Utah society of health-system Pharmacists

A message from USHP President, Brian Bothwell...

Happy Fall from USHP!

Ok, Fall technically is not until Sept 22, but it is right around the corner. I’m often guilty of looking towards the future and wishing it was here today. When it comes to pharmacy, I’m wishing drug shortages are mitigated (*dobutamine anyone?*), that we are recognized as Providers and reimbursed for clinical services rendered, and the FTC probe has led to stopping PBM anticompetitive practices. But we can’t zoom ahead to the future, we’ve got to attack the current problems head on to get the outcomes we want. A couple of issues health-system pharmacies and USHP are grappling with now are with 340B restrictions and technician shortages.

With at least 18 drug manufacturers imposing restrictions on 340B discounts when drugs are dispensed at contract pharmacies, millions (potentially billions) of dollars are being channeled out of rural and safety net health-systems and being retained in manufacturer’s pockets. Without this vital funding, health-systems in many cases are cutting patient care services, laying off staff, and be at risk for closure. This year, USHP with collaboration from ASHP, provided education on and advocated for Utah House Bill 308 to prevent these manufacturer restrictions. Unfortunately, the bill did not pass, but USHP remains committed to providing state support and resources for the 340B Program.

Pharmacy technician shortages remains an issue state- and nationwide. There are many contributing factors, but two at the top of the list are inadequate pay and lack of meaningful career ladders. USHP encourages health-systems to recognize and implement changes to address these factors. One-way USHP is helping is by promoting advanced pharmacy technician roles. USHP offers scholarships for member Technicians who complete any of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certifications and certificates. Some of those examples include the Certified Compounding Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT), Controlled Substance Diversion Prevention Certificate, and the Billing and Reimbursement Certificate. The goals of the scholarships are to remove the financial barrier that may prohibit technicians from pursuing these and also to increase skills and knowledge which supports pay increases. Please visit the webpage to learn more!

Something that is right around the corner is our Annual meeting in-person on September 24th! I look forward to meeting with all of you and learning from our great presenters and vendors. It’s been such an honor to serve as USHP President alongside our incredible Board and Committee members. I am thrilled about what we have accomplished this year and sincerely look forward to what else USHP has in store just around the corner.

Cheers,

Brian Bothwell, PharmD, BCPS

USHP President

Brian Bothwell, PharmD, BCPS

USHP President (2021-2022)