American Society of Consultant Pharmacists

American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)

The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of individuals residing in a variety of environments, including but not limited to long-term care facilities, assisted living communities, and other healthcare settings. The ASCP focuses on the role of consultant pharmacists in ensuring the appropriate use of medications and improving the quality of care for the elderly and other individuals with complex medication needs.

History

The ASCP was founded in 1969 in response to the growing need for pharmacists who specialize in the care of older adults, particularly those living in long-term care facilities. Since its inception, the ASCP has been at the forefront of advocating for the role of the consultant pharmacist as an integral member of the healthcare team, dedicated to optimizing medication therapy outcomes.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the ASCP is to empower pharmacists to promote healthy aging through the appropriate use of medications. The organization's vision is a world where older persons receive safe, effective, and personalized medication therapy.

Roles and Responsibilities

Consultant pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare system, particularly in settings that care for older adults. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive medication reviews to identify, resolve, and prevent medication-related problems.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop individualized care plans.
• Ensuring medication therapy is aligned with national guidelines and best practices.
• Educating patients and caregivers about medication use and safety.

Membership

Membership in the ASCP is open to pharmacists, pharmacy students, and other healthcare professionals who are committed to improving medication management and enhancing the quality of care for older adults. Members have access to a wide range of resources, including continuing education opportunities, professional development tools, and a network of peers dedicated to the field of geriatric pharmacotherapy.

Educational Programs and Resources

The ASCP offers a variety of educational programs and resources designed to support the professional development of consultant pharmacists and other healthcare professionals. These include:

• Annual conferences and symposiums that provide updates on the latest research, trends, and innovations in geriatric pharmacotherapy.
• Online courses and webinars on topics relevant to the care of older adults and the practice of consultant pharmacy.
• Publications, such as The Consultant Pharmacist journal, which features articles on clinical and regulatory issues affecting the practice of pharmacy in long-term care and other settings.

Advocacy

The ASCP is actively involved in advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels to advance the role of consultant pharmacists and improve the quality of care for older adults. This includes lobbying for legislation and regulations that support the safe and effective use of medications in long-term care, assisted living, and other healthcare settings.

See Also

• Pharmacy
• Geriatrics
• Medication therapy management
• Long-term care

External Links

• Official website of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists