Recap: Pharmacists Share The Biggest Takeaways from APhA 2025

The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) Annual Meeting and Exposition 2025 highlighted the importance of professional connection and inspiration within the pharmacy community. Elizabeth Pogge, PharmD, professor in the College of Pharmacy at Midwestern University; Darcy Aslett, PharmD, residency program director for PGY-1 community-based residency at St. Luke's Health System; Mark Garofoli, PharmD, BCGP, CPE, director of experiential learning at West Virginia University; and Emily Leppien, PharmD, BCPS, BCPP, clinical associate professor of pharmacy practice at Binghamton University, emphasized several key themes that emerged from the event. Networking emerged as a critical aspect of the conference, particularly for midcareer professionals who can sometimes feel isolated in their practice. Attendees valued the opportunity to connect with colleagues, share experiences, and learn from one another. The conference provided a platform for pharmacists to discuss both challenges and successes within their profession.

The conference's theme, "Igniting Inspiration," resonated strongly with participants. They were particularly excited about the health system perspective on outpatient pharmacy, recognizing the integral role outpatient pharmacists play in patient care—a perspective that is often overlooked. Participants were impressed by the conference's dynamic environment, noting the engaging presenters and interactive learning sessions. The conference showcased the pharmacy profession's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, with a focus on active learning and professional development.

Patient care and safety were prominent discussion points. The experts encouraged pharmacists to be inspired to help patients, particularly by finding and sharing community resources. One specific example highlighted was the importance of accessing naloxone and other critical medications through local health departments. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to learn from each other, engage in meaningful conversations, and feel part of a larger professional community. APhA reinforced the idea that pharmacists are "on top of their game" and well-positioned to make significant contributions to health care.

Key takeaways included the value of professional networking, the importance of patient-centered care, and the ongoing need for pharmacists to stay inspired, engaged, and committed to their profession's highest standards. The conference ultimately served as a reminder of the pharmacy profession's potential to make a meaningful impact on patient health and health care delivery.

"When you see the vibrant environment, whether it's in the exhibit hall or this reception or that reception or the hallways or even CE programs, we pharmacists are on top of our game," Garofoli said. "We are set for success. It's all about just going home and doing it, and we do excel at that in pharmacy."