If you own a company in the pharmacy industry, you would do well to partner with an association of pharmacists to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from many company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.
Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, a pharmacy association may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and discounts.
When looking for membership with a certified pharmacy association, remember the following:
1. Make sure the pharmacy society you're interested in is credible. Check BBB or other industry accreditations.
2. Choose an organization that has resources you can turn to when you have questions or concerns regarding your business.
3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Become a member of an accredited pharmacists association
Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership as well.
I recommend: The
University of Kentucky presents a listing of national pharmacy organizations. The
Healthcare Distribution Management Association (HDMA) offers its members the opportunity to nominate themselves as industry leaders. The
American Pharmacists Association (APhA) is the largest pharmacy industry association in the United States.
Join professional pharmacy organizations that offer a full schedule of events and conferences
Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally recognized events.
I recommend: The
American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) offers a listing of annual meetings and conferences. The event calendar at The
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) includes certificate programs, conferences and workshops.
Take advantage of industry certification opportunities provided by your pharmacy group
Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.
I recommend: The
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) offers a selection of examination, licensure, accreditation and assessment programs.
American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) provides many certification options.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- If you're considering a pharmacists society for its online resources, look for one with a current forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.
The official source of Pharmacy Organizations is
the Pharmacy Organizations page at Business.com
Subscribe to
Try our free weekly WhatWorks newsletter, with business how-to advice
& resources from Work.com.
Related Resources from Business.com
Comments
Is any content on this page inappropriate? To let us know, please 
