Senate Community Pharmacy Caucus formed

The first Senate Community Pharmacy Caucus was established in late June.

Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) created the caucus, which is meant to serve as an advocate for community pharmacy issues and as a clearinghouse of information for senators, staff, and other interested parties.

The caucus will complement the Congressional Community Pharmacy Caucus that was established by the House of Representatives in 2007. That caucus now features 30 House members.

"In many Kansas communities and throughout the country, the local pharmacist is a patient's most direct link to healthcare. This caucus will provide valuable resources to senators as we work to see that all Americans have better access to affordable healthcare," said Sen. Moran.

Community pharmacies are vital to America's rural communities, added Sen. Tester. "These small businesses are a critical part of what keeps rural America strong and healthy," Tester said.

The National Community Pharmacists Association, the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, and the American Pharmacists Association praised the formation of the Senate Community Pharmacy Caucus and encouraged other senators to become members.