Open House/Pharmacy Tours

This activity will allow you to give your institution’s administrator and other staff a glimpse into the daily operations of the pharmacy. During the tour, describe the range of pharmacy activities and share success stories about improved patient outcomes and enhanced medication safety. You can also:

1. Provide statistics about the number and types of calls received from the medical and nursing staff, or
2. Point out any technological advances, such as automated dispensing machines, and discuss their impact on your ability to provide clinical services.

Meet & Greet

Invite patients and their caregivers to meet the pharmacy staff and ask questions about their medication therapies. Because some patients may be unable to leave their rooms, caregivers may appreciate a quick diversion and can bring materials back to patients. Plan to give a short introduction at the Meet & Greet that includes:

1. An introduction of the pharmacy staff in attendance,
2. A description of the pharmacists’ activities at your facility,
3. An explanation of how those activities benefit patient care, and
4. An invitation to ask questions about medication use.

Brown-Bag Workshops

Host a brown-bag session at ambulatory care clinics, health fairs, or when speaking to senior citizens groups. Encourage patients to bring their prescription and over-the-counter medications and discuss their drug therapy regimens with a pharmacist. During your brown bag session be sure to:

1. Have drug information references, such as AHFS-Drug Information or ASHP’s Medication Teaching Manual, available to share with patients.
2. Provide participants with handouts on safe medication use and giveaways such as pens, bookmarks, or magnets that will remind them of the pharmacy staff’s role in their health care.
3. Inform patients about www.Safemedication.com, ASHP's Web site where consumers can find drug information and other important health resources.

"Take Your Legislator to Work"

Hosting a site visit for your senator or representative will provide them with an invaluable view of the contemporary roles of pharmacists. Make sure that a pharmacist in your facility is conducting high-level patient care services that warrant compensation, such as drug therapy management, participation in patient education and wellness activities, and other clinical activities. For more assistance in planning a visit for your legislator, contact ASHP's Government Affairs staff at gad@ashp.org.