Congress targets crime against retailers with ‘Protect Your Pharmacy Week’

WASHINGTON Acknowledging the growing problem posed by crime against retail pharmacies, Congress has designated the week of April 13 to 17 as “Protect Your Pharmacy Week” in a bid to raise awareness of the issue.

The designation came in the U.S. House of Representatives from Rep. Michael McMahon, D-N.Y. McMahon sponsored a resolution recognizing the accelerating incidence of crime against retail pharmacies and the need for pharmacists in all practice settings to take steps to improve pharmacy safety and security.

The National Community Pharmacists Association strongly endorsed the move.

“On the anniversary of our ‘Protect Your Pharmacy Now!’ program, Congress bolsters our effort with [its] endorsement and designation of Protect Your Pharmacy Week,” said NCPA EVP and CEO Bruce Roberts. “This growing trend will only be met by vigilance and determination in the pharmacy community. Thank you to Congressman McMahon for keeping America’s patients’ safety at the forefront.”

Last year, NCPA joined with Purdue Pharma L.P., FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association, and the Community Pharmacy Foundation to create the “Protect Your Pharmacy Now!” initiative to combat pharmacy crime by improving pharmacy safety and security. The coalition created the concept of “Protect Your Pharmacy Week” to encourage pharmacists to protect themselves, staff and patients against pharmacy crime, including prescription drug theft, according to the NCPA.

During Protect Your Pharmacy Week, NCPA will launch a national campaign for independent pharmacy owners with resources and information aimed at bolstering pharmacy safety and security.