[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 140 (Thursday, October 8, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S11961]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     COMMEMORATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL COMMUNITY 
                        PHARMACISTS ASSOCIATION

  Mr. DASCHLE. Mr. President, today I want to congratulate the National 
Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) as its 100th anniversary 
approaches. One of the Nation's leading membership organizations--
representing some 30,000 independent pharmacies across the United 
States--NCPA will celebrate its 100th anniversary on October 17th. It 
is an honor to celebrate this landmark with NCPA and recognize 
professionals who truly exemplify high quality, patient-focused health 
care.
  Throughout its 100 years of service, NCPA has been a respected voice 
in the public policy arena--not only as a highly effective advocate for 
community pharmacists, but as the link to individual pharmacists with 
the demonstrated expertise and front-line experience required to help 
evaluate policy options.
  I'd like to take a few moments to recognize the enormous 
contributions of the men and women NCPA represents: local, community 
pharmacists. They play a critical role in our nation's health care 
delivery system through careful drug monitoring services, personalized 
service, coordination with other health providers and services, and 
community-oriented care.
  Each year, millions of Americans purchase prescription and non-
prescription medications at their local pharmacy, where an on-site 
pharmacist can help them select the medication that is most appropriate 
and prevent harmful drug interactions. Pharmacists have the experience 
and expertise to help consumers face an intimidating array of 
medication options. They prevent the wasteful spending and pain and 
suffering associated with drug complications.
  Community pharmacists provide personalized care, and offer a 
friendly, neighborhood presence for individuals facing illness and 
disease. An NCPA membership survey shows that 98 percent of independent 
pharmacists counsel patients face-to-face on prescription medications 
and make recommendations on over-the-counter drugs and general health 
care issues, and 97 percent maintain patient profiles. As more drugs 
are offered through the mail and without the opportunity to meet 
personally with a pharmacist, community pharmacists provide reassurance 
and inspire the confidence of those they serve.
  Community pharmacists play a crucial role in local health care 
delivery systems, by coordinating with other health professionals, 
promoting public health, and educating consumers on pharmaceutical and 
health issues. Many independent pharmacists report meeting regularly 
with local physicians on drug therapy and pharmacy services. In 
addition, they educate and assist their customers with the management 
of ongoing and chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
  Independent community pharmacies are primarily family businesses, and 
they have roots in America's communities. They are owned by civic 
leaders who are actively involved in a variety of community-oriented 
public health, civic, and volunteer projects. Many hold local elected 
or appointed offices. Public service and commitment to community are 
hallmarks of independent pharmacy.
  For all of these reasons, it is my pleasure to pay tribute to 
independent, community pharmacists and the organization that represents 
them. Through integrity, expertise and tenacity in the face of dramatic 
changes in our health care system, community pharmacists have inspired 
the confidence and trust of millions of Americans. Our Nation is truly 
well served by them.

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