APhA kicks off American Pharmacists month

WASHINGTON — The beginning of October also means the start of American Pharmacists Month, during which the American Pharmacists Association works to raise better awareness among patients, policy makers and stakeholders about the broad role of the pharmacist in America’s health care system.

The efforts around American Pharmacists Month encourages communities to “Know Your Pharmacist — Know Your Medicine” and highlight the services that pharmacists provide that go beyond dispensing medication — from immunizations and medication reviews to adherence efforts and disease state counseling.

American Pharmacists Month will see APhA participating in various activities that include social media campaigns and a Capitol Hill health Fair on Oct. 11, at which members of Congress, their staff and the general public can get flu shots and health screenings, including bone density, glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure and body composition tests. Other highlights include Selfie Day on Oct. 4, during which pharmacists and student pharmacists are encouraged to share a photo of themselves with #APhMSelfieDay, and Pharmacy Technician Day on Oct. 17.

The organization also has created a resource area on its website to help with activity planning, including tips on outreach and message, as well as ideas to inspire activities and events.