ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 14, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This week the American Society for Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) kicks off National Consultant Pharmacist Week 2013, by asking the public, "Do you know what a consultant pharmacist is?" Most people—including many of the 10,000 people who turn 65 years old each day—don't. A "consultant" or "senior care" pharmacist is an expert on the use of drug therapy by older adults. Coordinating with physicians and others, these uniquely trained professionals identify medication-related problems that can cause, aggravate, or contribute to common drug therapy problems in the elderly. They practice in a variety of settings, including the community and long-term care facilities.
The week-long observance of National Consultant Pharmacist Week, October 15-18, features a lineup of daily events. On October 15, participants are encouraged to spread the word about consultant and senior care pharmacists to the public and share ASCP's resources for finding a senior care pharmacist. ASCP has created a downloadable PDF infographic to illustrate the role of consultant pharmacists. On October 16, members and other consultant pharmacists will take to social media to share stories using hashtag #CPweek2013 about managing medications and improving the lives of seniors.
October 17 features Virtual Lobby Day, a coordinated effort of ASCP members to send online messages to their senators and representatives to educate them about the important role consultant pharmacists play in improving the American health care system.
The final day of National Consultant Pharmacy Week will be used to say thank you to all members of the health care team for their efforts in improving the quality of care for older adults and continued collaborations across the interdisciplinary team. Learn more at ascp.com/cpweek2013.
About the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)
The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists is the only international professional society devoted to optimal medication management and improved health outcomes for all older persons. ASCP's members manage and improve drug therapy and improve the quality of life of geriatric patients and other individuals residing in a variety of environments, including nursing facilities, sub-acute care and assisted living facilities, psychiatric hospitals, hospice programs, and home and community-based care.