Parata Systems, Pharmacy Times launch The Next-Generation Pharmacist Program

Parata Systems and Pharmacy Times have joined forces to salute pharmacy professionals who are defining the future of pharmacy by launching The Next-Generation Pharmacist™ Program.

The program has two components: The Next-Generation Pharmacist Profile will provide an intimate snapshot of the current state and future vision of the practice of pharmacy. This research program will explore where pharmacists believe the profession is headed, and identify the qualities and values of those who are leading the way. The findings will be the focus of a special feature in the July issue of Pharmacy Times.  

The Next-Generation Pharmacist Awards, presented at a special event in October, will honor those pharmacists, technicians and student pharmacists who embrace and embody that future vision in the following categories:

1. Rising Star
2. Entrepreneur
3. Green Pharmacist
4. Civic Leader
5. Technology Innovator
6. Patient Advocate
7. Industry Advocate
8. Technician
9. Future Pharmacist (student pharmacist)
10. Lifetime Achievement Award

The top pharmacist nominee from these categories will be honored as the inaugural "Next-Generation Pharmacist." Nominations open April 4 at www.nextgenerationpharmacist.org, and the deadline for entry is May 31. Entries can be submitted online or via mail.

"Pharmacists touch the lives of so many people each day, but often their accomplishments go unrecognized," said Tom Rhoads, executive vice president of Sales, Marketing and Service for Parata. "We created the Next-Generation Pharmacist Awards with Pharmacy Times to recognize the true innovators in the field."

"These awards offer a first-of-a-kind opportunity for pharmacists to gain much-deserved recognition for outstanding contributions, while boosting the visibility of their pharmacies in the industry and in the communities they serve," said Fred Eckel, editor-in-chief of Pharmacy Times. "We are pleased to partner with Parata to shine a rare spotlight on those individuals who are taking our industry to the next level."

Finalists will be profiled in special coverage by Pharmacy Times, and honored at the Next-Generation Pharmacist Awards dinner in Philadelphia, held during the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) Annual Convention and Trade Exhibition (October 23-27).

The program is open to licensed pharmacists practicing in all retail environments, including chain, community, hospital outpatient and government settings, as well as technicians and student pharmacists in the two special categories. An independent judging panel chaired by Mr. Eckel will be announced shortly.

Stay informed about the latest news relative to the Next-Generation Pharmacist program by registering at www.nextgenerationpharmacist.org, and by following the program on Facebook and Twitter.