ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 21, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) President, Sean M. Jeffery, PharmD, CGP, FASCP, has called on members to weigh-in on changing the name of the Society which, he said, would allow ASCP to be "better recognized as health care providers" and be "more understandable to the population we serve." Jeffery made the announcement at the 2013 Spring Conference + Exhibition in Orlando, Florida, May 14, 2013.
Noting that changing the Society's name has been debated for many years, he said the Board of Directors gave the go-ahead to explore a new name saying, "We are ready to act."
Jeffery called on members to give their input by completing a survey by June 10, 2013. "I want to give all our members an opportunity to provide feedback to the Board of Directors".
Jeffery said the board believes the best way for ASCP to succeed is to clearly articulate that its members care for seniors regardless of their care setting. One way to advance this goal is by changing the name to emphasize this.
"We know this decision is one that has significant repercussions," Jeffery said. "ASCP has a proud history and we are in no way running away from that." But, he added, "We want to provide you an association that is self-explanatory, and resonates will all those who provide care to seniors our patients. A name that creates a big-tent, welcoming organization. We don't want to turn people away or have them dissociate with ASCP because they don't see themselves as a consultant pharmacist."
ASCP has asked its members to complete an online survey. For additional information, contact info@ascp.com.
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.