Independent pharmacies may be smaller than big-box chains, but by joining forces, they can amplify their voices and get recognition on the national stage.
Pharmacy organizations — both big and small — unite pharmacy professionals, advocate on their behalf, and provide valuable resources and membership benefits.
If you haven’t already joined a pharmacy organization, this is your sign.
When you join a pharmacy organization, you can build new relationships, inspire growth in your independent pharmacy, and most importantly, stay innovative in an ever-changing industry.
And, of course, the membership perks never hurt anyone.
Unsure where to start? Keep reading to discover the benefits of joining pharmacy organizations and find a list of well-known organizations to start your search.
Benefits of Joining Pharmacy Organizations
Becoming a member of pharmacy groups can offer you new opportunities, provide fresh perspectives, and help you find your niche as a pharmacy professional.
Here are just a few of the ways it can benefit you:
- Add New Services: Go beyond the daily fill-and-bill. As a pharmacist, you can explore innovative programs and services. Connect with fellow pharmacists, learn about their practices, and get inspired to implement new ideas.
- Stay Up to Date with Legislation: Pharmacy organizations advocate for their members and the independent pharmacy industry. When you join a pharmacy organization, you’ll be the first to get notified about new developments in legislation and breaking industry news.
- Explore Continuing Education: Education doesn’t stop after the Pharm.D. In order to expand your knowledge and refine your skills, you have to find opportunities for continuing education. As a pharmacy organization member, you’ll have an ongoing selection of classes and webinars to gain CE credits and fine-tune your skills.
- Access Tools and Resources: To supplement their CE opportunities, many organizations provide you with a variety of tools and resources to help you in every aspect of your pharmacy operations — whether it’s adding a new service, refining an existing one, or growing your business.
- Get Membership Perks: Many organizations partner with other pharmacy vendors to get you discounts on a variety of products — just for being a member. So, when you join a pharmacy organization, you’ll also save yourself some cash.
- Build Your Network: Perhaps most importantly, pharmacy organizations give you the opportunity to meet other pharmacy professionals and build working relationships. This can lead to new initiatives for your pharmacy and — if you’re lucky — opportunities for collaboration.
10 Pharmacy Organizations You Should Consider Joining
1. National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
The National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) has been advocating for independent pharmacists since 1898.
It provides members with education and advocacy support with dozens of resources, like the Diabetes Prevention Program, Front-End Overhaul Program, Legislative Action Center, and a variety of conferences, namely its Annual Convention and Multiple Locations Conference.
It’s no wonder, then, that NCPA is one of the most well-respected pharmacy organizations.
2. Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network (CPESN)
The Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network (CPESN) “empowers pharmacists to move beyond traditional prescription filling by providing enhanced clinical services.”
Founded in 2014, CPESN focuses on improving patient outcomes and ensuring pharmacists are compensated for their clinical contributions
It supports pharmacies in delivering personalized care and expanding their role in the healthcare system.
3. American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
Founded in 1852, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is the largest professional organization for pharmacists in the United States.
It offers resources and support for pharmacists at every career stage and practice setting.
According to its website, APhA is dedicated to advancing the profession through advocacy, education, and professional development, helping pharmacists thrive.
4. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) was established in 1904 to support the state boards of pharmacy in protecting public health.
NABP provides a platform for state boards to collaborate on regulatory issues and promotes uniformity in pharmacy practice standards.
It acts as a valuable resource for locating your home state’s Board of Pharmacy and accessing important regulatory information.
5. National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS)
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) represents the interests of chain community pharmacies and suppliers.
Founded in 1933, NACDS advocates for public policy and industry standards that benefit chain pharmacies and their patients.
The organization provides members with networking opportunities, education, and resources to enhance their business operations and patient care.
6. Pharmacy Quality Alliance (PQA)
Established in 2006, the Pharmacy Quality Alliance (PQA) is committed to improving medication safety, adherence, and appropriate use through quality measures and initiatives.
PQA collaborates with stakeholders across the healthcare spectrum to develop and implement pharmacy performance measures.
In doing so, it aims to enhance patient care and optimize medication therapy outcomes.
7. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)
The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), founded in 1942, represents pharmacists who provide patient care in acute and ambulatory settings.
It offers education, advocacy, and resources to support pharmacists in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
8. National Association of Speciality Pharmacy (NASP)
The National Association of Specialty Pharmacy (NASP) was established in 2012 to serve as the unified voice for specialty pharmacies.
NASP offers specialty pharmacy certification, public policy advocacy, roundtable webinars, and job boards — and its marketplace, the NASP Marketplace, provides a list of discounts or benefits offered by NASP partners to NASP members.
9. National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA)
The National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) is the largest professional organization for pharmacy technicians, founded in 1999.
NPTA supports technicians through education, advocacy, and career development opportunities
The association is dedicated to advancing the role of pharmacy technicians and ensuring they receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Conclusion
When it comes to becoming a better pharmacist, there are few things you can do as valuable as joining a pharmacy organization.
From gaining access to the latest industry updates and educational resources to advocating for the profession and networking with other professionals, the benefits are clear.
Whether you're a community pharmacist, a pharmacy technician, or a specialist in a particular field, there's a pharmacy organization out there for you.
Your membership benefits your career and strengthens the pharmacy community. What are you waiting for? Find out how to join today.
