The Dakota Pharmaceutical Association was organized August 3, 1885, in Fargo by pharmacists concerned about the quality of pharmacy practice in the northern part of the Dakota Territory. There were no licensure requirements for pharmacists and pharmacies and the goal of the group was to organize to advance the profession by promoting standards for pharmacists to meet. Following statehood the organization was recognized as the North Dakota Pharmaceutical Association. The articles of incorporation were renewed in 1935. In April 2004, at the annual convention, the members voted to change the association’s name to the North Dakota Pharmacists Association.

Objectives

As the professional society representing all pharmacists in the state the objectives of the NDPhA are to act as the leader:

in advocating the role of the pharmacist as an essential provider of healthcare
to support pharmacists in providing optimal pharmaceutical care;
to encourage and assist pharmacists to use profitable methods to add value to their pharmacy knowledge base;
and by working to improve pharmacists' services and delivery of products needed by health care consumers.

Organization

The NDPhA is governed by a 15 person Board of Directors consisting of officers and representatives from each of the eight districts designated by the Association. The board meets two times each year along with leaders of other pharmacy organizations in the state. Objectives of the NDPhA are carried out through district organizations, appointed committees, and the office of the Executive Vice President.

Membership

Active Membership of the NDPhA includes all pharmacists licensed to practice pharmacy in the State of North Dakota. Pharmacists who hold active licensure are automatically included as members through a legislated arrangement with the State Board of Pharmacy. This arrangement insures that all practicing pharmacists have access to up-to-date information about changes in pharmacy practice and have a voice in governing the NDPhA. Associate Membership is open to other persons interested in advancing the profession of pharmacy. This membership provides persons with all the rights and privileges of active membership with the exception of voting. Associate membership is an excellent way to keep up with the dynamic changes that the profession is making. Use the Associate Membership form to become a member of the NDPhA. Student Membership is open to students registered in an accredited College of Pharmacy, upon application and payment of dues to a student chapter recognized by the Board of Directors. Contact the NDPhA for details.