American Pharmacists Association

American Pharmacists Association

The American Pharmacists Association (APhA), founded in 1852, is the first-established national professional society of pharmacists in the United States. It is a professional organization representing all pharmacy professionals in the United States, including pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and others involved in the field of pharmacy. The APhA is dedicated to advancing the profession of pharmacy, advocating for the role of pharmacists as essential in patient care, and improving medication use and outcomes by providing resources, education, and support to its members.

History

The American Pharmacists Association was established in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1852 by a group of pioneering pharmacists who were committed to advancing the profession. Since its inception, the APhA has played a crucial role in the development of pharmacy practice standards, the promotion of pharmacists as healthcare providers, and the advancement of pharmaceutical education.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the APhA is to empower its members to improve medication use and advance patient care. Its vision is to be the leading organization in pharmacy, advocating for the profession and its value in the healthcare system. The APhA strives to provide a voice for the profession, advocating for policies that enhance patient care and advance the role of pharmacists in the healthcare team.

Membership

Membership in the APhA is open to pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy students, as well as other healthcare professionals interested in the field of pharmacy. Members benefit from access to a wide range of resources, including continuing education programs, professional development opportunities, and the latest research and information on pharmacy practice and patient care.

Activities and Programs

The APhA offers a variety of activities and programs designed to support pharmacists in their professional development and to promote the role of pharmacists in patient care. These include:

• Continuing Education: The APhA provides a wide range of continuing education opportunities for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, including live events, online courses, and home study programs.
• Advocacy: The APhA advocates on behalf of the pharmacy profession, working to influence public policy and legislation that impacts pharmacy practice and patient care.
• Publications: The APhA publishes several professional journals and books, including the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association and the American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, which provide valuable information on the latest research and developments in the field of pharmacy.
• Annual Meeting and Exposition: The APhA hosts an annual meeting and exposition, which is one of the largest gatherings of pharmacy professionals in the world. The event features educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibition hall showcasing the latest products and services in pharmacy.

Impact on Pharmacy Practice

The American Pharmacists Association has had a significant impact on the practice of pharmacy in the United States. Through its advocacy efforts, the APhA has helped to expand the role of pharmacists beyond traditional dispensing functions to include more direct patient care activities, such as medication therapy management, immunizations, and health screenings. The organization's focus on education and professional development has also contributed to the advancement of pharmacy practice and the improvement of patient care outcomes.

See Also

• Pharmacy
• Pharmacist
• Pharmacy technician
• Medication therapy management
• Immunization