Shining the Spotlight on "Next-Generation" Pharmacists

Pharmacy Times and Parata Systems have joined forces to salute professionals who are defining the future of pharmacy. In addition to recognizing pharmacists who have provided exceptional service with an awards program, the Next-Generation Pharmacist profile will provide an intimate snapshot of the current state of the practice of pharmacy. The program will explore where pharmacists believe the profession is headed and identify the qualities and values of those who are leading the way.

“We look forward to shining a rare spotlight on the best of the best in the profession,” said Fred Eckel, Editor-in-Chief of Pharmacy Times. “This kind of recognition for pharmacists is long overdue.”

The awards program is open to licensed pharmacists practicing in all retail environments, including chain, community, hospital outpatient and government settings as well as technicians and student pharmacists in the 2 special categories.

Pharmacists should consider nominating a colleague, friend, or nominating themselves in 10 individual categories. The Next-Generation Pharmacist award categories are: Rising Star, Entrepreneur, Green Pharmacist, Civic Leader, Technology Innovator, Patient Advocate, Industry Advocate, Technician, Future Pharmacist (Student Pharmacist), and Lifetime Achievement Award.

Pharmacy Times and Parata will select the inaugural 2010 “Next-Generation Pharmacist,” the highest award, from 1 of the 10 category winners. Awards will be presented this October at the National Community Pharmacists Association 112th Annual Convention and Trade Exhibition in Philadelphia.

“Pharmacists touch the lives of so many people each day, but often their accomplishments go unrecognized,” said Tom Rhoads, executive vice president of sales, marketing, and service for Parata. “We created the Next-Generation Pharmacist Awards with Pharmacy Times to recognize the true innovators in the field.”

To learn more about the specific categories, make a nomination or self-nominate, visit www.nextgenerationpharmacist.org and www.PharmacyTimes.com for nomination forms and instructions on how to enter. Entries can be submitted online or via mail through May 31, 2010.

For other articles in this issue, see:

• Asthma and Allergies Linked to Climate Change
• Can Frequent Indoor Tanning Lead to Addiction?
• Computer-Translated Prescriptions Put Patients at Risk