SPA President’s Message - April, 2010
Submitted by Michael Brandt, SPA President
Greetings!
First allow me to thank you for your support in voting me in as President for 2010. I truly enjoy and appreciate belonging to SPA, and recognize what incredible value our members bring to the practice of pharmacy. We have a diverse and dynamic group, which is unique to Washington. SPA has long been recognized by WSPA as the epitome of a ‘merged’ organization. We bring together practitioners from retail, long-term care, hospital, industry, and other settings as well as opportunities for pharmacists, interns, technicians, and students from schools of both pharmacists and technicians.
SPA is changing its model, as many of you have noticed. This can be seen in two major arenas: electronic means and continuing education. The first, electronic, is most evident in that we’ve nearly eliminated mailings to members, preferring e-mail notifications and utilizing the website to its fullest for postings, newsletters, etc. There have been a couple of bumps along this road, as will be the case in almost any new venture, but overall we feel it is a successful initiative.
The second, continuing education, is a reflection of how national and world politics and economics reach each and every one of us. The last two years as Education Chair I was able to apply for and receive grants from industry to assist us in providing medication education to the members. About 6 months ago that pool was exhausted, and it may or may not again become available. So we had to revamp our efforts and you’ll notice that in two ways. One, some of our CEs will only be accompanied by dessert and coffee as opposed to a full meal. Two, some of our educational opportunities will require you, the individual, to apply for CE credit. We’re evolving and refining that process.
We appreciate each member, and are always looking for ways to improve. If you have a suggestion let us know! Thank you for all you do each and every day to improve the lives of our patients.
