality improvement processes. • Statement of educational needs assessment (explain why the content is important to the audience) • Identification of planned active learning assessment (multiple-choice question, discussion, etc.) • Abstract of 150 words or less to provide a short summary of the pearl (Title, Needs Statement, Active Learning Assessment and Objectives do not contribute to the 150-word limit) • NOTE: Abstracts for resident clinical pearls should focus on the particular patient population involved (if applicable), the rationale for the pearl, and when to implement the pearl in practice or training. • Two knowledge-level objectives that are specific and measurable (see criteria for objectives, below) Below is the following criteria in which all submissions will be evaluated on: • Clarity • Organization • Significance • Originality • Freedom from typing/grammar errors • Inclusion of required elements
Get Your Journal CE Published We are currently accepting all kinds journal CE submissions. This is a great opportunity to showcase your recent research or best practices to help pharmacists advance in the profession. The following page shows a template of what the journal CE should look like.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Please do not adjust margins Pharmacy Journal of New England
ARTICLE Title A. N. Authorname,a A. N. Authornameb and A. N. Authornamec Abstract text goes here. The abstract should be a single paragraph that summarises the content of the article. The abstract should be a single paragraph (50–250 words). It should set out briefly and clearly the main objectives and results of the work; it should give the reader a clear idea of what has been achieved. Like your title, make sure you use recognisable, searchable terms and keywords.
The main text of the article should appear here with headings as appropriate.
Introduction
An introduction should 'set the scene' of the work. It should clearly explain both the nature of the problem under investigation and its background. It should start off general and then focus in to the specific research question you are investigating. Ensure you include all relevant references.
Key Points
For manuscripts in the Research, Reviews, Advances in Pharmacy Practice, Experience, and Commentary sections, authors are required to prepare key points in a bulleted format that describe the article's relevance and contribution to the literature. These are presented under two separate headings: Background and Findings. Two or three key points under each of these headings should provide the context for the article (what is already known on the topic, other relevant background) and what the manuscript findings adds to existing knowledge on the topic.
Article Text
Research: Hypothesis-driven and generalizable studies with sufficient power to show statistical significance that are based on scientific method and scholarly investigations
The conclusions section should come in this section at the end of the article, before the acknowledgements. This is for interpretation of the key points and to highlight the novelty and significance of the work. The conclusions should not summarize information already present in the article or abstract. Plans for relevant future work can also be included.
Acknowledgements The acknowledgements come at the end of an article after the conclusions and before the notes and references.
Notes and references ‡ Footnotes relating to the main text should appear here. These might include comments relevant to but not central to the matter under discussion, limited experimental and spectral data, and crystallographic data. § §§ etc. 1 Citations should appear here in the format A. Name, B. Name and C. Name, Journal Title, 2000, 35, 3523; A. Name, B. Name and C. Name, Journal Title, 2000, 35, 3523. 2 …
Advances in Pharmacy Practice: Innovations or other related advances in pharmacy practice; should describe in sufficient detail how to develop and evaluate the innovative practice in such a way that it could be replicated Systematic Reviews: Systematically driven, comprehensive, and reproducible summaries of current research in primary pharmacy and biomedical literature on clinical, administrative, legal, humanistic, or economic topics; may be evaluated quantitatively (e.g., meta-analysis) or qualitatively based on objective criteria Commentary: Informed (supported by referenced citations) personal opinions about events, trends, and/or developments in pharmacy or health care
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Pharmacy Marketing Group
Rx and the Law By: Don R. McGuire Jr., R.Ph, JD
Animal Patients The pharmacist at Anytown Pharmacy had prepared prescriptions for two pets and placed them in the refrigerator awaiting pickup. When Butch’s owner came in to pick up his prescription, the owner was given another dog’s prescription. Upon administration, the dog became lethargic and Butch’s owner took him to the vet. Unfortunately, Butch’s symptoms couldn’t be reversed and he died as a result of the incorrect drug’s effects. Butch’s owner subsequently made a claim for damages against the pharmacy. What damages is Butch’s owner entitled to recover? In the majority of states, pets and other animals are considered personal property. As such, the owner is not entitled to recover damages for emotional pain and suffering or mental anguish, no matter how close the owner is to the pet or how much a part of their family they consider the pet to be. This can make these types of claims difficult to settle because the owner feels that the bond with their pet is not being considered. Under the law, they are correct. The bond with their pet is not compensable. What is compensable is the market value of the animal and other costs resulting from the incident? These other costs could be the cost of treatment by a vet or in extreme cases, the cost of burial or cremation of the animal. The market value of an animal includes a number of factors, such as the original purchase price, the cost of replacement, and other elements that can enhance the animal’s value. For example, if the animal patient is a prize-winning race horse, the owner would be entitled to recover lost stud fees and other income derived from the horse’s performances. The cost to replace a winning race horse can also be substantial. The potential vet bills for an injured pet could also be substantial. Because of the bond with their pet, the distraught owner might be willing to try any treatment, even those with only a small chance of success. It would not be unusual for vet bills to exceed the market value of an animal.
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Because animals are considered property under the law, some states may have different procedures for these types of claims. States that have damage caps in medical negligence cases may not apply them here. These caps are generally applied to the injured patient’s damages for pain and suffering. Because animal claims are property claims and there are no emotional damages, these caps do not apply. Also, because these claims are property claims, they may not be eligible for the Medical Review Panel process if that is in place in your state. In the Medical Review Panel process, the negligence claim is reviewed and evaluated by a panel of practitioners before the case can go to court. The case then only goes to court if one of the parties disagrees with the panel’s decision. Pharmacists may not think much about the financial risks from an animal claim because there are no damages for emotional distress. While this is true, the other exposures can still be significant. Market values for race horses that have died as the result of prescription errors can reach six figure settlements. This can be multiplied if more than one animal is killed or injured. A case in Florida in 2009 resulted in the deaths of 21 polo ponies from a compounded nutritional supplement. A jury awarded the owners of the horses $2.5 million. Pharmacists are health care providers because they want to help their patients. This is true whether the patient is human or an animal. The differences in the law for damages as the result of an error should not influence the way that a pharmacist approaches the care that they provide. There are groups advocating in several states for changes in these laws to allow for the owner to recover emotional damages. Pharmacists will need to verify the law in their state. All patients deserve the same processes and safeguards. As with any aspect of their practices, pharmacists should be well informed of the standards and risks for any activity undertaken.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Financial Forum Getting (Mentally) Ready to Retire
Even those who have saved millions must prepare for a lifestyle adjustment. A successful retirement is not merely measured in financial terms. Even those who retire with small fortunes can face boredom or depression and the fear of drawing down their savings too fast. How can new retirees try to calm these worries? Two factors may help: a gradual retirement transition and some guidance from a financial professional. An abrupt break from the workplace may be unsettling. As a hypothetical example, imagine a well-paid finance manager at an auto dealership whose personal identity is closely tied to his job. His best friends are all at the dealership. He retires, and suddenly his friends and sense of purpose are absent. He finds that he has no compelling reason to leave the house, nothing to look forward to when he gets up in the morning. Guess what? He hates being retired. On the other hand, if he prepares for retirement years in advance of his farewell party by exploring an encore career, engaging in varieties of self-employment, or volunteering, he can retire with something promising ahead of him. If he broadens the scope of his social life, so that he can see friends and family regularly and interact with both older and younger people in different settings, his retirement may also become more enjoyable. The interests and needs of a retiree can change with age or as he or she disengages from the working world. Retired households may need to adjust their lifestyles in response to this evolution.
their retirement savings were accumulated to be spent. Being miserly with retirement money contradicts its purpose. The average 65-year-old who retires in 2017 will have a retirement lasting approximately 20 years, by the estimation of the Social Security Administration. So, why not spend some money now and enjoy retired life?1 Broadly speaking, our spending declines as we age. The average U.S. household headed by an 80-year-old spends 43% less money than one headed by a 50-year-old.1 Retirement challenges people in two ways. The obvious challenge is financial; the less obvious challenge is mental. Both tests may be met with sufficient foresight and dedication. Citations. 1 - tinyurl.com/ydedsyl5 [4/24/17]
Practically all retirees have some financial anxiety. It relates to the fact of no longer earning a conventional paycheck. You see it in couples who have $60,000 saved for retirement; you see it in couples who have $6 million saved for retirement. Their retirement strategies are about to be tested, in real time. All that careful planning is ready to come to fruition, but there are always unknowns. Some retirees are afraid to spend. They fear spending too much too soon. With help from a financial professional, they can thoughtfully plan a withdrawal rate. While no retiree wants to squander money, all retirees should realize that 13
From the Colleges
University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy UConn Research on the Treatment of Persistent Asthma Published in Leading Medical Journal When it comes to treating teens and adults with persistent asthma, using a single corticosteroid and long-acting Above, Diana Sobieraj, Assistant bronchodilator Professor of Pharmacy Practice, and treatment William Baker, Assistant Professor of for both daily Pharmacy Practice at UConn asthma control and for rescue relief during sudden asthma attacks is more effective than taking separate medications for daily control and rescue, according to an analysis led by University of Connecticut researchers. The findings appeared in the May 7, 2018 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association and featured the work of UConn faculty Diana Sobieraj and William Baker. Standard treatment guidelines for persistent asthma in the United States currently suggest using different medications for daily control and rescue relief. The UConn findings are part of a larger comprehensive review of asthma-related medical practices conducted for the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) at the request of the National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute. The complete AHRQ report is available online. In a separate review also appearing in JAMA, a UConnled analysis found that a new class of long- acting bronchodilators – known as long-acting muscarinic antagonists or LAMAs – significantly reduced the risk of exacerbations in people over 12 years with uncontrolled asthma when added to an inhaled corticosteroid, compared to a placebo. The comprehensive scientific reviews reported in the two
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studies were led by a multidisciplinary team from the UConn School of Pharmacy’s Evidence-based Practice Center. The center is one of 13 nationally supported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The centers review scientific evidence surrounding common medical conditions and new medical technologies to improve the quality and safety of national health care. The AHRQ conducted its review of asthma treatments and protocols at the request of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The Institute sponsors national asthma treatment guidelines. The Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma (Expert Panel Report-3) was published in 2007.
UConn Faculty and Alums Awarded at 2018 APhA Annual Meeting Three individuals with UConn connections were honored at the 2018 Annual Meeting of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) held in Nashville, Tenn. March 16–19, 2018. Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice Nathanial Rickles, Pharm.D., Ph.D., BCPP was named a 2018 APhA Fellow. Rickles Nathaniel Rickles at APhA Conference joined the 2018. Photo by Phil Hritcko UConn School of Pharmacy in 2016. His teaching interests include health communication, health behavior change/health promotion, the sociology of mental health, and research/design methods. He is a member of UConn’s Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy (InCHIP), Center of Aging, and the Center for Public Health and Health Policy. He has also collaborated with the non-profit Institute for Community Research in Hartford, which is devoted to finding the root
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
causes of health disparities among disadvantaged individuals and communities. Stefanie Ferreri ’97 (BS/Pharmacy) received the APhA-APPM Distinguished Achievement Award in Pharmacy Practice. Ferreri is now a clinical professor at the University of North Carolina’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy. She is also a Fellow of the APhA. The 2018 Research Achievement Award was presented to Betsy Sleath, ’88 (BS/Pharmacy), the George H. Cocolas Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy and chair of the Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy. Sleath has been a member of the APhA since her student days at UConn.
In Memoriam - MIchael J. Pikal Emeritus Professor and former Department Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Michael J. Pikal, passed away on Monday, Feb. 26, 2018. He had been at the UConn School of Pharmacy since 1996, retiring from his position at the University in December 2017. “Mike was instrumental in developing pharmaceutical sciences at UConn through his leadership as department head, cutting edge research, training contributions, and global collaborations. He was truly one of a kind and an inspirational personality in every way. He will be missed, “ said Dean James Halpert, UConn School of Pharmacy. Pikal received his B.S. in Chemistry from St. John’s University in Minnesota and his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Iowa State University. His postdoctoral training was Michael J. Pikal with Dr. D.G. Miller in the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory in California.
Betsy Sleath (center, above) accepted this placque on behalf of her coauthors, from APhA-APRS President Robert DiCenzo and APhA President-Elect Nicki Hilliard at the 2018 APhA Annual Meeting in Nashville, TN.
assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Tennessee from 1967 to 1972. At Lilly for 24 years, Pikal became a senior research scientist, and his contributions to the company were recognized with the 1996 President’s Award. He returned to academia, joining the UConn faculty as Professor of Pharmaceutics in 1996. From 1998 to 2001, he served as department head of Pharmaceutical Sciences while maintaining a fully active and highly productive research program. On October 14, 2005, he was installed as the inaugural Pfizer Distinguished Endowed Chair in Pharmaceutical Technology. Pikal was a leader in the field of freeze-drying technology and was the driving force behind the School of Pharmacy’s successful partnerships with groups such as The Center for Pharmaceutical Processing Research (CPPR), The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education (NIPTE), and more recently The National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL). He played a central role in the founding of The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology & Education (NIPTE) and was a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS) and the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS). In 1997, Dr. Pikal was the recipient of the Ebert Prize from the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) Academy of Pharmaceutical Research and Science and the 1989 PDA’s
Before joining Lilly Research Laboratories in 1972, Pikal was 15
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Best Paper of the Year Award. He was the Busse Lecturer at the University of Wisconsin (1983) and the Enz Lecturer at the University of Kansas (1998). Dr. Pikal was also a Fellow of AAPS and received the AAPS Research Achievement Award in Pharmaceutical Technologies in 2001 and the Criofarma Award in Freeze Drying in 2006. In 2009 he received the AAPS’ highest ranking award, the Distinguished Pharmaceutical Scientist Award, an award that recognizes those that have made substantial contributions to the pharmaceutical sciences that have had a lasting impact. Fewer than 20 scientists have received this accolade.
Committee, the Pharm.D. Graduation Awards & Prizes Committee, and is the school’s representative to the University Senate and member of its Scholastic Standards Committee. At the University level, he served on the UConn Institutional Biosafety Committee (2011 – 2017), Recombinant & Synthetic Nucleic Acid Committee (2011 – 2017), the Research Enhancement Program grant review (2016 – 2017), and Honors Program Development Task Force (2016 & 2017). He currently serves on the UConn Honors Board of Associate Directors and the search committee for the assistant director of Honors Residential Communities.
Throughout his career at UConn, Pikal directed a prominent and diverse research program in the area of science and technology of freeze drying, solid-state chemistry/materials science of pharmaceuticals and protein stability. His contribution to enriching these areas was extensive with more than 170 publications. This scholarly work was notably characterized by strong collaborative efforts with an array of private industry and institutions.
Upcoming Professional Development Events From Mystic, CT to Florence, Italy
UConn 2018 Dean Robert L. McCarthy Faculty Service Award Winners Kevin Chamberlin and Brian Aneskievich have been selected as recipients of the University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy’s Dean Robert L. McCarthy Faculty Service Award. Chamberlin serves as assistant department head, a member of the departmental Promotion, Tenure, and Reappointment Committee, a member of the school’s Academic and Technical Standards Committee, a member of the Young Alumni Steering Committee, and as the chair of the Interprofessional Education Committee. At the University level he is a member of the Academic Integrity Hearing Board. At his practice site, he is the Pharmacy Residency Program Director and chair of the Residency Advisory Committee. He has an adjunct appointment in the UConn School of Medicine. At the state level, he is the Vice-Chair of the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid) Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics (P& T) Committee. He also serves on the CPA Bioterrorism Clinical Advisory Team and is a longtime member of the CT American Society of Consultant Pharmacists’ Senior Symposium Planning Committee and their Communications Committee.
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Brian serves as the School of Pharmacy’s Honors Advisor, chairs the Honors & Professional Student Research
Registration is now open for the following: June 25-26, 2018 | Mechanisms & Therapeutics in Immunotherapy, Mystic Marriott, Groton, Connecticut This two-day program will present recent developments in the science of immunology with a state-of-the-art discussion of immune based therapies in transplantation and cancer. Topics include: Immune System and Cell Signaling, Innate Immunity/Inflammation: MHC and Antigen Processing, Antigen Receptor Diversity in Primary and Secondary Responses, Immune Tolerance, Immune Defense Against Pathogens, Efficacy of Vaccines, Tumor Immunotherapy, and Transplantation Immunology. More information and link to sign up HERE. November 5-9, 2018 | The Mediterranean Diet from an Italian Perspective, Florence, Italy The Mediterranean diet is one of the important diets in terms of its ability to optimize our health, promote longevity, prevent disease and sustain our environment. Scientific studies and meta-analyses unequivocally demonstrate that the Mediterranean diet is effective in preventing or even reversing cardiovascular disease. The primary purpose of this conference is to reveal new perspectives of the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle to practicing health care providers in the US. Attendees will experience the insider’s view of the real Mediterranean diet; one that is considerably different than what is portrayed in the US. More information and link to sign up HERE.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences – Boston Dear Colleagues, The Spring 2018 semester has come to a close and much has been achieved by the School of Pharmacy–Boston. A few of our accomplishments are highlighted below. I hope you will enjoy reading about some of our many successes. On behalf of President Monahan and Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost Zeind, I wish you all an enjoyable summer. With warm regards, Paul DiFrancesco Dean and Associate Professor
Opioid Symposium The University’s 3rd Opioid Healthcare Crisis Symposium was held April 5. Led by MCPHS faculty members Frank Melaragni and Carly Levy, guest panelists spoke about their crucial work combating the crisis; additionally, more than 15 PharmD students presented their work in the area. The panelists included Mary Wheeler, program director at Healthy Streets Outreach Program in Lynn, Mass.; Marcy Julian, senior Western Massachusetts regional manager for Learn to Cope;
Jake Nichols PharmD ’00, chief executive officer of Strategic Recovery Resources, LLC, a private consulting group specializing in key aspects of addiction medicine; and Allison Burns PharmD ’16, founder of End Mass Overdose and cohost of “The Exit Team,” a Boston Neighborhood Network news cable television feature focused on addiction recovery. The evening concluded with two pilot programs: all attendees received a prescription drug disposal packet and Naloxone nasal spray devices. Special thanks to MCPHS alumna and member of the Board of Trustees Maryesther Fournier BSP ‘75, owner and president of Smith Drug, for her leadership and continued support for the Naloxone device pilot.
Business Plan Capstone On April 11, the Advanced Practice Management (PY-3) course held its 14th Annual Capstone Business Plan Competition. This exciting event Business Plan Capstone, above is the culmination of a yearlong project for forty student teams, all competing for the top three spots in the ranking. (Additionally, there is recognition for the best team logo.) The business plans were judged by a diverse group of healthcare professionals, local entrepreneurs, and Colleges of the Fenway faculty, who collectively awarded more than $4,000 in prizes. The winning team, “Techknowledgy Telepharmacy” (led by project manager Stephanie Colucci PharmD ’19 and assistant project manager Sarah Hopkins PharmD ’19) created a business plan to establish an independent community telepharmacy providing service to three remote locations in northern Maine.
Above, a scene from MCPH’s Opioid Conference.
The second place team (led by project manager Nico Patel 17
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PharmD ’19 and assistant project manager Il Hyun Kim PharmD ’16) developed a virtual reality program that will revolutionize treatment for patients with dementia. Project manager Laurie Lee and her team KeepCool designed a unique, sustainable cooling system for medications using simple, cost-effective materials such as clay and water. Targeting areas throughout the world where electricity is not readily accessible, KeepCool took home third place.
Rho Chi Induction The Boston campus Psi Chapter of the Rho Chi Academic Honor Society in Pharmacy held its induction ceremony March 17 at the Hyatt Regency in Cambridge, Mass. The William E. Hassan Jr. Distinguished Rho Chi Memorial Lecture was delivered by Adam Persky, PhD, clinical professor at the Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. A total of sixty-five PharmD students from the Class of 2020, ten postbaccalaureate students from the Class of 2018, and four graduate students were inducted. The faculty inductees included assistant professor Yulia Murray PharmD ‘07, and assistant professor and director of experiential education Andrew Szumita, PharmD. Congratulations to all the inductees!
Pharmaceutical Business and Science Students Recognition Dinner The PBSS Recognition Dinner was held April 20 at the Boston campus. Professors Tim Maher PharmD ’80, PhD, and Gail Marcus spoke to the students outlining their own career pathways and tips for success. Those students graduating with BS degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology & Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Health Care Business, and Biomedical Informatics were awarded certificates and awards for leadership, service and academic achievements as well as a new award for Diversity, instituted by President Monahan.
Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship For the 2018 SURF cycle, twelve students were selected as fellows and began their research with their assigned mentors starting in May. The students were selected through a competitive process that included interviews by the SURF Committee comprised of two students (Phuong Duong 18
PharmD ’19 and Nguyen Vu PharmD ’19), previous SURF participants, and six faculty members including Dr. Steven Crosby (Chair), Dr. Timothy Maher, Dr. Michelle Ceresia, Dr. Hongwei Zhang, Dr. Ned Barden, and Dr. Stephen Kerr.
Sigma Xi Induction MCPHS University is a member of the Delta Chapter of Sigma Xi (The Scientific Research Honor Society) which also includes two other Colleges of the Fenway. This year the Induction Ceremony was held in White Hall on the Boston campus. Dr. Steven Crosby, associate professor, assistant dean, and treasurer of the Delta Chapter, organized the event. Dr. Alejandro Pino, associate professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology, presented the keynote address to the student inductees and four MCPHS students were inducted into the Society.
Faculty Updates Dr. Greg Landry, assistant professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology, received an AACP 2018 New Investigator Award for his work entitled “Effects of lead on oxalate nephrolithiasis.” Rania Mekary, PhD, assistant professor of Social and Administrative Sciences, published several peer-reviewed articles on meta-analysis with SOP-B PharmD students (Thomas Simjian PharmD ’17, Nadia Noormohamed PharmD ’17, Heba Edrees PharmD ’18, Bilal Aslam PharmD ’17 and Sadia Minhas PharmD ’17) as first and co-authors. The journal publications included: World Neurosurgery, Clinical Neurology & Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery, and Radiation Oncology.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences – Worcester/ Manchester Dear Colleagues, The School of Pharmacy–Worcester/ Manchester had a busy and successful Spring 2018 semester. Our summer semester beganMay 21. The class of 2018 has completed APPE rotations and graduates are excited about the residency, fellowship, and employment opportunities that await them, following the MCPHS University Commencement ceremonies that took place on May 5 at Gillette Stadium. Best wishes for a successful summer semester! Anna K. Morin, PharmD Dean and Professor of Pharmacy Practice
assumed leadership roles by assisting faculty with the activity’s facilitation.
Student Pharmacy Advocacy SB 333, a bill that would expand the pharmacy intern immunization law in New Hampshire, was heard in the House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee on April 3. Nine pharmacy students and two pharmacy faculty from MCPHS were in attendance. Students testified after Senator Donna Soucy introduced the bill to the members of the House HHS Committee. For approximately 45 minutes, the students took the stand to testify in support of the bill that they had helped to draft. They answered a broad variety of questions from the nurses and doctors on the Committee about their educations, including their ability to immunize and monitor for adverse reactions.
Interprofessional Education (IPE) On January 18, the Worcester/Manchester Interprofessional Education (IPE) Working Group coordinated the Bafa’ Bafa’ IPE Cross Cultural Simulation Activity on both campuses. Students learned the characteristics of one of two cultures: alpha and beta. Pairs of students then visited the other culture to observe and interact while maintaining their own culture. Small groups of alpha and beta rooms interacted with one another to try to understand the characteristics of each culture. The two cultures merged at the end of the activity for a debriefing session to discuss feelings and potential judgments made about each culture. Students then discussed how this simulation can be applied to the health care setting. The event included 693 students (513 from Worcester and 180 from Manchester). It is the first year that participation included students from all nine programs: Acupuncture, Dental Hygiene. Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Nursing – BSN, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies. In addition, twenty faculty members from both campuses participated and more than thirty Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience students
Pictured above, L to R: Christopher Do PharmD ’18, professor of pharmacy practice Kris Willett PharmD ’04, Lyanh Harding PharmD ’18, vice chair of pharmacy and associate professor Cheryl Durand, PharmD, Matthew Benn PharmD ’18, Sotheara Ouk PharmD ’18, Kaylie Love PharmD ’18, Michael Harter PharmD ’18, Elizabeth Sargent (lobbyist), Anes Dulas PharmD ’18, Emily Chase PharmD ’18. Not pictured: Saja Alhazmi PharmD ’18
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The legislators were impressed and complimented the students for their hard work and dedication to pharmacy advocacy in the state. Following their testimony, the committee voted 15-1 ‘Ought to Pass’. SB 333 will be added to the House Consent Calendar to be voted on by the full House. We anticipate no discussion at the full House; upon its approval, the bill will move to Governor Sununu’s desk for signing.
Rho Chi Honor Society and Phi Lambda Sigma Leadership Society Induction Ceremonies The induction ceremonies and dinner celebration for Rho Chi (Gamma Pi Chapter) and Phi Lambda Sigma (Gamma Gamma Chapter) took place April 4 in Worcester, Mass. The School of Pharmacy-Worcester/Manchester is proud of the fifty-seven Rho Chi student inductees and the thirty-six Phi Lambda Sigma student inductees who will work closely with faculty preceptors and society officers to continue the tradition of academic excellence, leadership and community service promoted by these prestigious pharmacy societies. Two SOPW/M faculty, Dr. Donna Bartlett and Dr. Michael Bear, were also inducted into Phi Lambda Sigma.
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Research Day On April 11, the annual School of Pharmacy–Worcester/ Manchester Research Day shone a spotlight on the scholarship activity of our PharmD students, graduate students, residents, fellows, and faculty. The poster presentation format drew entries covering a diversity of topics ranging from “Vitamin D deficiency and statin-induced myopathy – A review of the evidence” and “Combination treatment with Piperlongumine and low-dose Erlotinib inhibits pancreatic cancer cell viability” to “Generic Drug Price Erosion” and “Student Perceptions on Interprofessional Collaboration through Non-simulated, Geriatric Outreach Community Programs.” The poster presentations demonstrated the depth and range of special scholarly interests of the School of Pharmacy–Worcester/Manchester community.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
University of New England ‘Mainebiz’ Reports on UNE College of Pharmacy Residency Partnership with CVS Health The University of New England College of Pharmacy has joined CVS Health to offer a residency training program in specialty pharmacy. The fastest-growing segment of the pharmacy industry, specialty pharmacy focuses on high-cost, high-touch medication therapy for patients with complex disease states. With this partnership, UNE is part of a select group of U.S. universities offering this specific program. According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, there are currently more than 1,700 pharmacy residency programs in the country, but it is estimated that fewer than a dozen concentrate in specialty pharmacy. The residency will allow pharmacists to learn from real-world experience with “specialty” medications, which typically involve unique handling and administration requirements. It will provide hands-on management and clinical training around conditions such as organ transplant, hepatitis C, HIV and rheumatoid arthritis. This program, which has an agreement through June 2020, continues a partnership established by UNE and Apothecary by Design (ABD). Recently acquired by CVS Health, ABD will remain a provider of specialty pharmacy services to patients with chronic, complex diseases at its Portland, Maine location. The UNE-CVS Health resident will be based at ABD and will be an employee of CVS Health. Kenneth McCall, Pharm.D., BCGP, FAPhA associate professor for the Department of Pharmacy Practice, serves as director of the program. “With recent advances in science, specialty care is at the forefront of pharmacy, and CVS Health is at the forefront of specialty,” he stated. “The University of New England College of Pharmacy is thrilled to enter into this specialty pharmacy partnership with CVS Health, offering a unique opportunity which complements the other rich resources we bring to the profession of pharmacy.” “We’re pleased to work with UNE on this residency program and to introduce pharmacy graduates to the specialty pharmacy field,” added Amy Oliveira, Sr. Director, Pharmacist
Pictured above, from L to R : Morgan Ubochi, Hillary Chase, and Justin Richards
Talent Acquisition, CVS Health. “Through this unique specialty pharmacy experience, graduates will be exposed to a growing part of the pharmacy business and be armed with the skills and expertise they need to care for patients with complex and chronic conditions.” Read the article in Mainebiz.
Karen Houseknecht and UNE Students Published in Leading Mental Health and Clinical Psychology Journal Karen Houseknecht, Ph.D., professor of Pharmacology in the University of New England College of Pictured above, from L to Osteopathic Medicine and R : Karen Houseknect, PhD, interim dean of the College Celeste Bouchard, of Pharmacy, and students COM ‘20, Cody Black, COP ’18 Celeste Bouchard (COM, ’20), and Cody Black (COP, ’18), have been published in Mental Health and Clinical Psychology, a journal that publishes research papers dealing with all aspects of depressive, anxiety disorders and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) for all age groups (child, adolescent, adult and geriatric).
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Following her recent publication in the journal, Houseknecht was invited to write a literature review concerning the effect of psychiatric drugs on bone. Houseknecht, Bouchard and Black’s manuscript highlights the work of the Houseknecht laboratory and delves into other research that explores the effects of these drugs on bone health. Bouchard and Black contributed to the review by analyzing published literature on the topic and helping to write specific portions of the manuscript. Bouchard, a Morgane Research Fellow, examined the role of antipsychotic drugs on gene expression in the liver. Black, who plans to pursue a PGY1 residency and an academic fellowship, researched the genetic relationship between mental disorders and predisposition of bone fractures, as well as the key mechanisms of antipsychotic and antidepressant-mediated bone fractures.
Shannon and Cavanaugh were selected through a competitive application process with only 50 slots available nationally. After being trained on the policy making process, effective communication and pharmacy issues, they applied their education through meetings on Capitol Hill. “Advocacy for our patients and our profession is important because it’s the intersection of professionalism and citizenship,” said Kenneth McCall, BSPharm, Pharm.D., CGP, associate professor and residency director in the College of Pharmacy. “This experience enables students to expand their own personal viewpoints through interactions with legislators and legislative staff and to better articulate the value that a pharmacist provides to the health of society.”
“An important mission of our work is to train future healthcare providers in evidence-based medicine,” said Houseknecht. “I wanted to give Celeste and Cody the opportunity to learn more about the clinical side effects of these medications on bone, which are not widely known or understood, and for them to learn what is known about underlying medication-induced bone disease.” Read the review in the Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology.
UNE College of Pharmacy Students Travel to Capitol Hill for RxIMPACT Day Chosen from a nationwide pool of applicants, Samantha Shannon (COP, ’18) and Tori Cavanaugh (COP ’19) were selected to represent the UNE College of Pharmacy at the 2018 National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) RxImpact Day. Held March 7 and 8, 2018, the event took place in Washington, D.C. Shannon and Cavanaugh met with legislators to advocate for HR 592/S109, the Pharmacy and Medically Underserved Areas Enhancement Act. Currently, 226 sponsors in the House of Representatives and 45 sponsors in the Senate support this legislation that increases access to pharmacist services. By supporting this legislation, pharmacists are taking a stand for better healthcare and advancing the profession of pharmacy to provider status. 22
Pictured above, starting third from left: Kenneth McCall, Maine Representative Bruce Poliquin and Tori Cavanaugh.
UNE College of Pharmacy Hosts Medication Takeback Event as Part of National Movement Students and faculty at the University of New England’s College of Pharmacy joined with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Walgreens on April 28th to safely collect and dispose of unused or expired prescription medications. Pharmacy students and students from the UNE College of Osteopathic Medicine participated at three Portland locations: Walgreens Allen Avenue, Walgreens Forest Avenue and the College of Pharmacy on the UNE’s Portland Campus. Unused prescription drugs that collect in our homes can lead
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
to addiction and help fuel Maine’s opioid crisis. Medication Take Back Day is part of UNE’s effort to combat the epidemic.
At the UNE College of Pharmacy location, 28 community members returned more than 600 prescriptions.
The event was also a learning experience for students.
DEA Resident Agent in Charge Michael Wardrop was on hand to gather the medications and make sure they were stored properly. The drugs were incinerated at a location in Portland on April 29th.
“They get to practice interfacing with patients, talking with patients about medications and how to safely use them and dispose of them,” said Karen Houseknecht, Ph.D., interim dean of the College of Pharmacy. Students also tracked the different kinds of medications brought in and the quantities.
Students from UNE’s College of Pharmacy and College of Osteopathic Medicine also took part by providing free blood pressure screenings.
“We learn prescribing patterns. What drugs physicians are prescribing more or less of, are they being used, are patients actually taking them or not taking them? That helps us understand how drugs work and how drugs are being used by the public,” said Houseknecht.
Pictured above, participating in Drug Takeback Day are at left, Danielle Simeone and at right, Alana Dube.
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University of St. Joseph Message from the Dean
Antonio, TX. February 2018.
Dear Colleagues:
Sun J., Yuan Z., Abajas Y.L., Szollosi DE, Hu G., Hua B., Xiao X.,
Greetings to All!
in mice with FVIII inhibitor development after AAV mediated
University of Saint Joseph School of Pharmacy held its fifth Hooding, Oath, and Awards Ceremony at the Hoffman Auditorium, The Bruyette Athenaeum, on the main campus, on Friday, May 11, 2018. The Doctor of Pharmacy degree was officially conferred on this 76-member Class of 2018 on Saturday, May 12, 2018. As we reflect on and celebrate their academic achievements at USJ, we also anticipate the bright futures that lie ahead for each one of them. Thank you for your unwavering support and best wishes. Joseph Ofosu Founding Dean and Professor
News
and Chengwen L. A retrospective study of the cytokine profiles gene therapy in a hemophilia A mouse model. Human Gene Therapy, 2018 March;29(3):381-389. Rudraiah S, Shamilov R, Aneskievich BJ. TNIP1 Reduction Sensitizes Keratinocytes to Post-receptor Signaling Following Exposure to TLR Agonists. Cellular Signaling 45, 81-92, 2018. Nada AA, Rajesh AM, Ramos DM, Kronekova Z, Mosnacek J, Rudraiah S, Kumbar SG. Bioactive Polymeric Formulations for Wound Healing. Polymer Advanced Technologies, 1-11, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1002/pat.4288 Slauson SR and Mandela P. An Active Learning Activity to Reinforce the Design Components of the Corticosteroids. Pharmacy 2018, 6, 16; doi:10.3390 / pharmacy 6010016
Congratulations to Christina Petrelis (P2 student) on winning the “Symposium Day Provost Award for Outstanding Poster,” April 18, 2018.
Publications Levine AR, Riggott R, Vulaj K, Falcetti TR, Ali S, Singh G. A Collaborative Approach to Improve Consistent Use of Procalcitonin in Lower-Respiratory-Tract Infections. Ann Pharmacother. 2018 Jan 1 Wiskirchen DE, Wu U, Summa MA, Perrin AE. Inpatient antibiotic resistance: everyone’s problem. J Fam Prac 2018;67(2):E1-E11. Lemieux SM, Lopez F, Eng CC, Rouse GE. Use of Continuous Infusion Epoprostenol in a Patient with Secondary Raynaud’s
Above, Christina Petrelis is pictured with her poster.
Phenomenon. Int J Pharm Pharmacol. 2018; 2: 124. Nounou MI, El Haddad G, El Amrawy F, El Gaddar O, El Yazbi
Posters and Presentations
A and Eshra A; Comparative Randomized Crossover Clinical
Christine Agudosi, Ashley Bill, Ghoneim OM, Jyothi Dhuguru,
Study for the Evaluation of Erectile Dysfunction Medications Via Novel Pentagon System, Current Drug Safety, 2018, 13, 12-20. Levine AR, Tran M, Naut E. The diagnostic value of procalcitonin in urinary tract infections. 47th Critical Care Congress. San
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Edafiogho IO, and Szollosi DE. Determining the anti-inflammatory activity of modified JODI compounds: structure activity relationship. Poster presentation at USJ Symposium Day, April 18, 2018.
Pharmacy Journal of New England • Spring 2018
Ashley A. Bill, Christine Agudosi, Szollosi DE, Edafiogho IO, and Ghoneim OM. Synthesis and Characterization of Piperazino-enaminone as Novel Pro-inflammatory Mediator Suppressants. Poster presentation at American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS)-New England Regional Discussion Group, Farmington, CT, April 12, 2018. Szollosi DE, Junjiang Sun, Ghoneim OM, Ashley Bill, and Edafiogho IO. Anti-inflammatory activity of the piperazinoenaminone JODI-19 in vitro and in vivo. Poster presentation at American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS)New England Regional Discussion Group, Farmington, CT, April 12, 2018. Bassant Abou-Taleb & Nounou MI. The use of NIR in detecting inter-brand/ inter-batch differences of levothyroxine sodium tablets marketed in Egypt. Presented at Student Innovation and Research Conference for Arab Universities and Schools (SICRAUS – BAU), on March 27-28, 2018, at Beirut, Lebanon. C. Petrelis, Rudraiah S. Effect of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Inflammatory Gene Expression in HC-04 Cells. Poster Presentation, Symposium Day, University of Saint Joseph, April 18, 2018, West Hartford, CT. M. Valanca, Rudraiah S. Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT) Induced HMGB1 Expression in Human Hepatocyte Cell line, HC-04. Oral Presentation. Symposium Day, University
(NERDG) Annual meeting, April 12, 2018, Farmington, CT. R. Shamilov, Rudraiah S, and B. Aneskievich. Deficiency Of Anti-inflammatory Protein TNIP1 Reveals Its Control Over Cell Migration And Antimicrobial Gene Expression. Poster Presentation. Society of Toxicology Annual meeting, March 11-15, 2018, San Antonio, Texas. M. Valanca, C. Petrelis, S. Kumbar, Rudraiah S. Evaluation of Multi Walled Carbon Nanotube Induced Toxicity in Human Hepatocyte Cell line HC04. Poster Presentation. Society of Toxicology Annual meeting, March 11-15, 2018, San Antonio, Texas. B. Ferrigno, J. Moskow, Rudraiah S, M. Rajesh, S. Kumbar. Trans-differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Neuronal-like Phenotype. Poster Presentation. Student Research Day at UConn Health, CT, U.S. February 26, 2018. Jessica McAllister, Hillary Kuzaro. Faculty Sponsor: Sweezy M. Investigating the effects of imidooxy compound E49 in a breast cancer cell line. Poster presentation at USJ Symposium Day, West Hartford, CT on April 18, 2018. Jennifer Donato. Faculty Sponsor: Sweezy M. The role of RAD51 paralogs in the maintenance of genome stability. Poster presentation at USJ Symposium Day, West Hartford, CT on April 18, 2018.
of Saint Joseph, April 18, 2018, West Hartford, CT.
Invited Oral Presentations
J. Moskow, M. Rajesh, Rudraiah S, S. Kumbar. Electrical
Laskey D. Something Old, Something New: What the phar-
Stimulation Mediated Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation
macist needs to know about street drugs. Connecticut
for Nerve Regeneration. Poster Presentation. Frontiers in
Pharmacists Association Midwinter Conference. Southington,
Undergraduate Research, University of Connecticut, April 13,
CT. February 2018.
2018, Storrs, CT.
DeGennaro L. Expanding the role of the pharmacist in dia-
N. Sardashti, D. Ramos, Rudraiah S, S. Kumbar. Hybrid
betes care. Connecticut Pharmacists Association Midwinter
Skin Models for Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Product
Conference. Southington, CT. February 2018.
Evaluation: Design, Fabrication and Characterization. Poster Presentation. Frontiers in Undergraduate Research, University of Connecticut, April 13, 2018, Storrs, CT. M. Valanca, C. Petrelis, S. Kumbar, Rudraiah S. Multi Walled Carbon Nanotube- Induced High mobility group box-1 Expression in Human Hepatocyte Cell line HC04. Poster Presentation. American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) Northeast Regional Discussion Group
Olivia Kajda. Faculty Sponsor: Gayakwad S. Solubility enhancement of poorly water soluble drugs. Oral presentation at USJ Symposium Day, West Hartford, CT on April 18, 2018. Mahnoor Khan. Faculty Sponsor: Gayakwad S. Using DSC and HPLC in characterizing solid dispersion formulations for improving the solubility of poorly soluble drugs. Oral presen-
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From the Colleges
continued
tation at USJ Symposium Day, West Hartford, CT on April 18,
Myranda Williams and Sweezy M. Initial biochemical char-
2018.
acterization of the sws1/rlp1/ rdl1 protein complex in the
Diana Huynh. Faculty Sponsor: Sweezy M. Cloning expression and characterization of the RAD55/57 protein complex in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Oral presentation at USJ Symposium Day, West Hartford, CT on April 18, 2018.Veronika
regulation of rad51 catalyzed recombination in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Oral presentation at the Eastern Colleges Science Conference, Ithaca College, Ithaca, NY 14850, April 21, 2018.
Latawiec, Gayakwad S. Investigating the dissolution and
Burton A, Podoloff J. New Drug Update 2018. Senior
drug release kinetics of oral solid dosage forms of a poorly
Schwarting Symposium. Southington, CT. March 2018.
water soluble drug prepared from solid dispersion formulations. Oral Presentation. Symposium Day, University of Saint Joseph, April 18, 2018, West Hartford, CT. Kamila Orzechowski, Gayakwad S. A smart formulation strategy for enhancing solubility of poorly water soluble drugs. Oral Presentation. Symposium Day, University of Saint Joseph, April 18, 2018, West Hartford, CT. Zamzama Gafar, Slauson S. Diels-Alder reaction to synthesize
Laskey D. Medicinal Herbs in Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Umass. Worcester, MA. April 2018 Laskey D. Modern Drugs of Abuse. Massachusetts Pharmacists Association Spring Conference. Boston, MA. April 2018 Laskey D. Poisons and Antidotes. Bioblitz Day. University of Saint Joseph. West Hartford, CT. April 2018.
epibatidine analogs to examine the activity of the nicotinic
Leschak AL. Jordan MR. 21st Century Leadership: Embracing
receptor subtypes. Oral Presentation. Symposium Day,
your leadership superpowers. Kappa Psi Regional Meeting.
University of Saint Joseph, April 18, 2018, West Hartford, CT.
Hartford, CT April 2018
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