Updated September 7, 2017: Due to the threat of Hurricane Irma, APhA has cancelled the Joint Federal Pharmacy Seminar (JFPS), scheduled for September 10–13 in Orlando, FL. The decision was made with primary consideration for the safety and well-being of APhA members, event attendees, and exhibitors. For current information or questions concerning JFPS 2017, please visit jfpsmeeting.pharmacist.com.

There are many of us who don’t slow down for Labor Day or other holidays—instead many continue to serve by being on call and always ready to care for our patients and communities. That includes the federal pharmacy workforce.

Federal pharmacists treat a large and hugely important patient population. They play an important role in maintaining our nation’s readiness and resilience at home and overseas. They help us tackle the challenges that face our nation from within and without, including health challenges like opioid abuse, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and natural disasters. Federal pharmacists, perhaps more than most, also treat patients living on reservations, who may suffer disproportionate challenges.

One of APhA’s major initiatives, the Joint Federal Pharmacy Seminar (JFPS), is designed and built just for these dedicated pharmacists. To be held in Orlando this year, JFPS consists of networking opportunities, education sessions, and more, and offers an opportune chance for federal pharmacy leaders and the federal pharmacists on the frontlines of health care to come together to share what’s working and where we must continue to make strides.

Federal pharmacy poses unique challenges and also provides a unique opportunity to try innovative solutions in a coordinated way, where contributions can be quantified and results measured. These lessons have implications for public health at large and APhA is grateful for the chance to convene federal pharmacists every year.

JFPS begins September 10 and runs through September 13. I encourage those of you who practice in the federal pharmacy space to learn and teach at JFPS. Visit http://jfpsmeeting.pharmacist.com/ to learn more. Registration is open now. Book your hotel room to get the lowest federal and civilian rates.

We look forward to your participation—see you in Orlando!

Updated September 5, 2017