NCPA | National Community Pharmacists Association

NCPA National Website

About NCPA

The National Community Pharmacists Association, founded in 1898 as the National Association of Retail Druggists (NARD), represents the pharmacist owners, managers, and employees of nearly 23,000 independent community pharmacies across the United States. The nation's independent pharmacies, independent pharmacy franchises, and independent chains dispense nearly half of the nation's retail prescription medicines.

The nation's independent pharmacists are small business entrepreneurs and multifaceted health care providers who represent a vital part of the United States' health care delivery system. They have roots in America's communities. They are community leaders actively involved in community-oriented public health, civic, and volunteer projects. Many hold local elected offices; others serve as state legislators.

Ways to Get Involved

Drug Take-back Days
Drug Take-back Days are community-centered events held to give people opportunities to dispose of old and unneeded medications that they are otherwise unable to. Through partnerships with local pharmacies, law enforcement, and the DEA, events are successful in increasing patient awareness of proper disposal and acquiring unnecessary medications in order to remove the compliance and criminal hazards associated with retaining excess medications. In addition to take-back services, NCPA frequently provides health screenings along with blood pressure and blood glucose checks to counsel patients on effective management of their lifestyle. Drug Take-back Days are widely popular events locally and serve as one of the most effective ways NCPA is able to serve our local community.

Legislative Conference
Each spring, NCPA members have the unique opportunity to participate in the annual NCPA Legislative Conference. This conference gives us, as pharmacy professionals, the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. and speak face-to-face with our national legislature about the issues that concern our profession. This annual conference never fails to have an impact on a national scale for the good of patients and pharmacy and it gives us the opportunity to be that voice.

Health Fairs
In partnership with community events and organizations, NCPA hosts various health fairs throughout the year to provide health services and increase patient awareness. NCPA frequently provides blood pressure and blood glucose checks as well as patient counseling opportunities ree to the public.