YESTERDAY . . .

On September 10, 1879 four Missouri pharmacists met in the Boone County Court House in Columbia to plan for a professional organization of Missouri pharmacists.  Specifically, they wanted to unite pharmacists in efforts to repeal a new law which placed frustrating limitations on the profession of pharmacy, but they also envisioned an organization dedicated to protecting and promoting pharmacy's needs and interests in Missouri.

Their challenge to all Missouri pharmacists to meet in Sedalia on October 29, 1879 ushered in colorful period in Missouri pharmacy history.  The 62 pharmacists who answered their call responded to the idea of a professional organization and became charter members of the Missouri Pharmaceutical Association (MPA).

Efforts of the fledgling organization resulted in the repeal of the unfavorable laws.  In 1881 new legislation, written by the MPA, established Missouri's first Board of Pharmacy and set standards for pharmacy practice.

Through the years MPA has continued to support legislation to improve the practice of pharmacy in Missouri, and to oppose legislation which could be detrimental to the profession.  Legislators rely on input from the MPA when proposed laws are dealing with pharmacy issues.

TODAY . . .

The Missouri Pharmacy Association is a committed group of professional pharmacists with high standards and goals, both for themselves and their profession.  MPA has a rich history of involvement in pharmacy issues on state and national levels.  With membership, a pharmacist joins others who support the professional ideas for which pharmacy stands.  In today's changing health care environment, it is critical that pharmacists' voices are heard and that the pharmacy's interests are protected so that both the profession and the public may have the best in pharmacy care and service.  These are the reasons for the Association.

During the past year, MPA has been busy in many areas of pharmacy: maintaining relationships with the Missouri Board of Pharmacy to protect pharmacy interests; interacting with the state legislature and participating in the legislative process to promote and maintain our profession in the state; participating in educational activities with both colleges of pharmacy; representing pharmacy with the news media and consumer groups; and working with a variety of pharmacy organizations on the national level.  All these activities are vital to the survival of our profession in these changing times.

The Missouri Pharmacy Association was organized 127 years ago to serve the profession of pharmacy and its members.  Involvement by pharmacists all over the state assures MPA's success.  Should you have any questions, concerns, or comments about the Association, please contact any of the MPA staff or officers.

Click here for driving directions to MPA.