Congressional Resolution Aims To Designate October As American Pharmacists Month (APhM)

Main Category: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 20 Sep 2008 - 0:00 PDT

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The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) applauds Rep. Marion Berry for introducing a House resolution (H.Res.1437) that would designate October as American Pharmacists Month (APhM). The resolution celebrates the many contributions made by pharmacists in all practice settings towards providing safe, affordable and beneficial medication therapy management services (MTM) for our Nation's citizens.

"APhA commends Berry, a fellow pharmacist, for introducing the resolution and for recognizing the important role of pharmacists in improving medication use and advancing patient care," said Dr. John A. Gans, APhA's executive vice president and chief executive officer.

During October, APhA will embark on a national, public education campaign themed "Know Your Medicine-Know Your Pharmacist." The campaign will urge consumers to partner with their pharmacist to optimize drug therapy.

"Pharmacists are front-line medical professionals who are often the first and only stop for individuals seeking medical advice," said Berry. "This resolution is a fitting tribute to pharmacists and their outstanding service to our communities across America."

APhA established National Pharmacy Week in 1925 to celebrate the contributions of the nation's pharmacists to America's health, and in October 2004, it launched American Pharmacists Month. National pharmacy associations, including the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, Accreditation Council for Pharmacy, American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, American College of Apothecaries, American College of Clinical Pharmacy, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Food Marketing Institute, National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, and National Community Pharmacists Association have joined APhA in its annual celebration.

View the text of the resolution.

About the American Pharmacists Association (APhA)

The American Pharmacists Association, founded in 1852 as the American Pharmaceutical Association, represents more than 63,000 practicing pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, student pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and others interested in advancing the profession. APhA, dedicated to helping all pharmacists improve medication use and advance patient care, is the first-established and largest association of pharmacists in the United States. APhA members provide care in all practice settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, managed care organizations, hospice settings, and the military.

American Pharmacists Association