Every October is American Pharmacists Month and the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) celebrates the accomplishments of pharmacists and educates patients, the public, policy makers, and other health professionals about pharmacists’ expanding role in patient care as integral members of the health care team.

The month-long observance recognizes the impact that pharmacists have on improving medication use and advancing patient care throughout all practice settings. It is a way to motivate and galvanize the pharmacy profession, while also inspiring the community to “Know Your Pharmacist—Know Your Medicine,” the theme for American Pharmacists Month. The APhA message is based on one essential fact seen in pharmacies, clinics and other health care sites every day: The more patients interact with their pharmacist, the more they will know about their medications.

During American Pharmacists Month, APhA makes a special effort to promote awareness of the broad array of services that pharmacists offer - beyond the safe distribution of medication - such as education, prevention and general wellness. Examples of these services include seasonal and lifespan immunizations; medication reviews to assess safety, effectiveness, interactions and adherence; care management and counseling for disease states such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol; and smoking cessation counseling.

As a way to highlight the importance of the special month and to support the profession’s engagement, APhA devotes part of its website to American Pharmacists Month, where there are tips on outreach and messaging to spread the word, a variety of ideas to inspire activities and events, and promotional items featuring the theme and logo. In addition to pharmacists, APhA encourages pharmacy technicians, student pharmacists and chapters of the APhA Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP) to use any of these tips while celebrating on campus and in the community.

For American Pharmacists Month 2016, APhA will participate in a number of activities, including a Capitol Hill Health Fair on September 22 where members of Congress, staff, and the general public can get their flu shots and health screenings, including bone density, glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, and body composition; and media and social media campaigns

From fun activities at your pharmacy to health-related community events, there are many different impactful ways to celebrate American Pharmacists Month at any stage of your career and increase public awareness of the profession. Make sure to share your plans for American Pharmacists Month with us and encourage others to do the same. Visit APhA’s website for ways to celebrate throughout October. Please e-mail any coverage, clips, and event photos to APhA staff at aphm@aphanet.org.