MPA-UP Division Fall Seminar: Why YOU Should Attend Next Year!

by Emma Holmi, 2016 Pharm.D. candidate, Ferris State University College of Pharmacy

Each year, the Michigan Pharmacists Association (MPA)-Upper Peninsula Division hosts a Fall Seminar. This year, the seminar was held in Marquette and since I was on my Advanced Practice Pharmacy Experience rotation with MPA, I literally jumped at the opportunity to head to the Upper Peninsula. Now, I may be biased since both of my parents are originally from the better upper-half of Michigan, but I think everyone should make time to attend this annual seminar. Not only was this year’s event informative and a great opportunity to earn continuing education, but more importantly, it is a great way to network with fellow pharmacists.

Some of the highlights of the seminar in Marquette included a presentation from Nicholas Torney, Pharm.D., a Postgraduate Year 2 infectious disease resident from Munson Medical Center, on penicillin skin testing, along with addiction psychiatrist, Dr. Michael Notorangelo’s much anticipated speech on handling the treatment of pain in an environment of diversion.

The seminar also included an update on pharmacy law and the lessons learned from the board disciplinary subcommittee from Rosalie Baran, Pharm.D., and her husband Gregory Baran, R.Ph. Not only was the presentation informative, but it was a great forum to ask questions on a variety of pharmacy law-related topics. The excellent agenda also included updates on pharmacy advocacy presented by Amanda Lick, MPA manager of advocacy, governmental and regulatory affairs; the 2014-2015 new Food and Drug Administration drug approvals presented by Dr. Timothy Jones; a 2015 Beer’s criteria update presented by Dr. Alicia Thatcher and Dr. Timothy Jones; and a presentation on the Upper Peninsula Health Plan by Sheryl Waudby, R.Ph.

The Ferris State University Alumni Board graciously hosted a happy hour for the seminar attendees at the Ore Dock Brewing Company in downtown Marquette. Marquette is located on the shores of Lake Superior and has a charm you won’t forget, especially after you stroll downtown, eat at delectable restaurants, explore the numerous bike trails, climb to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and take advantage of all the other outdoor activities the area has to offer.

MPA strives to provide its members, pharmacists, technicians and students alike, with considerable opportunities for professional growth and networking. I would urge everyone to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to visit the Upper Peninsula for the annual Fall Seminar; if you are lucky, you might even be able to see the peak of amazing fall colors. Mark your calendars for a soon-to-be-announced weekend next October and I hope to see you up in Houghton for the seminar in 2016!