Kennedy and MacLean testify before Congress

On May 18, 2016, Charles D. MacLean, MDCM, Professor of Medicine and Amanda G. Kennedy, PharmD, BCPS, Associate Professor of Medicine, presented at the U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Briefing entitled, “Getting the Medications Right: An essential ingredient in achieving the goals of H.R. 4878 – the Medicare Better Care, Lower Cost Act". The briefing was presented by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy and the College of Psychiatric and Neurologic Pharmacists. Here is Amanda's report:

It was quite a day! Charlie and I spent most of the morning at the DC offices of ACCP, preparing for the briefing. The briefing was held in the Rayburn Building, adjacent to the Capitol building. As Congress was in session, the attendees were Congressional staff. I had the opportunity to speak informally with a few of the staff and my sense was they were very passionate about healthcare, but with a very limited understanding of what healthcare is like from the “front lines.” It was the perfect opportunity to showcase the innovative work we are doing here in Vermont. The briefing was an hour long – 20 minutes from a pharmacist-physician team from Minnesota, 20 minutes from us, and 20 minutes of questions. I think there was a great response from those who attended and it was a fabulous opportunity.

As far as H.R. 4878 – the Medicare Better Care, Lower Cost Act, we were told that the briefing was a “place holder,” as it was unlikely to be voted on in an election year. However, continuing to educate stakeholders about the value of pharmacists cannot be discussed often enough! I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to represent Vermont in general, and specifically Vermont pharmacists.