Why I am running for APhA President
Challenge, Disrupt, and Inspire
As a profession we are witnessing history in the making. What I am talking about is the transformational change that we are experiencing in pharmacy. The “accepted” way of doing things is NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE and pharmacy personnel are not only pushing back but are refusing to take it any longer. This is occurring in many facets of our profession whether it be insufficient reimbursement for our professional services, not being recognized as providers, or unacceptable working conditions—we, as a collective whole, have decided to “take back our profession”. To see pharmacists challenging the existing system every day is encouraging and inspirational. Pharmacists are disrupting current and unfair payment models by creating and implementing models that bypass the traditional PBM systems. This includes subscription models, cash or direct pay practices, cost plus models, and concierge practices. In addition, they are embedding clinical services to ensure that patients are achieving their therapeutic outcomes with safe and effective medications. Additionally, pharmacy personnel are not only speaking out against unprofessional workplace conditions but are refusing to work in such practices. This has been misconstrued as a shortage of pharmacy personnel, but the real narrative is that there is not a shortage of pharmacy workers, just simply a revolt against working in these conditions. I am inspired by how we are challenging the status quo and demanding change.
The good news is that, as a profession, we are being heard and change is occurring. As we move forward, the disruption that we are creating is challenging as systems will change, how things were always done will fade away, and new opportunities will emerge. But all of us must engage and be part of the solution for change. The whole is stronger than the sum of its parts and this is true for pharmacy. We can change anything, we not only can take back our profession, but reshape it the way we believe we should be treated, recognized, and paid.
This is the reason why I applied to be slated for president of APhA. I am excited and humbled that I was slated as one of the candidates. My whole career has been an example of challenging the status quo, to push for adequate and fair reimbursement for our patient care services, to fight back against the unfair business practices of PBMs, and to create a brand of pharmacy practice that provides a meaningful career for all pharmacy personnel. I will continue to challenge and disrupt the status quo and I hope that my work inspires others to do the same. Thank you for your consideration.