Even though the Pharmacy Practice Act was passed a few years ago, there has been some confusion both in and outside New Jersey about the CDTM and Immunization programs.

Both the collaborative drug therapy management (NJSA 45:14-62) and the administration of drugs in immunization programs (NJSA 45:14-63b) require the adoption of regulations that have been promulgated by both the Board of Pharmacy and the Board of Medical Examiners. These regulations have been written and approved by both Boards but are in the review stage in both Newark and Trenton. Once these regulations clear this stage, they will be published for a 60 day comment period, followed by a review of the comments and, hopefully, publication for adoption.

1. S1195 Establishes pharmacy’s duty to fill prescriptions for in-stock drugs or devices
without delay, notwithstanding sincerely held moral, philosophical or religious beliefs of pharmacist.

6/11/2007 Passed Assembly (Passed Both Houses) (55-19-4)

a.
Pharmacist must obtain the product by the most expedited manner or
b.
Refer the patient to the nearest pharmacy, that is reasonably accessible, to obtain the product or device.
c.
Violations of this act may be reported to the Board of Pharmacy.
2. A1624 Establishes Prescription Monitoring Program in Division of Consumer Affairs and provides division with authority over registration and control of controlled dangerous substances

a.
Encompasses adding, deleting, or rescheduling substances as seen fit;
 
b. Registration requirements;

c. Appears to contain information that should be familiar to practitioners regarding dispensing, refill allowances, etc. but has provisions for additional monitoring parameters for uses and dispensing activities.

3. A1025 “Pharmacy Quality Improvement and Error Prevention Act” Commerce

a.
Development of the New Jersey Task Force On the Prevention of Medication Errors.

1) Purpose of the Task Force is to advise the Board of Pharmacy on education, reporting and recommendations to decrease medication related errors
b.
Establishment of Pharmacy Continuous Quality Improvement Programs.
c.
Describes appropriateness of filing reports on medications errors and protections from liability when performed per regulations.

With all of the new pressures and commitments associated with any new position, involvement in a professional organization probably doesn’t resonate high on the to-do list. But it should. What turns out to be a small investment in time, can transform into a valuable investment throughout the years. According to David R. Witmer, Pharm.D. and Vice President of Member Services for ASHP, “you can derive the greatest benefit by not just joining a community, but by becoming actively involved in its activities.”

Pharmacy organizations exist to serve the profession. Any organization’s success depends on the commitment of its members to serve and be change-agents vital to its continued success. As an example, ASHP changed its membership structure in response to the needs and requests of its members. Our own NJSHP exists to serve health-system pharmacy practitioners on the state and local level.
 
It’s here where the individual can have the fastest and most impact. It’s also here, the state and local level, where issues related to the profession will have the most impact on YOU!

Where’s the right opportunity for you? In my experience, and without stepping upon the proverbial “soapbox,” I’ve found that there are many ways to start. Through participation at regional meetings, educational sessions, quarterly student meetings, as a mentor, or among the valuable network of pharmacists, students, and technicians, you can easily bring a new idea, process or experience to the forefront. NJSHP has enjoyed solid leadership throughout the years and these leaders are always available to help and guide. Even the simple words “Can I help out with this…” will quickly put you on the road to greater involvement.

From a personal perspective, I can absolutely assure that getting and staying involved with NJSHP has been invaluable to me.
 
I’ve been fortunate to be the President-Elect and President of the Student chapter. I’ve had many chances to contribute directly including assisting in the development of the 2004 Annual Meeting, planning and participating in the annual Student chapter Halloween visit to the Children’s Hospital at St. Peter’s University Hospital, and serving as a judge for the 2007 NJSHP College Bowl. In addition to having had many opportunities I’ve been a recipient of good advice and friendships from both current and past NJSHP presidents and board members.

John A. Gans, Pharm.D. APhA, Executive Vice President and CEO in Pharmacy Today,(March 2007) states “We must take it upon ourselves to raise society’s awareness of pharmacists’ capabilities. To succeed, pharmacists must be leaders in their practices, the classroom, and our communities.”

Maximize your NJSHP experience and really get involved…no effort is too little!
         


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