[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 150 (Tuesday, October 20, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2252-E2253]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     COMMEMORATING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL COMMUNITY 
                        PHARMACISTS ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 20, 1998

  Mr. BERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National 
Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) on its 100th anniversary this 
month and to commend the organization for the work they do on behalf of 
independent pharmacies across the country. The NCPA represents the 
pharmacist owners, managers, and employees of nearly 30,000 independent 
community pharmacies. Independent pharmacists--more than 75,000 
nationwide--dispense the majority of the nation's retail prescription 
drugs.
  Independent pharmacists have a tremendous responsibility that is of 
increasing importance. Patients continue to rely more and more on their 
community pharmacist for good advice on which medication will help 
them. With many patients visiting the pharmacy more often than their 
doctor, community pharmacists continue to use their knowledge when 
telling consumers the pros and cons to these products. Ninety-eight 
percent of our community pharmacists make recommendations on over-the-
counter drugs and general health care issues. Their expertise is 
imperative to the health of millions of people across this country and 
I commend them for a job well done.
  Community pharmacists are truly working for the well-being of 
patients across the country and I am proud to work with them. The 
National Community Pharmacists continue to play a role in the lives of 
millions of Americans and I congratulate them on their 100th 
anniversary.

[[Page E2253]]



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