APhA develops Pharmacist Response Center web site
In light of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and more recent anthrax exposure threats, the American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA) in Washington, DC, has created a comprehensive Bioterrorism Action Center on its web site (www.aphanet.org/pharmcare/ResponseCenter.htm). APhA suggests these guidelines when preparing your own facility for possible future problems:
- Tell local and state public health and emergency medical officials that you want to be a part of your community’s emergency response team.
- Create a disaster response team within your practice setting.
- Check with your state board of pharmacy, if needed, to determine if an emergency dispensing provision exists within your state practice act. If one does not exist, discuss such an option with your state pharmacy association.
- Consult with the administrators of the major prescription drug benefit programs you serve (such as Medicaid, pharmacy benefit managers, etc.) to determine if a protocol exists for emergency refills.
- Work with wholesalers to establish storage sites for drugs, biologicals, and supplies received after a disaster, if your facility is not equipped or is nonoperational.
- Compile a handbook with contact information for wholesalers, suppliers, manufacturers, communication companies, and other resources that could assist you in obtaining pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, communication links, etc. Also include a plan for utilization of your practice’s vehicles to transport health care professionals and deliver supplies.
- Develop a list of drugs, biological supplies, nutritional products, or other items for emergency shelters or health departments in time of a disaster.
- Create a list of local representatives who can be contacted to assist in obtaining necessary drugs and supplies.
- Obtain training in the area of immunizations, first aid, and disaster preparedness.
- Keep up with the latest developments and recent findings in emergency preparedness within your community. Serve as a resource within your community to ensure correct information is disseminated to the public.
- Create a list of pharmacists to call upon for assistance. Identify a lead pharmacist to coordinate activities within your practice. Make all staff aware of your disaster procedures.
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