Accreditation is an important way for pharmacies to demonstrate a high level of care to patients, payers, health care providers, and the public. As you may remember, in 2012, APhA—in collaboration with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP)—created the Center for Pharmacy Practice Accreditation (CPPA) to recognize pharmacy practices for providing patient care services that improve health outcomes and contribute to lower health care costs.

In the spring of 2014, we announced the launch of CPPA’s new voluntary pharmacy practice accreditation program. This program allows outpatient pharmacy practices in the community, hospitals, health systems, and clinics to differentiate themselves in the marketplace.

In October, APhA and ASHP conducted an electronic survey regarding pharmacy practice accreditation. I’d like to share with you the following results: 46% of respondents have a favorable opinion of CPPA—yet 79% of respondents work in pharmacies that are not accredited, and only 15% of respondents are likely to seek accreditation in the next 12 months.

Interestingly, 38% of pharmacies that are likely to seek accreditation in the next year are considering CPPA as their accreditor.  APhA members are more likely to consider CPPA for accreditation, while ASHP members are more likely to consider URAC. The overwhelming majority of pharmacists (94%) preferred to receive accreditation from an organization owned by professional pharmacy organizations. THAT would be CPPA!

I am proud that many pharmacists are considering accreditation through a profession-led initiative. As you can see, while still in its infancy, community pharmacy accreditation is an important pathway to establishing ourselves in health care services and to preparing for networks that rely on patient care standards rather than the lowest bidder for participation!

For more information about the accreditation application and accreditation process, including a policy and procedure assessment checklist, visit www.pharmacypracticeaccredit.org.