Advancing the Adoption of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in the United States

Over the last four decades, the expanded patient care roles of pharmacists in the United States (U.S.) have increased focus on ensuring the implementation of processes to enhance continuing professional development within the profession. The transition from a model of continuing pharmacy education (CPE) to a model of continuing professional development (CPD) is still evolving. As pharmacists assume more complex roles in patient care delivery, particularly in community-based settings, the need to demonstrate and maintain professional competence becomes more critical. In addition, long-held processes for post-graduate education and licensure must also continue to adapt to meet these changing needs. Members of the pharmacy profession in the U.S. must adopt the concept of CPD and implement processes to support the thoughtful completion of professional development plans. Comprehensive, state-of-the-art technology solutions are available to assist pharmacists with understanding, implementing and applying CPD to their professional lives

White paper on expanding the role of pharmacists in caring for individuals with Alzheimer\u27s disease

Objective: The purpose of this initiative was to establish a Coordinating Council to Improve Collaboration in Supporting Patients with Alzheimer\u27s Disease. The Council convened on March 5-6, 2008, in Washington, DC. The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) Foundation, in conjunction with leading national experts in Alzheimer\u27s disease (AD), assessed the level of care and services currently provided by pharmacists to AD patients and developed this blueprint document for how they might be more effective in helping patients and family caregivers manage the burden of this devastating disease. Data source: A premeeting survey of Council members was conducted to elicit their perceptions regarding the needs and challenges facing AD patients and their family caregivers and to gain insights as to what roles pharmacists could and should be playing to help manage drug therapy and enhance the quality of life in patients with AD. Summary: AD is one of the most significant health crises that will be faced in the United States over the next 30 years. Currently, it is the sixth leading cause of death in the country. The findings of the Council confirmed that pharmacists are playing important roles in the management of AD but can expand these roles. Conclusion: Pharmacists are accessible, trusted, and respected resources. Increased pharmacist involvement in the care of individuals with AD could improve clinical outcomes and family caregiver quality of life. With the expected increase in the number of individuals diagnosed with AD, the resources and services to care for and support this population will be even further taxed. Innovative approaches for expanding pharmacist involvement in AD should be developed to maximize the difference pharmacists can make in the lives of those who suffer from the disease