[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 9 (Friday, January 13, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E67]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        NATIONAL PHARMACIST DAY

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                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 13, 2017

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
National Pharmacist Day, which celebrates the work of pharmacists 
across America.
  Pharmacists dedicate their lives to the health and wellbeing of their 
patients. They ensure their customers receive their medications 
properly and provide invaluable advice to those they serve.
  In particular, I'd like to recognize the independent and community 
pharmacists in Northeast Georgia and across the United States, who play 
an essential role in the rural health ecosystem. In fact, pharmacists 
serve as the primary point of contact with the healthcare system for 
over 62 million Americans today.
  Community pharmacists ensure that patients have access to affordable, 
lifesaving medications in rural areas throughout Georgia and across the 
United States. Often, these pharmacists are more than a face behind the 
counter--they are neighbors, friends, community leaders, and providers 
of advice and care. These local pharmacists live and work alongside 
their patients, building lasting relationships and regularly seeing 
their patients at church, school, and the grocery store. These strong 
relationships ensure quality care for patients, who bring their medical 
questions and concerns to their community pharmacist.
  I know from my own experience what a difference a trusted pharmacist 
can make.
  It is a privilege to thank and recognize pharmacists across our 
nation for their hard work today, on National Pharmacist Day. I will 
continue supporting our nation's pharmacists and working to ensure that 
patients have access to care from their local and community pharmacists 
for years to come.

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