From Prevention to Parenthood: Contraception, Endometriosis, and Infertility Insights - BCACP Credit

Pharmacists are increasingly playing a vital role in managing gynecology-related conditions. More than half of U.S. states allow pharmacists to prescribe contraception. Recent updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the significance of person-centered contraceptive care and emphasizes the need to focus on specific chronic conditions. With the arrival of an over-the-counter progestin-only pill, pharmacists can further engage with individuals regarding their contraceptive choices. Pharmacists can use their education, experience, and training to expand access not only to contraception but to other gynecology-related conditions. Approximately 10% of individuals experience endometriosis, and nearly 20% of individuals are impacted by fertility issues. Medications may be part of the treatment plan for both conditions. Many individuals who experience endometriosis and or infertility concerns note that they feel dismissed, or their concerns are minimized. Disparities in care are observed among those who are disproportionally impacted by health inequities. With an expected shortage of 5,000 obstetrician-gynecologists by 2030, there is an urgent demand for health care professionals to work as a team to manage gynecological conditions.

Pharmacists can serve a vital role on the health care team through education and management of contraception, endometriosis, and infertility. Awareness of other treatment modalities and methods to support individuals with these conditions can increase access to care. In addition to medications, pharmacists can assist with laboratory monitoring and home fertility trackers and monitors. For example, pharmacists can recommend and assist in interpreting newer fertility assessments such as Pregmune, SpermQT, Receptiva, EMMA, and ALICE. There is also emerging evidence surrounding testing for endometriosis. This session will provide an overview of recent updates in contraception, endometriosis, and fertility care. Attendees will engage in case-based learning to apply their knowledge in these areas and determine the role of the ambulatory care pharmacist in gynecology care. Additionally, recent laws and regulations impacting the delivery of reproductive health care in the United States will be discussed.

The session’s goal is to enhance pharmacists' understanding of updated contraceptive guidance and delivery methods. It will cover the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of endometriosis, highlighting recent advancements in treatment options. For infertility, the session will review causes, diagnosis, and treatment, focusing on evidence-based practices and emerging therapies. Ethical and legal considerations in prescribing contraception and managing gynecology-related conditions will also be discussed, ensuring pharmacists adhere to best practices and regulatory requirements.

Ultimately, this session aims to empower pharmacists to play a more active role in gynecology care, improving patient outcomes and expanding access to essential reproductive health services.

Urinary Incontinence in Adults: Optimizing Care with Current and Emerging Therapies - BCACP / BCGP Credit

Urinary incontinence affects millions of adults, significantly impacting their quality of life and overall health. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in the pharmacologic management of urinary incontinence. Participants will explore the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of current treatments while gaining insights into the pipeline of emerging therapies. Emphasis will be placed on tailoring treatments to individual patient needs, particularly in ambulatory care and geriatric settings. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance patient outcomes and stay ahead of the evolving therapeutic landscape.

The Pressure Puzzle: Tailoring Hypertension Therapy for Older Adults - BCACP / BCGP Credit

Blood pressure goals for older adults in the last two decades have varied. This session will examine the history of blood pressure goals in older adults and tie these goals to literature and examine blood pressure goals in terms of lowering major adverse cardiac events. This session will explore the use and selection of specific medication classes and agents in older adults and discuss the BRACE tool to aid in selection of anti-hypertensives.

Rx for Recovery: Understanding and Treating Substance Use Disorders - BCACP / BCGP Credit

Millions of Americans have died from alcohol-related causes and drug (most notably opioid)-related overdoses in the past 20 years.  Substance use disorders are increasingly a concern within our country and medical communities, however, they remain significantly undertreated, despite having several pharmacotherapy options available that are evidenced to reduce harmful substance use and its related morbidity and mortality.  In response, several legislative changes have been implemented to broaden and open access to care for individuals with SUDs.  Several states have further legislated changes to reduce these restrictions and, in many cases, authorize pharmacists to combat this disease as part of the care process.​Pharmacists attending this session will enhance their skills in addressing SUD in their practice and expand their knowledge of evidence-based practice specifically in the areas of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD)—two of the most prevalent and consequential SUDs.  This session will focus on the treatment of adult and older adult populations in an ambulatory care practice setting and provide additional resources for those interested in implementing SUD care into their practices.​