The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

4180.0: Tuesday, November 12, 2002 - 2:45 PM

Abstract #50237

Emergency preparedness and the medication supply pipeline: A pharmacist’s point of view

Steven L. Sheaffer, PharmD, FASHP, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-657-3000, aguilfoy@equals3.com

In the wake of the events of September 11, 2001, it has never been more important to take a multidisciplinary approach to community health planning and emergency preparedness. “Emergency Preparedness and the Medication Supply Pipeline: A Pharmacist’s Point of View,” a presentation sponsored by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), details the many ways pharmacists in hospitals and health systems can positively impact the prescribing and distribution of medications in the event of a terrorist incident or natural disaster. Specifically, the presentation addresses:

-The readiness of the pharmaceutical supply chain (and related decision-support and drug information processes) as it relates to new demands on the nation’s health care system in the face of homeland terrorism. -The pharmacist’s expertise in drug distribution and control and drug therapy management of patients in the event of a homeland terrorist attack with weapons of mass destruction, especially chemical, biological, and nuclear agents. -Ways the pharmacist can advise public health officials on appropriate consumer messages related to the use of medications after terrorist incidents (with consideration given to issues such as adverse effects, contraindications, and drug effectiveness).

Learning Objectives:

Keywords: Bioterrorism, Pharmacies

Related Web page: www.ashp.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Preparedness for and Repercussions of Bio-Terrorism

The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA