NCPA to Senate panel: Include pharmacists on chronic care teams

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) sent a letter to the Senate Finance Committee’s Chronic Care Working Group on Friday with proposals aimed at improving care and properly utilizing pharmacists. 

 

Principle among the recommendations was the NCPA’s call to include pharmacists on chronic care teams by expanding the independence at home model of care. Additionally, the organization encouraged the passage of the Pharmacy and Medically Underserved Areas Enhancement Act, which would give pharmacists provider status under Medicare Part B. Such a move, NCPA said, would allow pharmacists to carry out many services in medically underserved areas. 

 

“We are encouraged to see the Committee's commitment to advancing team-based care,” NCPA wrote. “Our recommendation is to include pharmacists as essential health care providers on chronic care teams and the designated lead in coordinating safe and effective medication management.”

 

NCPA also provided feedback on expanding prediabetes education and a study on medication synchronization programs.