The board of the Oklahoma Society of Health-System Pharmacists has made one of its key goals for the coming year to establish a collaborative practice agreement between pharmacists and physicians practicing in Oklahoma. OSHP has advocated for this important step forward for the profession for many years, but have been concerned that they have lagged behind many states in achieving this goal. OSHP Legislative Chair, Wiley “Butch” Williams notes that the last time OSHP made a serious attempt to introduce legislation they were blocked by osteopathic physicians who “either did not understand or agree with the issue.” This role of educating health systems colleagues is seen as key. Williams is also working hard to persuade other state pharmacy associations to support the effort, but although some individual members have expressed support it has been hard to get official support from these associations. If necessary OSHP is committed to go it alone and make a presentation to the state board of pharmacy. OSHP president Susan Fugate expresses great enthusiasm and optimism that this goal can be reached as well as the other major goals set at their strategic planning retreat facilitated by ASHP staff liaison, Jonathan Gerstner. The big three are:

1. Establish a collaborative practice agreement between pharmacists and physicians practicing in Oklahoma.
2. Increase membership to 400 active and associate members of OSHP.
3. Improve value of membership in OSHP by creating resources to foster professional development in health-system pharmacy.