Healthcare reform tops agenda at upcoming NACDS Pharmacy & Technology Conference

ALEXANDRIA, Va. Hailed as the industry’s most comprehensive technology and educational forum, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores will host its 52nd Annual Pharmacy & Technology Conference in Boston from Aug. 8 to 11. The conference is the largest gathering of retail pharmacy executives from drug, food and mass retailers and their supplier counterparts.

As healthcare reform remains a top priority in Washington and for the industry, a component of the business programs at this year’s Pharmacy and Technology Conference will focus on the critical role that pro-patient, pro-pharmacy policy plays in any healthcare reform package considered this year.

Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, a leader in healthcare policy expertise, will provide attendees with a picture of the current state of healthcare reform. NACDS President and CEO Steve Anderson, will discuss how NACDS is effectively engaging in healthcare reform both with lawmakers and the Administration. Andrew A. Giancamilli, CEO for Snyders Drug Stores, Inc. in North America, will discuss opportunities to advance the industry in the future.

There are more than 20 hours of the latest educational programming on the most important issues facing pharmacy practice today. This year’s education sessions will cover the latest on state-of-the-art pharmacy operations, practice and clinical issues, distribution, and marketing.  Session topics include healthcare reform, the continuously-evolving role of pharmacy, Medicaid reimbursement, Medicare Part D, and other critical issues currently facing chain pharmacies.

Back again after much success at last year’s conference, the “Meet the Rx Market” program will bring together retailers and suppliers of pharmacy products, services and technology solutions for a series of strategic business appointments.

Additionally, here will be two NACDS ECON 09 sessions during the conference. NACDS ECON 09 was developed by the industry and for the industry, with the recommendations of the NACDS Retail Advisory Board (RAB), earlier this year. The RAB, which advises the NACDS Board of Directors, includes representatives of NACDS Chain and Associate member companies. A presentation titled “The Economy...What is it and Where is it?” will be offered by Dr. Mark Zandi. It will highlight today’s economic crisis.  Douglas M. Long, VP industry relations for IMS Health, will also give an expert's view of the 2009 pharmaceuticals market and how evolving trends may impact the business.