Introducing: Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp – Building the Backbone of Pharmacy Excellence

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, pharmacy technicians play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medications to patients. Their work is the linchpin in the pharmacy’s operations, making them an integral part of the healthcare ecosystem. However, to become proficient in this demanding profession, aspiring pharmacy technicians require the right training and education. That’s where freeCE’s Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp comes into the picture.

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In this blog post, we’ll explore the critical role that pharmacy technicians play in the healthcare system and why it’s essential for them to receive high-quality training. We’ll also dive deep into the details of the Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp, a program designed to equip new pharmacy technicians with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their profession. Let’s embark on this journey to discover why pharmacy technicians are indispensable and how the Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp can set them up for success.

 

The Vital Role of Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians are the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure that patients receive the right medications at the right time. They are essential in various healthcare settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and more. Here’s why they are indispensable:

Medication Management: Pharmacy technicians are responsible for accurately dispensing medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. They must ensure that the right medication is provided in the correct dosage, with proper labeling and instructions.

Patient Safety: Medication errors can have serious consequences. Pharmacy technicians are the first line of defense against such errors, meticulously cross-referencing prescriptions and verifying patient information to guarantee safe and effective medication use.

Support for Pharmacists: Pharmacists have a multitude of responsibilities, and pharmacy technicians alleviate their workload by handling administrative tasks, managing inventory, and ensuring the pharmacy’s smooth operation.

Patient Interaction: Pharmacy technicians often interact directly with patients, answering questions and providing excellent customer service. They serve as a bridge between patients and pharmacists.

Compliance with Regulations: Pharmacy practice is highly regulated, with strict laws and guidelines in place. Pharmacy technicians must be well-versed in these regulations to maintain compliance and protect patient privacy.

 

The Need for High-Quality Training

Given the critical role pharmacy technicians play in patient care, it’s evident that their training and education must be of the highest quality. Quality training ensures that pharmacy technicians are well-prepared to meet the demands of their profession. Here are some reasons why top-notch training is crucial:

• Patient Safety: As mentioned earlier, medication errors can have serious consequences. Quality training equips pharmacy technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to minimize errors and enhance patient safety.
• Regulatory Compliance: Pharmacy practice is subject to a myriad of regulations, from controlled substances management to patient privacy laws. High-quality training ensures that pharmacy technicians are well-versed in these regulations, reducing the risk of legal and ethical breaches.
• Professionalism: The healthcare industry demands professionalism, and pharmacy technicians are no exception. Training programs instill professional values, ethics, and communication skills that are crucial for success in the field.
• Career Advancement: High-quality training is often a prerequisite for career advancement. Whether aiming for certification or pursuing further education, a strong educational foundation is essential.

 

Introducing: Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp

Now that we understand the pivotal role of pharmacy technicians and the importance of quality training, it’s time to introduce freeCE’s Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp. This program has been developed with the goal of providing aspiring pharmacy technicians with the knowledge and skills they need to enter the profession successfully.

Key Features of the Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp:

• PTCB Recognition: The program has received recognition from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), a stamp of quality and credibility that sets it apart in the field.
• 12-Week Quick Start: Unlike many other pharmacy technician training programs that span over 18 weeks or longer, our Bootcamp offers an accelerated 12-week journey to prepare you for a successful career.
• Highly Curated Content: The program’s content has been meticulously curated to ensure that you become an invaluable asset to your future pharmacy team from day one.
• Developed by Experts: The course content has been developed by experts with real-life experience, ensuring that it reflects the real-world needs of the profession.
• Suitable for All Settings: Whether you’re aiming for a career in a small, independent pharmacy or a large retail chain, the Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in any setting.

 

The Bootcamp Modules

The Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp comprises several modules, each designed to provide you with a comprehensive education in pharmacy practice:

Module 1: Intro to Pharmacy

• Trace the history and evolution of pharmacy practice
• Explore different pharmacy career tracts
• Discuss pharmacy communication and customer service

 

Module 2: Medications

• Dive into the basics of pharmacology
• Learn about dosage forms and routes of administration
• Understand specific classes of medications

 

Module 3: Pharmacy Laws and Regulations

• Explore key laws and regulations governing pharmacy practice
• Delve into regulations related to controlled substances, patient privacy, and record-keeping

 

Module 4: Medication Safety

• Learn about the risks associated with medication errors
• Understand steps to reduce the risk of medication errors and enhance patient safety

 

Module 5: Pharmacy Skills

• Develop essential skills like prescription interpretation, order entry and processing, nonsterile compounding, and inventory management

 

Module 6: Calculations and Critical Thinking

• Master pharmacy calculations, a critical part of your knowledge base
• Learn to convert units, calculate doses, and ensure accurate medication preparation

 

Top 250 Drugs

• Familiarize yourself with the most commonly prescribed and dispensed drugs
• Practice your knowledge with quizzes and ensure mastery of the drug list

 

Why Choose Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp

One of the standout features of the Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp is its 12-week duration, which is significantly quicker than other programs that often extend to 18 weeks or more. This accelerated timeline allows you to enter the profession sooner, jump-start your new career, and start making a difference in the healthcare industry.

The Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp is offered in an on-demand format, allowing you to complete your training at your own pace and on your own schedule. Plus, it’s an affordable option.

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician? Or are you an employer looking to streamline your team’s training and cut costs? The Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp is the answer you’ve been looking for.

In a world where healthcare is constantly evolving, pharmacy technicians are indispensable, and high-quality training is the key to success, Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp is your fast track to becoming a proficient pharmacy technician. 

Learn More About Pharmacy Technician Bootcamp

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BENEFITS OF RECEIVING A MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT SPECIALTY CERTIFICATE FROM FREE CE

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) is critical for safe and optimal patient care. MTM is a range of services that help patients benefit most from their medications. MTM includes a comprehensive review of all prescription and over-the-counter medications and any herbal supplements the patient is taking. Once this information is obtained, a plan is developed to provide the patient with education and advice to ensure proper medication use. In addition, there is collaboration between the patient and their healthcare team to develop goals for optimal medication therapy.  

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BENEFITS OF RECEIVING A MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT SPECIALTY CERTIFICATE FROM FREECE 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that medication non-adherence results in 30 to 50 percent of failures in chronic disease management. In addition, roughly 125,000 annual deaths can be attributed to patients’ failure to follow their medication instructions. The World Health Organization (WHO) created the Medication Without Harm initiative in response to unsafe medication practices and errors being a leading cause of preventable harm worldwide. The WHO estimated the global cost of medication errors at $42 billion annually.   

In 2017, the Use of pharmacy technicians in elements of medication therapy management delivery: A systematic review was published in the Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy (RSAP) journal. The authors concluded that providing standardized training for pharmacy technicians in medication reconciliation could help optimize MTM. That being said, pharmacy technicians need to complete MTM education to provide the best care for their patients.  

 

PTCB Recognized Medication Therapy Management Certification

The Pharmacy Technician Enhanced Training: Medication Therapy Management course is recognized by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). To achieve this recognition, courses are reviewed and are found to provide the learner with foundational knowledge that will help them be successful on PTCB exams. Taking PTCB-recognized courses gives you the peace of mind that you are purchasing a quality product that will benefit your professional practice as a pharmacy technician.  

 

WHAT YOU GET FROM THE PHARMACY TECHNICIAN ENHANCED TRAINING: MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT COURSE 

 Our Pharmacy Technician Enhanced Training: Medication Therapy Management course consists of eight modules, including enrollment and service delivery, interviewing techniques, medication list development, claims submission, patient follow-up, and more. This course is customized for pharmacy techs to provide the knowledge needed to serve your patients best.  

The Pharmacy Technician Enhanced Training: Medication Therapy Management course presents medication therapy management through straightforward instruction. We make learning the fundamentals of MTM engaging with an expert instructor, industry-specific knowledge, and lessons you can access anywhere, anytime, on any device with internet access.  

Our unique approach to pharmacy education has made freeCE the industry standard and a favorite learning resource among pharmacy technicians. 

 

PHARMACY TECHNICIAN ENHANCED TRAINING – MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW 

• Discover your role in MTM. 
• Foundational MTM knowledge. 
• Custom modules taught by an expert. 
• Made for pharmacy technicians. 
• Affordable specialist certificate. 
• Instantly downloadable certificate upon completion. 
• Earn 9.5 hours of CE. The course meets CE requirements from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). 
• The course is accredited by the Accreditation Council For Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and meets all state and national requirements. 
• Instant CE reporting to accrediting bodies allows you to apply your hours as soon as you complete the course. Compatible with CPE Monitor from the NABP and CE Broker. 

 

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN THIS COURSE? 

MODULE 1 – INTRODUCTION TO MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT 

• Foundational knowledge of the Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 related to Medication Therapy Management programs. 
• Define the CMS requirements for offering MTM programs as part of Medicare Part D plans. 
• Discuss the populations targeted for MTM services, such as those with multiple chronic diseases or taking multiple medications. 

 

MODULE 2 – MTM ENROLLMENT AND SERVICE DELIVERY 

• Explore the CMS requirements for Medicare Part D programs to offer MTM services. 
• Introduce the Core Elements of MTM services to provide the learner with the MTM service’s steps. 
• Review which MTM service components may be completed by a Pharmacy Technician. 

 

MODULE 3 – CORE ELEMENTS OF MTM SERVICE AND DOCUMENTATION 

• Further explore the Core Elements of MTM Service as each element is broken down and discussed in detail. 
• Review the documentation requirements for each Core Element. 

• Discuss the importance of using patient-friendly terminology. 
• Explore examples and practice scenarios guided by the AHRQ Health Literacy Tool for Providers of MTM. 

 

MODULE 4 – MEDICATION REVIEW APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING AND PREPARATION 

• Identifying eligible patients for MTM service and scheduling them to receive their respective services. 
• Explore how patients are identified within the MTM service billing platforms and when patients can be scheduled for services by pharmacy personnel.  
• Identify the appropriate steps for contacting patients to schedule services. 
• Review best practices and requirements for the space used for the MTM service appointment. 

 

MODULE 5 – PATIENT INTERVIEW TECHNIQUES AND MEDICATION HISTORY 

• Discuss the patient interview and medication history. 
• Define key terms such as medication adherence, intolerance, allergy, social history, and medical condition. 
• Compare pharmacists’ and pharmacy technicians’ roles in patient interviews and medication history processes. 
• Discuss the importance of active listening since, aside from documentation, the pharmacy technician’s role can be very impactful in the medication review. 

 

MODULE 6 – PERSONAL MEDICATION LIST DEVELOPMENT AND PATIENT PROFILE UPDATE 

• Developing the Personal Medication List (PML) and updating the patient’s profile during a Comprehensive Medication Review. 
• Review required documentation on the PML, including which drugs must be listed. 
• Understand the necessity to document medication strengths/dose, dosage forms, routes of administration, frequency and duration of therapy, and drug administration instructions. 
• Cover the requirements around documenting all oral and non-oral prescription and non-prescription therapies. 

 

MODULE 7 – MEDICATION-RELATED PROBLEMS AND INTERVENTIONS 

• Define common medication-related problems and prescribing errors and explain their impact.  
• Explore what information the pharmacist may review to identify interventions and recommendations about the patient’s drug therapy.  
• Discuss legal limitations for pharmacy technicians when providing education and counseling to the patient. 

 

MODULE 8 – POST-MEDICATION REVIEW DOCUMENTATION, SUBMISSION, AND FOLLOW-UP 

• Discuss how the pharmacist creates the Medication Action Plan (MAP) by compiling information and data gathered throughout the review process and creating intervention claims. 
• Focus on claim submissions for Comprehensive and Targeted Medication Reviews, the information required for each type of claim submission, and the importance of having a tracking system throughout the MTM service process.  
• Explore potential metrics that can be used to measure the success of a pharmacy’s MTM program. 

 

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE FREE CE 

Our unique approach to pharmacology education has made freeCE the industry standard and a favorite learning resource among pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. 

• Live CE webinars are available multiple times throughout the day, so you can easily complete your required live education programs at home and on your schedule. 
• Convenient CE access and on-demand course options. Content is available on your phone, tablet, or computer, allowing you to earn CE wherever you are.  
• Credly Badge – Show off your specialty! Use this awesome badge to show what specialties you have on social media. Collect all the Credly Badges with freeCE. 
• Live, personal customer support is available via webchat. 

 

GET STARTED 

Enroll in the Pharmacy Technician Enhanced Training: Medication Therapy Management course today to gain one year of unlimited access to the course and learn the basics of medication therapy management to better help you understand your role in MTM for your patients.  

 

Medication Therapy Management Certificate

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Overview of Lyme Disease, What Pharmacy Workers Need To Know

This time of the year on most days in the pharmacy, we get doxycycline prescriptions for Lyme disease. I always ask the patient what their diagnosis is, and if they mention Lyme disease or ticks, I steer them to our Permethrin spray.  Most patients are terrified of Lyme disease and are happy to purchase a product that will protect them.

A lot of deer and turkey hunters tell me there is no scent, and the wild game cannot detect the spray.  Most of the outdoorsmen, fishermen and hunters, have a real respect for Ixodes scapularis and frequent apply the permethrin to their hunting and fishing garb.  We just need to get the gardeners and picnickers on board!

Just this month, I would like the prescribers who read this column and the pharmacists who dispense the antibiotics to recommend this amazing product to the people that come to the clinic or pharmacy with an antibiotic to treat Lyme disease.

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LYME DISEASE

In my home state of Pennsylvania, we love our sports teams. The Eastern Side of the state has the Phillies, Eagles and Flyers; the western side has the Pirates, Steelers, and Penguins.  These teams over the years have been “number#1” in their respective sports.  The whole state has its “number #1” stats, for the past 12 years, leading the nation in number cases of Lyme disease.  We are in the heat of summer, and everyone is headed to the great outdoors either for picnics, hiking, camping and even less enjoyable, gardening and mowing the lawn! 

We have had a very mild winter and a wet spring, which leads to increases in the tick population.  There are as many as 3 million cases per year, and there won’t be a letdown this summer.  Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States.

Many of our patients are presenting to our pharmacies/offices with questions about Lyme disease.

CAUSE

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans, which typically appears 3-30 days after the tick bite.

THE RASH

The erythema migrans rash associated with Lyme disease may occur anywhere on the body and is observed in approximately 70 to 80 percent of infected individuals. This distinctive rash typically begins at the site of a tick bite, manifesting after a delay of 3 to 30 days, with an average onset of about 7 days. The rash gradually expands over a period of days, reaching up to 12 inches or more (30 cm) across. While it may feel warm to the touch and is rarely itchy or painful. As the rash progresses patients may observe a target or “bull’s-eye” appearance.

 

PREVENTION

When venturing into tick-prone areas, it’s advisable to take preventive measures such as wearing high socks, long pants, and long-sleeve lightweight shirts, preferably in white or very light colors for easier tick detection. Walking in the center of trails and avoiding tall grasses in fields and meadows can minimize exposure. Regularly check legs and feet for ticks, especially nymphal ticks that are as small as a poppy seed, using bright light and a magnifying glass if needed. It’s important to check each other, especially in hard-to-see areas and skin folds. For pets, incorporate preventive measures like using tick-killing shampoo on a scheduled basis and brushing them daily outdoors to reduce the risk of tick bites inside the house.

 

INSPECTION

After returning indoors from tick-infested areas, taking prompt action can reduce the risk of tick bites. Bathing or showering within two hours helps wash off and facilitates the discovery of crawling ticks. A thorough tick check is essential, using a hand-held or full-length mirror to inspect all parts of the body. For children, parents should pay extra attention to areas like under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between the legs, around the waist, and particularly in their hair. Additionally, it’s crucial to examine gear and pets, as ticks can be transported into the home on clothing and pets, later attaching to individuals. To eliminate any remaining ticks, tumble clothes in a dryer on high heat for an hour.

 

TICK REMOVAL

When removing a tick, it’s important to use tweezers and a magnifying glass for precision. Wearing gloves, position the tweezers on the tick’s head as close to the skin as possible. Pull the tick out slowly, steadily, and in an upward motion, avoiding twisting, squeezing, jerking, or crushing. Preserve the tick in a jar or vial. After removal, clean the site with soap and water. Avoid using matches, petroleum jelly, gasoline, kerosene, or nail polish remover for removal. It’s worth noting that testing ticks for B. burgdorferi, the bacterium causing Lyme disease, is not recommended, as the presence of the bacterium in ticks doesn’t reliably predict infection in humans.

 

INSECT REPELLANTS

DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide): Patients should choose repellents containing 20 to 30% DEET. Apply repellents on both exposed skin and clothing to provide lasting protection for several hours. Adhere to product instructions diligently. Parents should be responsible for applying these products to their children, ensuring avoidance of hands, eyes, and the mouth.

 

Permethrin

Utilize products containing permethrin for treating clothing. Apply products with 0.5% permethrin to clothing and gear such as boots, pants, socks, and tents. This protective treatment persists through multiple washings. Permethrin is available over the counter (OTC) as a solution for application to clothing under brands like Sawyer Clothing Insect Repellent, Ranger Ready, or Repel Clothing and Gear. Once applied, it remains effective for up to 6 weeks, even after several launderings. This is particularly beneficial for clothes exposed to tick-infested areas and is effective against ticks carrying Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Apply the repellent outdoors, prior to wearing the clothing; hang the clothing, spray, and allow it to dry for two hours (four in humid conditions).

 

Permethrin For Pets

Permethrin spray at a concentration of 0.5% is demonstrated to be safe for dogs. Begin spraying at the tail and proceed forward until the entire body is covered. This application of permethrin on your dog proves effective in controlling fleas and lice for 35 days and ticks for 6 weeks. Ensure to cover the dog’s legs and underbelly and fluff the hair with your hand to ensure the spray reaches beyond the fur to the skin. It’s essential to note that permethrin should not be used on felines (cats) or any aquatic animals, as it can be toxic to them.

 

Pharmacological Prophylaxis of Lyme disease

The Infectious Disease Society of America recommends prophylaxis for a tick bite only under specific conditions. This includes identifying the attached tick as an adult or nymphal deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) and estimating that the tick has been attached for 36 or more hours, as it takes at least 36 hours for the tick to transmit the spirochete. Additionally, the antibiotic should be administered within 72 hours of tick removal. Prophylaxis for a tick bite should only be used when the local tick infection rate with B. burgdorferi is equal to or greater than 20 percent. It’s crucial to ensure that Doxycycline is not contraindicated, and it should not be given to pregnant, nursing, or pediatric patients. The recommended dose is Doxycycline 100mg (2 tablets) daily as a single dose with food, with a dispensation of #2 tablets.

 

Pharmacological Treatment of Lyme disease

The initial sign of infection typically manifests as a circular rash known as erythema migrans (EM), appearing in around 70-80% of infected individuals. This rash emerges at the site of a tick bite after a delay of 3-30 days. A distinctive feature is its gradual expansion over several days, reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. The center may clear, resulting in a bull’s-eye appearance. While it may feel warm, it is not usually painful.

Some patients may develop additional EM lesions in different body areas. For early erythema migrans, treatment options include Doxycycline (Vibra-tab) 100mg twice daily for 14-21 days (avoid if pregnant), Amoxicillin (Amoxil) 500mg three times daily for 14-21 days, Cefuroxime (Ceftin) 500mg twice daily for 14-21 days, or Erythromycin (Ery-tab) 250mg four times daily for 14-21 days. Notably, 10 days of treatment may be as effective as 20 days.

Since pharmacists are indeed the “drug experts” as well as the “cost experts” consider the following:

• I prefer to use doxycycline tablets due to the choking hazard of the capsules.  Some European countries ban capsules for this reason.  I have had two students in my class say they had esophageal burns due to capsules getting stuck in the throat. Remember to avoid doxycycline in children whose teeth are not fully erupted.
• Amoxicillin is equally effective as doxycycline, but it needs to be dosed three times a day.  Best option for pediatrics and pregnant women. Amoxicillin should NOT be used for prophylaxis (as doxycycline is).  Amoxicillin might also be a better choice for patients who experience photosensitivity on previous doxycycline therapy.

Have a great day on the bench!!

References:

Coburn J, Garcia B, Hu LT, et al. Lyme Disease Pathogenesis. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2021;42:473-518. doi:10.21775/cimb.042.473

Skar GL, Simonsen KA. Lyme Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; November 15, 2023.

Radolf JD, Strle K, Lemieux JE, Strle F. Lyme Disease in Humans. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2021;42:333-384. doi:10.21775/cimb.042.333

Bratton RL, Whiteside JW, Hovan MJ, Engle RL, Edwards FD. Diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease. Mayo Clin Proc. 2008;83(5):566-571. doi:10.4065/83.5.566

Zhou G, Xu X, Zhang Y, et al. Antibiotic prophylaxis for prevention against Lyme disease following tick bite: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis. 2021;21(1):1141. Published 2021 Nov 8. doi:10.1186/s12879-021-06837-7

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Naloxone: The Lifesaving Antidote for Opioid Overdose

The United States faces a substantial public health challenge due to opioid misuse and overdoses. In 2018, there were around 46,802 deaths related to opioids. In response to this crisis, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) introduced a “5-Point Strategy to Combat the Opioid Crisis” in April 2017.

One key aspect of this strategy involves broadening access to naloxone, a medication designed to reverse opioid overdoses. Naloxone, often referred to as the “miracle drug,” has emerged as a powerful and lifesaving tool in the fight against opioid overdose. In this article, we’ll explore what naloxone is, how it works, and its crucial role in reversing the deadly effects of opioid overdoses.

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Understanding Naloxone:

Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors in the brain that opioids latch onto. However, naloxone’s action is quite the opposite – it rapidly displaces opioids from these receptors, essentially reversing their effects. This reversal can restore normal breathing patterns and consciousness in individuals experiencing an opioid overdose.

 

How Naloxone Works:

When opioids, such as heroin or prescription painkillers, are consumed in excessive amounts, they can overwhelm the respiratory center in the brain, leading to slowed or stopped breathing. Naloxone counteracts this respiratory depression by binding to opioid receptors, blocking the opioids, and restoring normal breathing. Administered in a timely manner, naloxone can be the difference between life and death.

 

Forms of Naloxone:

Naloxone is available in various formulations:

1. Injectable Naloxone:

   • Administered via intramuscular injection or intranasal spray, injectable naloxone is commonly used by healthcare professionals and first responders.

2. Auto-Injectors:

   • User-friendly auto-injectors are designed for easy administration. These devices provide step-by-step instructions, making them accessible to individuals without medical training.

3. Nasal Spray:

   • Narcan, a nasal spray formulation of naloxone, offers a non-invasive and user-friendly option for bystanders and family members to administer in emergency situations.

 

Naloxone Accessibility:

Reports have shown that overdoses are typically witnessed by people who are willing to provide assistance. This presents an increased chance for the distribution of naloxone and the implementation of other harm reduction strategies. These initiatives hold the potential to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with opioid misuse. Recognizing the critical need for naloxone in community settings, many jurisdictions have implemented strategies to increase its availability.

 

Naloxone, With or Without A Prescription

Some states in the U.S. offer naloxone without a prescription, allowing individuals, family members, and friends to obtain it from pharmacies. This places pharmacists at a key role both in prescribing and dispensing naloxone and in counseling patients and their loved ones about the safety surrounding opioids and the use of naloxone.

Many states have implemented legislation broadening the scope of practice for pharmacists, allowing them to expedite access to naloxone without requiring a patient-specific prescription. This is often achieved through standing orders or collaborative practice agreements. One article examined the effects of Pharmacist Prescribing Authority (PPA) and Naloxone Access Laws (NAL) in increasing access and availability of naloxone. This article showed that PPA-NALs correlated with a statistically notable rise in the dispensing of naloxone in outpatient settings, estimating an average increase of 1324 dispensed naloxone prescription per state per year.

This translates to a yearly increase of 67,524 dispensed naloxone prescriptions. This upswing in dispensed naloxone prescription has the potential to lead to numerous overdose reversals, ultimately saving lives.

 

Training and Education:

While naloxone is a powerful tool, its effectiveness is maximized when coupled with proper training. Community programs and healthcare providers offer training sessions on recognizing opioid overdoses, administering naloxone, and accessing emergency medical services. Empowering individuals with this knowledge can save lives in emergency situations.

 

Pharmacists & Verifying Prescriptions of Naloxone

Pharmacists play a role in verifying prescriptions, allowing them to make careful considerations of the dose, strength, and quantity of the opioid for the patient. Effective collaboration and communication with health care providers on the dispensing of opioids such as avoiding extended-release formulations in an opioid naïve patient are important measures pharmacists can take.

Furthermore, understanding Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME) is crucial for pharmacists due to its role in standardizing opioid dosages and assessing the potency of various opioid medications. MME allows pharmacists to convert and compare opioid doses, providing a common metric for different opioids, as they vary in potency.

Children experience a high rate of overdoses, making it imperative to educate patients on proper storage methods to prevent unintentional ingestion. It is crucial to keep opioids out of reach of both children and pets, as even a small amount could be fatal. Optimal storage involves placing opioids in a locked cabinet or another secure area and ensuring they are not visible in plain sight. Opioids can also be turned in during community drug take back programs. These may be available at specific pharmacies or police stations. Top of FormBottom of Form

Some of the myths surrounding naloxone and opioids pose as educational opportunities pharmacists can take as well. One myth surrounding opioids is that fentanyl doesn’t respond to naloxone. Fentanyl responds to naloxone, although a higher dosage may be necessary compared to overdoses caused by other opioids. Another prevalent myth is the belief that possessing naloxone might encourage drug use. One analogy used by Dr. Anita Jacobson from the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy is, “if you have a fire extinguisher at home, you can stop a fire if needed, but it doesn’t make you start a fire.” It’s crucial to emphasize to patients that this medication prevents accidental overdoses and the medication will not induce any adverse effects toward the patient.

 

Naloxone is a key component of harm reduction strategies.

Naloxone is a key component of harm reduction strategies, which focus on minimizing the negative consequences associated with drug use. By providing naloxone to those at risk of opioid overdose, communities can actively engage in preventing fatalities and facilitating access to treatment and recovery services. As efforts to combat opioid addiction continue, the widespread availability and education surrounding naloxone are crucial elements in the multifaceted approach to save lives, promote recovery, and build healthier communities. Pharmacists play a crucial role in the opioid crisis as the most accessible health care professional. Pharmacists have the expertise to provide patients with in-depth information on the use of naloxone and the ability to guide them on responding to opioid overdose situations.

References:

1. Xu J, Mukherjee S. State laws that authorize pharmacists to prescribe naloxone are associated with increased naloxone dispensing in retail pharmacies. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2021;227:109012. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109012
2. S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, November 17). Naloxone in the pharmacy setting. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/nidamed-medical-health-professionals/science-to-medicine/medication-treatment-opioid-use-disorder/naloxone-in-pharmacy-setting#:~:text=If%20a%20loved%20one%20is,culture%20of%20sensitivity%20and%20recovery.
3. Alex Boulware, The pharmacist’s role in Naloxone dispensing to combat the opioid epidemic. Pharmacy Times. (June 10, 2021). https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/the-pharmacist-s-role-in-naloxone-dispensing-to-combat-the-opioid-epidemic

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Mastering Pharmacy Inventory Management: Ensuring Efficiency and Patient Care

Effective pharmacy inventory management is a crucial component of providing quality healthcare services. A well-organized and optimized inventory system not only ensures the availability of essential medications but also contributes to streamlined operations and improved patient care. In this blog article, we’ll delve into the key aspects of pharmacy inventory management, exploring strategies to enhance efficiency and maintain optimal stock levels.

Table of Contents

Importance of Pharmacy Inventory Management:

Pharmacy inventory management plays a pivotal role in the operation of healthcare facilities and community pharmacies. Effective inventory management contributes significantly to patient safety, operational efficiency, and financial viability.

Accurate stock tracking and timely replenishment not only prevent medication shortages, reducing the risk of patients being unable to access prescribed treatments, but also minimize the likelihood of dispensing errors. Moreover, a well-organized inventory system helps pharmacies optimize their resources by reducing waste through the timely identification and removal of expired medications. By embracing technology, setting clear procedures, and fostering collaborative relationships with suppliers, pharmacies can achieve a delicate balance in their inventory, enhancing overall healthcare quality and patient satisfaction. In essence, robust pharmacy inventory management is a cornerstone for delivering reliable, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare services.

 

Drug Purchasing:

Drug purchasing is a critical aspect in pharmacy inventory management. Inventory is generally a pharmacy’s largest asset and drug purchasing is the key to driving cash flow and profitability. Given the diverse array of purchasing options, terms, and ordering methods in today’s landscape, identifying the optimal combination becomes essential for each pharmacy. This tailored approach is crucial for effective inventory control and ultimately determining the profitability of the pharmacy.

 

Wholesale

When it comes to purchasing pharmaceuticals, you have a range of choices, but the prevalent method involves establishing a purchase agreement with a drug wholesaler like AmerisourceBergen®, Cardinal®, or McKesson®, among others. By setting up a primary wholesale account, you gain the flexibility to place daily orders at a predetermined purchase price, streamlining the procurement process for your pharmacy.

 

GPO

Pharmacies also have the alternative of becoming part of a group purchasing organization (GPO). Through GPO membership, your pharmacy collaborates with others of similar scale, pooling both volume and purchasing influence to enhance leverage during contract negotiations. The downside is that you would have to give up control of the negotiations to the controlling body of the GPO.

 

Inventory Management and Organization:

Typically, a pharmacy’s most substantial investment lies in its inventory, with drug inventory often reaching values exceeding a million dollars for some establishments. Essential to proper inventory management is the secure storage of all prescription drugs and devices, either within the pharmacy or a locked storage area, maintaining the appropriate temperature according to USP guidelines.

 

Organizing

Organizing drug inventories on pharmacy shelves commonly follows an alphabetical arrangement based on a drug’s brand or generic name. Special attention is often warranted for controlled substances, with federal law specifying secure storage in a locked cabinet or dispersed throughout non-control medications in a manner that will obstruct theft.

 

Inventory Cycle Counts

Conducting regular inventory cycle counts becomes an integral practice to uphold inventory accuracy. These counts involve the periodic counting of a specific subset or category of drugs. Additionally, pharmacies need to consistently monitor their drug inventory to identify and remove any expired drugs or devices, as dispensing expired items beyond their expiration date is prohibited by law.

 

Inventory Management: Legal and Recordkeeping:

Conducting inventory in a community pharmacy can be a daunting task, particularly for the Pharmacy Inventory Coordinator (PIC). Controlled substances, falling under Schedules II, III, IV, and V, understandably garner the most attention during inventory checks. Successfully managing this task within a limited timeframe involves key steps:

1. Identify efficient technicians and assemble a dedicated team for inventory assistance.
2. Familiarize yourself with your state’s specific inventory requirements, which may be more stringent than federal standards.
3. Allocate time before the scheduled inventory for preparation, including organizing prescription shelves, cleaning, and segregating expired medications, with controlled substances separated from legend drugs.

The inventory record, stored in the pharmacy, must be available for inspection for at least two years and filed separately from other pharmacy records. This record should encompass all controlled substances on hand during the inventory date, even if they are expired. Notably, Schedule II controlled substances are listed separately from Schedules III, IV, and V.

 

Pharmacies engage in inventory checks for various reasons:

1. Required before a new pharmacy opens for business, constituting an initial inventory.
2. Federal law mandates a biennial inventory every two years after the initial inventory date.
3. Change of pharmacy ownership, including Class A Community Pharmacy.
4. Pharmacy closure.
5. Change of Pharmacy Inventory Coordinator.
6. Introduction of a drug newly scheduled by the DEA.

 

Strategies for Effective Pharmacy Inventory Management:

 

Pharmacy Management Software

Implementing pharmacy management software facilitates real-time tracking of inventory levels, expirations, and reorder points. Automated systems streamline the ordering process, reducing the potential for human error.

 

SOPS

Developing clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) for inventory management processes, including receiving, storage, dispensing, and cycle counting can streamline inventory management reducing risks. SOPs provide guidelines for staff, promoting consistency and minimizing deviations from best practices.

 

Regular Audits & Cycle Counts

Conducting regular audits and cycle counts to reconcile physical inventory with the digital records provides ways to stay on top of the changing inventory. This proactive approach helps identify discrepancies and ensures accurate stock levels. Establishing reorder points and par levels based on historical usage and demand helps prevent stockouts and overstock situations. Continuous monitoring and adjustment of these levels contribute to an optimal inventory balance.

 

Embracing Technology in Pharmacy Inventory Management:

Implementing technologies like Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) and barcoding enhances accuracy and efficiency in tracking inventory. These technologies streamline processes such as checking in new stock and conducting inventory counts.

Cloud-based inventory management systems provide accessibility from anywhere, allowing to monitor and manage inventory remotely. Cloud solutions often integrate with other pharmacy management tools, promoting a cohesive workflow.

 

Effective Pharmacy Inventory Management Course

Efficient pharmacy inventory management is integral to providing optimal patient care and maintaining a successful pharmacy operation. By embracing technology, establishing clear procedures, and fostering collaborative relationships with suppliers, pharmacies can enhance their inventory management practices, ensuring the availability of medications while minimizing waste and errors. With a well-maintained inventory, pharmacies can focus on delivering high-quality healthcare services and improving patient outcomes.

References:

1. Ashley J, Sullivan M. Pharmacy Inventory. In: Wooster J, Yu FS. eds. Community Pharmacy Practice Guidebook. McGraw Hill; 2022. Accessed November 20, 2023. https://accesspharmacy.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=3175&sectionid=264577376

2. Pharmacy inventory management: Supply and demand of medication. ScriptPro. (n.d.). https://www.scriptpro.com/blog/pharmacy-inventory-management-supply-and-demand-of-medication

3. Kovalenko, P. (2023, September 4). 10 main features of a Pharmacy Inventory Management System. Langate. https://langate.com/10-main-features-of-a-pharmacy-inventory-management-system/#:~:text=A%20pharmacy%20inventory%20management%20system%20is%20a%20software%20system%20that,of%20overstocking%20and%20missed%20opportunities.

4. Loria, K. (2023, March 23). Managing inventory compliance with technology. Drug Topics. https://www.drugtopics.com/view/managing-inventory-compliance-with-technology

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