“We’re looking forward to an outstanding program during our annual convention, October 19 and 20 at the Marriott Hotel in Charleston. Of importance to pharmacists is the availability of the West Virginia required three-hour drug diversion continuing education course,” said Ken Reed, WVPA President, who will preside over the 112th Annual Convention.
Highlights of the meeting include a legislative update including new laws enacted by the 2019 Legislature, updates to the Controlled Substance Monitoring Program and the statute legalizing medical marijuana.
The featured program includes “Present Trends and the Future of Community Pharmacy.” It will be presented by Attorney Kala Shankle, He will present background of DIR and explore how DIR impacts community pharmacies and the patients they serve. Attorney Shankle will also reflect on unique and innovative trends that are shaping community pharmacy.
Updates will identify the latest ACIP immunization recommendations and changes to the adult vaccination schedule. The immunization updates will provide guidance on the use of herpes zoster vaccines, as well as describing the use, dosing and other factors related to the novel Hepatitis B vaccine. Areas of research regarding vaccine development and recommendations will also be presented.
Required of pharmacists to maintain their West Virginia license is the three-hour drug diversion continuing education course, scheduled for 9:00 a.m., October 20. The presenter will discuss what comprises drug diversion, including WV statistics on prescription drug abuse and resulting deaths, and describe the indicators for opioids in chronic pain treatment including general characteristics, toxicities and drug interactions.
They will describe the indicators for opioids in chronic pain treatment including general characteristics, toxicities and drug interaction, along with outlining patient evaluation and risk assessment and tools to access risk and monitor benefits.
The required drug diversion course will include examples of compliance with controlled substance laws, and identify registration with and use of the WV Controlled Substance Monitoring Program established in WV Code. The presenter will also discuss a case study of a patient with chronic pain, and identify diversion and drug seeking behaviors and tactics.
Also of importance and required of pharmacists under the State’s drug diversion law are the best practice methods for working with patients, prescribers and law enforcement concerning patients suspected of drug seeking behavior and diversion. Pharmacists will earn the required three-hour CE for attending this program October 20.
“The convention will include presentation of awards and installation of officers at 11:30 a.m., and a reception from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., October 19. We will also have pharmaceuticals manufacturers and wholesalers exhibiting,” said Reed.
Pharmacists can earn 9.5 hours of CE by attending both days of the convention; or 6.5 hours CE by attending the Oct. 19 program or 3.0 hours for attending only the State-required drug diversion CE course on Oct. 20.
Registration for a WVPA or WVSHP member pharmacist is $160 for both days, or $110 for Oct. 19 program or $90 for Oct. 20 drug diversion program. Fees for non-member pharmacists are $340 for both days; $210 for Oct. 19 program or $190 for Oct. 20 drug diversion program.
Pharmacists can register by sending their registration fee for either or both days to WVPA, 2016 1/2 Kanawha Blvd., East, Charleston, WV 25311 prior to October 1. Registration increases $50 after October 1. Call WVPA 304-344-5302 for information.
Pharmacists can make room reservations by calling the Charleston Marriott toll-free at 1-800-228-9290 or direct at 304-345-6500. Register early to be assured accommodations.
