A recent post to the Cardiology PRN Community asked members what makes the PRN special. The responses—a flood of “firsts” (presentations, committees, publications), networking, mentorship, and lifelong friendships—echoed themes I’d expect from any PRN. Over the years, I’ve been impressed by the ingenuity of the PRNs, with creative programming like Throwback Thursdays revisiting landmark literature (with amazing summary infographics!), What’s New Wednesdays tackling emerging topics, and rich case discussions. Just when I wonder, “How can PRNs get any better?” they find new ways to shine. The recent survey of PRN best practices by the ACCP Member Relations Committee—spanning governance, communication, research, and more—shows how we can amplify this momentum. With survey insights and ACCP’s support, we’re poised to elevate PRNs even higher.

Virtual Engagement: Bridging Distances

PRNs keep members connected through newsletters, webinars, and social media to maintain interaction. But let’s face it—time zone headaches, platform quirks, and the ever-present challenge of virtual fatigue can complicate efforts. To address this, ACCP provided access to Zoom Pro accounts to smooth these challenges, enabling seamless collaboration—25 of the 28 PRNs have already opted in.

Enhancing Professional Development

PRN members value delivering high-quality, affordable continuing professional education (CPE) credit, yet costs and complexity can hinder progress. To tackle this, ACCP reduced CPE credit costs from $800-$1000 to $250 per event and partnered with PRNs to offer accredited programming, simplifying the path to impactful education.

Leading the Way: Governance That Works

PRNs operate under varied leadership structures, from lean and nimble teams to more expansive governance models. The trick lies in balancing leadership opportunities with operational efficiency. ACCP introduced the online PRN election nomination portal and organizational tools like microsites to simplify elections and enhance committee collaboration, reducing officer workloads and strengthening group coordination.

Communication and Outreach: Amplifying Our Voice

A strong communication game is essential for PRN success. Newsletters and social media keep members informed, yet managing them can be tricky. ACCP developed virtual engagement guidelines and social media resources, plus the Communities platform, to boost digital presence and streamline member communication.

Pushing the Boundaries: Clinical Pharmacy Practice and Research

PRNs are at the forefront of advancing practice and research through opinion papers, toolkits, and grant opportunities. Yet challenges like limited research support and hurdles in funding scholarships remain. In response, ACCP refined the PRN Officers Meeting into an interactive forum to encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing in clinical pharmacy practice and research initiatives.

Celebrating Achievements: Awards and Recognition

Recognizing excellence keeps members motivated and engaged. PRNs employ structured evaluation rubrics, expanded awards, and new recognition initiatives to spotlight contributions in service and research. To make the procedure smoother, ACCP introduced microsites to simplify the nominations and awards management process.

Investing in the Future: Engaging Students and Postgraduate Trainees

Students and postgraduate trainees bring energy and fresh perspectives, thriving through mentorship, travel awards, and committee involvement, yet engaging them effectively remains a challenge. ACCP reformatted the PRN Officers Meeting into an interactive forum where leaders share successes and hurdles. For example, discussion from last year’s meeting led to expanded PRN access. Students and postgraduate trainees can now join multiple PRNs at no extra cost.

Looking Ahead

The ACCP PRN Best Practices Report showcases what’s working while tackling ongoing challenges. By enhancing digital tools and streamlining communication and governance, ACCP is committed to helping PRNs grow and thrive. Together, PRNs will continue to advance research, support their members, and build a vibrant pharmacy community.

I will close with a request and a personal thank you. First, my request—more of a CALL TO ACTION—I charge our PRNs to reflect on our core values and how we can best reflect those values in all of the programs that we offer. All of our initiatives should be based on our core values, and pausing to reflect on them allows us to be more proactive in ensuring they come to life in all that we do.

Reflecting on my own PRN experience, a heartfelt THANK YOU to my dear colleague and friend, Dr. Tien Ng. Thank you, Tien, for nudging me to volunteer to get involved in the PRN, which opened the door to my own journey of ACCP service all those many years ago.