Unlocking Advanced Care: Essential Pharmacology CME for Nurse Practitioners

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, nurse practitioners (NPs) play a pivotal role in providing advanced care. This critical responsibility demands a solid foundation in pharmacology, equipping NPs with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding medication management and patient safety. Unlocking Advanced Care: Essential Pharmacology CME for Nurse Practitioners highlights the importance of continuous education in this field. With an ever-growing arsenal of medications and treatment protocols, staying updated is not just beneficial but essential for delivering optimal patient outcomes. By engaging with advanced pharmacology continuing medical education (CME), NPs can enhance their proficiency, ensuring they remain at the forefront of patient-centered care. This article explores the benefits of pursuing pharmacology CME, offering insights into valuable resources and strategies that empower NPs to refine their expertise and ultimately transform the healthcare experience for their patients. Join us as we delve into the vital role of pharmacology education in shaping the future of nursing practice.

Importance of Continuing Medical Education (CME) in Pharmacology

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, nurse practitioners (NPs) are at the forefront of delivering advanced patient care. To maintain their competency and keep pace with the latest developments, NPs must engage in continuous medical education (CME). This ongoing educational pursuit is particularly critical in the realm of pharmacology, where new medications and treatment protocols are constantly emerging. CME in pharmacology ensures that NPs remain well-informed about current and effective medication management strategies, ultimately enhancing patient safety and care outcomes.

The dynamic nature of pharmacology, driven by rapid scientific advancements and the introduction of innovative drugs, presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare providers. For NPs, staying updated with these changes is not merely an option but a professional responsibility. Continuous education in pharmacology allows NPs to refine their prescribing practices, understand drug interactions, and recognize potential side effects, all of which are crucial for optimizing patient care. Furthermore, engaging in CME fosters a culture of lifelong learning, which is essential for adapting to the complexities of modern healthcare.

Moreover, pharmacology CME helps NPs navigate the increasingly complex healthcare landscape. With the growing emphasis on personalized medicine, NPs must be adept at tailoring pharmacological treatments to individual patient needs. This requires a deep understanding of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacogenomics. By participating in advanced pharmacology CME, NPs can acquire this specialized knowledge, thereby enhancing their clinical decision-making skills and improving patient outcomes. Ultimately, continuous education in pharmacology empowers NPs to provide high-quality, evidence-based care, reinforcing their role as integral members of the healthcare team.

Key Pharmacological Concepts Every Nurse Practitioner Should Know

A solid grasp of fundamental pharmacological concepts is indispensable for nurse practitioners aiming to deliver safe and effective patient care. Among these core principles, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are paramount. Pharmacokinetics involves the study of how drugs move through the body, encompassing absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Understanding these processes enables NPs to predict the onset, duration, and intensity of a drug's action, facilitating more precise dosing and minimizing adverse effects.

Pharmacodynamics, on the other hand, examines how drugs interact with biological systems to produce therapeutic effects. This includes the mechanisms of drug action at the cellular and molecular levels, as well as the relationship between drug concentration and response. Mastery of pharmacodynamics allows NPs to select appropriate medications based on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic targets, ensuring that treatments are both effective and tailored to individual patient needs. Additionally, knowledge of receptor theory, enzyme inhibition, and signal transduction pathways is crucial for understanding the nuanced effects of various drugs.

Another vital concept is the understanding of drug interactions, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. Drug interactions can occur at multiple levels, including pharmacokinetic interactions (e.g., altered drug metabolism) and pharmacodynamic interactions (e.g., synergistic or antagonistic effects). NPs must be vigilant in identifying potential interactions between prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. This knowledge helps prevent adverse reactions and ensures the safe and effective use of pharmacotherapy. By mastering these key pharmacological concepts, NPs can enhance their clinical decision-making and contribute to better patient care.

Current Trends in Pharmacology for Advanced Practice

The field of pharmacology is continually evolving, with new trends and innovations shaping the landscape of advanced practice. One significant trend is the growing emphasis on personalized medicine, which aims to tailor pharmacological treatments to individual patient characteristics, such as genetic makeup, lifestyle, and comorbidities. Advances in pharmacogenomics, the study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs, are at the forefront of this movement. By understanding genetic variations that influence drug metabolism and response, NPs can make more informed decisions about medication selection and dosing, ultimately enhancing treatment efficacy and minimizing adverse effects.

Another emerging trend is the increasing use of biologics and biosimilars in clinical practice. Biologics are complex, protein-based drugs derived from living organisms, used to treat various conditions, including autoimmune diseases and cancers. Biosimilars are highly similar to biologics but are typically more cost-effective. The introduction of these advanced therapies has revolutionized treatment options for many patients. NPs must stay abreast of the latest developments in biologics and biosimilars, understanding their mechanisms of action, therapeutic indications, and potential side effects to ensure optimal patient care.

Telehealth and digital health technologies are also transforming pharmacological practice. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telehealth, enabling NPs to provide remote consultations and medication management. Digital health tools, such as mobile apps and wearable devices, facilitate real-time monitoring of patient adherence and response to medications. These technologies offer valuable insights into patient behavior and treatment outcomes, allowing NPs to adjust pharmacotherapy plans promptly. Embracing these trends in pharmacology not only enhances the delivery of care but also positions NPs at the cutting edge of modern healthcare.

Overview of Essential Pharmacology CME Courses

Continuing medical education (CME) courses in pharmacology are designed to equip nurse practitioners with the latest knowledge and skills to manage medications effectively. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from foundational principles to specialized areas, ensuring comprehensive learning for NPs at all stages of their careers. One essential course is "Advanced Pharmacology for Nurse Practitioners," which delves into the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of various drug classes, drug interactions, and evidence-based prescribing practices. This course provides a robust foundation for NPs, enabling them to make informed decisions in clinical settings.

For NPs seeking to specialize in specific areas, there are CME courses focused on niche topics such as "Pharmacology in Geriatric Patients" and "Pharmacotherapy for Chronic Diseases." The former addresses the unique pharmacological considerations for elderly patients, including age-related physiological changes, polypharmacy, and the management of chronic conditions. The latter explores the pharmacological treatment of prevalent chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disorders, emphasizing the latest guidelines and therapeutic strategies. These specialized courses enable NPs to tailor their pharmacological knowledge to the needs of specific patient populations.

Additionally, CME courses on "Pharmacogenomics" and "Biologics and Biosimilars" are increasingly important as personalized medicine and advanced therapies gain prominence. These courses provide insights into the genetic factors influencing drug response and the use of biologic agents in clinical practice. By integrating pharmacogenomic data into treatment plans and understanding the nuances of biologics, NPs can enhance the precision and effectiveness of their prescribing practices. Overall, essential pharmacology CME courses offer a wealth of knowledge that empowers NPs to elevate their practice and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

How to Choose the Right Pharmacology CME Program

Selecting the right pharmacology CME program is crucial for nurse practitioners seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills. The first step in choosing a program is to assess its accreditation and credibility. Accredited CME programs are vetted by reputable organizations, such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), ensuring that the content meets high standards of quality and relevance. NPs should prioritize programs that offer recognized credits, as these are often required for maintaining licensure and certification.

Another important consideration is the program's curriculum and learning objectives. The best CME programs provide a comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum that covers essential pharmacological concepts, current trends, and practical applications. NPs should look for courses that align with their specific learning needs and career goals, whether they seek to deepen their understanding of general pharmacology or specialize in areas such as geriatrics, chronic disease management, or pharmacogenomics. Additionally, programs that incorporate case studies, interactive modules, and real-world scenarios can enhance the learning experience and facilitate the application of knowledge in clinical practice.

Flexibility and accessibility are also key factors in selecting a CME program. Many NPs juggle demanding work schedules and personal commitments, so it is important to choose programs that offer flexible learning options, such as online courses, self-paced modules, and on-demand webinars. These formats allow NPs to engage in continuous education at their convenience, without compromising their professional responsibilities. Furthermore, programs that provide ongoing support, such as access to expert faculty, discussion forums, and supplementary resources, can enhance the learning journey and ensure that NPs gain the maximum benefit from their CME experience.

Benefits of Advanced Pharmacology Training for Patient Care

Advanced pharmacology training offers numerous benefits for nurse practitioners, significantly enhancing patient care and outcomes. One of the primary advantages is the improvement in medication management. With advanced training, NPs gain a deeper understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, enabling them to optimize drug selection, dosing, and administration. This knowledge helps minimize the risk of adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and medication errors, leading to safer and more effective treatment plans for patients.

Enhanced clinical decision-making is another key benefit of advanced pharmacology training. NPs equipped with in-depth pharmacological knowledge can make more informed decisions regarding the initiation, modification, and discontinuation of medications. This is particularly important in complex cases where patients have multiple comorbidities or are on polypharmacy regimens. Advanced training empowers NPs to evaluate the risks and benefits of various therapeutic options, consider patient-specific factors, and develop individualized treatment plans that align with the best available evidence.

Furthermore, advanced pharmacology training supports the holistic and patient-centered approach to care. By understanding the intricate details of drug mechanisms, side effects, and interactions, NPs can engage in more meaningful conversations with patients about their medications. This fosters greater patient education, adherence, and involvement in their own care. Patients who are well-informed about their treatment options and potential side effects are more likely to adhere to their medication regimens, leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life. Ultimately, advanced pharmacology training enhances the ability of NPs to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care that addresses the unique needs of each individual.

Integrating Pharmacology Knowledge into Clinical Practice

Integrating advanced pharmacology knowledge into clinical practice is essential for nurse practitioners to deliver effective and safe patient care. One of the key strategies for successful integration is the application of evidence-based guidelines and protocols. NPs should stay updated with the latest clinical guidelines and best practices in pharmacotherapy, ensuring that their prescribing decisions are grounded in the most current and robust evidence. By adhering to these guidelines, NPs can enhance the consistency, quality, and safety of their medication management practices.

Collaboration and interdisciplinary communication are also vital for integrating pharmacology knowledge into practice. NPs should work closely with other healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, physicians, and nursing staff, to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. This collaborative approach allows for the sharing of valuable insights and expertise, facilitating the development of optimal treatment plans. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and case discussions can help NPs stay informed about the latest pharmacological advancements and address complex patient cases effectively.

Incorporating patient education and engagement is another critical aspect of integrating pharmacology knowledge into practice. NPs should take the time to educate patients about their medications, including the purpose, expected benefits, potential side effects, and proper administration. Providing clear and concise information helps patients understand their treatment regimens, promoting adherence and empowerment. Additionally, involving patients in the decision-making process and addressing their concerns fosters a collaborative and trusting relationship, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care. By integrating advanced pharmacology knowledge into clinical practice, NPs can optimize medication management and improve patient outcomes.

Resources for Ongoing Pharmacology Education

To stay current with the ever-evolving field of pharmacology, nurse practitioners must have access to reliable and up-to-date educational resources. Professional organizations, such as the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Nurses Association (ANA), offer a wealth of resources for ongoing pharmacology education. These organizations provide access to accredited CME courses, webinars, conferences, and journals, ensuring that NPs have continuous opportunities to expand their pharmacological knowledge and skills.

Online platforms and educational websites are also valuable resources for NPs seeking ongoing pharmacology education. Websites like Medscape, UpToDate, and PubMed offer a vast array of articles, research studies, and clinical guidelines that can help NPs stay informed about the latest pharmacological advancements. These platforms often feature interactive learning modules, case studies, and expert commentaries, providing a dynamic and engaging learning experience. Additionally, online forums and communities, such as those on LinkedIn or specialized nursing networks, allow NPs to connect with peers, share insights, and discuss current trends and challenges in pharmacology.

Pharmaceutical companies and medical institutions also play a role in providing educational resources. Many pharmaceutical companies offer educational materials, webinars, and training sessions on their products, helping NPs understand the indications, mechanisms of action, and safety profiles of new medications. Medical institutions and academic centers often host workshops, seminars, and grand rounds that cover various pharmacological topics. Attending these events can provide NPs with hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to interact with experts in the field. By leveraging these diverse resources, NPs can ensure they remain at the forefront of pharmacology and continue to provide high-quality, evidence-based care.

Conclusion: Elevating Care Through Advanced Pharmacology Education

In conclusion, the importance of advanced pharmacology education for nurse practitioners cannot be overstated. As key healthcare providers, NPs play a critical role in medication management and patient safety. Engaging in continuous medical education in pharmacology is essential for staying updated with the latest developments, refining clinical decision-making skills, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care. By understanding key pharmacological concepts, staying informed about current trends, and selecting the right CME programs, NPs can significantly enhance their practice and improve patient outcomes.

The benefits of advanced pharmacology training extend beyond individual practice, contributing to the broader healthcare system's effectiveness and efficiency. Well-informed NPs are better equipped to manage complex patient cases, reduce medication errors, and promote adherence to treatment regimens. This leads to improved patient health, reduced hospitalizations, and overall better healthcare experiences. Furthermore, the integration of pharmacology knowledge into clinical practice, supported by ongoing education and collaboration, fosters a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in patient care.

Ultimately, the commitment to advanced pharmacology education reflects the dedication of nurse practitioners to their profession and their patients. By staying at the forefront of pharmacological knowledge, NPs can navigate the complexities of modern healthcare with confidence and competence. This dedication to lifelong learning not only enhances the individual practitioner's skills but also elevates the entire nursing profession. As healthcare continues to evolve, advanced pharmacology education will remain a cornerstone of exceptional nursing practice, empowering NPs to unlock advanced care and transform the healthcare experience for their patients.

CE FOR PHARMACISTS: FIND YOUR STATE’S REQUIREMENTS

Pharmacists Continuing Education pharmacy CE  (CE) requirements vary by state. Here, we have compiled all of the locations where you can find your most up-to-date pharmacy CE needs. Links to boards have be verified to work.

CE for Pharmacists: Requirements by State

Pharmacy Board Contact Information	Requirement	Term	CE Requirements
Alabama (205) 981-2280 http://www.albop.com/	30 CE hours 6 Live 24 General	The renewal period for Alabama pharmacist licenses in 2025 is from October 1 to December 31	Pharmacists shall obtain no less than 15 hours of approved continuing (CE) ONLY ACPE approved programs or courses may be used to satisfy Continuing Education requirements.
Alaska (907) 465-2550 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 CE hours 29 General 1 Immunization, if immunization certified	All medical licenses in Alaska are on a two-year cycle, with all licenses expiring December 31 of even-numbered years.	30 hours of continuing education accepted by the board.
Arizona (602) 771-2727 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 CE hours 3 Opioid/substance-use disorder/addiction-related 2 Immunizations 2 tobacco cessation 3 self-administered hormonal contraceptives 20 General	The renewal cycle is two years, and the license expires on October 31, 2025. The next education due date is also October 31, 2025.	30 contact hours (3.0 CEU's) of continuing education activity sponsored by an Approved Provider, of which at least three contact hours (0.3CEU's) are approved courses in pharmacy law.
Arkansas (501) 682-0190 Board of Pharmacy Website	Pharmacists 30 CE hours 12 Live 2 Immunization 16 General	Renewal Cycle in Years: 2 License Expiration Date: 12/31/2025	Thirty (30) hours of continuing education every biennium. A minimum of twelve (12) continuing education hours of the thirty (30) required hours, must be accredited by the ACPE.
California (916) 547-7900 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 CE hours 1 Board issued CE in Law 1 board issued CE in Ethics 1 Cultural Competency	The renewal cycle for California State Board of Pharmacy licenses opens on February 1, 2025 and closes on March 30, 2025.	Pharmacists are required to have completed a total of 30 hours of continuing education during the renewal period. If a CE course is not accredited by the ACPE or the Pharmacy Foundation of California, you may petition the board for CE credit.
Colorado (303) 894-7800 Board of Pharmacy Website	24 CE hours 24 General, up to 6 pharmacy-related CME hours are acceptable.	Expire on October 31 of odd-numbered years. .	24 hours of continuing pharmaceutical education currently approved by the ACPE or an equivalent accrediting body as determined by the board.
Connecticut (860) 713-6070 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 5 Live 9 General 1 Law	In Connecticut, pharmacy licenses expire annually on August 31st	15; At least one of the fifteen contact hours shall be on the subject matter of pharmacy law or drug law.
Delaware (302) 744-4500 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 2 Medication Safety/Errors 2 Controlled Substances 2 Immunization if authorized in immunization 26 General	Pharmacists in Delaware are required to renew their licenses biennially, with all registrations set to expire on June 30 of odd-numbered years.	30; At least 2 hours must be medication safety/errors. Board approved providers are any approved by ACPE.
District of Columbia (877) 672-2174 Board of Pharmacy Website	40 hours 10 Live 2 Medication/Dispensing Errors 2 Cultural competency 2 Immunizations if immunization certified, 10% of total required CE in subjects determined by director of department of health	In the District of Columbia, pharmacist licenses expire on February 28 of odd-numbered years and must be renewed online through the pharmacy renewal portal	40 hours with 2 hours in Medication Errors and 2 hours in HIV Awareness, Treatment, or Preparedness. Pharmacists certified to administer immunizations shall complete 2 hours each renewal period on administration of immunizations and vaccinations.
Florida (850) 245-4292 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 26 General 10 Live 2 Controlled substances (must be board approved) 2 Medication errors (must be board approved)	The renewal date for a Florida pharmacist license is September 30	30 hours of approved CE within the 24 month period prior to the expiration date of the license per biennium (two year licensure period), 2 hours Pharmaceutical Education on medical errors per biennium (may be counted towards required CE hours). 10 hours must be either live or interactive computer-based.
Georgia (404) 651-8000 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	Georgia pharmacist licenses expire on December 31 of even numbered years	30 hours of approved CE.
Hawaii (808) 586-2697 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	All Licenses regardless of issuance date, are subject to renewal by December 31 of every odd-numbered year.	30 hours of approved CE.
Idaho (208) 334-3233 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 15 General - Up to three hours of CME credit will be accepted as long as it meets the requirements of Rule 213.02.	Registered Licensed Pharmacists must renew their license every year by June 30​th	15 contact hours; At a minimum, 12 hours will be all or a combination of ACPE or Continuing Medical Education (CME) approved programs. One hour must be Board of Pharmacy approved jurisprudence (pharmacy law) programs. A maximum of 3 hours may be Board approved non-APCE approved programs.
Illinois Pharmacy Board Contact Information (888) 473-4858 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 2 Immunization, if immunization certified Sexual Harassment Cultural Competencies/Implicit Bias	2	30 hours of approved CE.
Indiana (317) 234-2067 https://www.in.gov/pla/professions/pharmacy-home/	30 hours 24 Pharmacy related 6 business, management or computer-related 15 ACPE accredited	2	30; A maximum of one-fifth (1/5) of the total hours may be business, management, or computer courses. At least four-fifths (4/5) of the total hours must be pharmacy practice related. least one-half (1/2) of the total hours must be provided by sponsors approved by ACPE.
Iowa (515) 281-5944 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 11 General 15 Drug-therapy 2 Law 2 Patient or medication safety	Due Date: On 6/30 every 2 years based on initial licensure year	30; ACPE accredited activities - 15 hours must be in drug-therapy (01-P or 02-P). At least 2 hours of CE in pharmacy law (03-P) and 2 hours of CE in medication/patient safety (05-P).
Kansas (785) 296-4056 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General (1 CE must be a course designated by the Kansas board of pharmacy)	2	30 hours of approved CE.
Kentucky (502) 564-7910 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 1 Opioid epidemic or opioid use disorder	1	15 hours of general pharmacy continuing education completed and certified by December 31, Pharmacists must submit CE list with their annual renewal. All courses and/or providers shall be Kentucky Board of Pharmacy or ACPE approved. A 1 hour Board approved HIV/AIDS course must be taken at least once every 10 years.
Louisiana (225) 925-6496 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 12 General 3 Live  OR total of 20 general if not satisfying 3 live requirement	1	15 hours of ACPE-approved education. 3 hours must be live or an additional 5 hours of non-live is required.
Maine (207) 624-8620 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 13 General 2 Drug Administration	1	15 hours of board approved continuing education is required with renewal - at least 2 hours must be in board-approved courses on drug administration.
Maryland (410) 764-4755 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 CE hours 23 General 2 Live 1 Medication errors 1 Contraception (if prescribing contraceptives) 4 Immunizations (if immunization certified) One-time Maryland approved implicit bias training at first license renewal	Due Date: Last day of birth month every 2 years after initial license	30 hours. 2 hours on preventing medication errors.
Massachusetts (800) 414-0168 Board of Pharmacy Website	20 hours 5 Live 2 Law 1 immunization if immunization certified	2	30; A registrant seeking renewal of a personal registration must complete a minimum of 1.5 CEUs (15 contact hours) each calendar year of the two-year renewal cycle. Of the 15 contact hours, at least two contact hours shall be in the area of pharmacy law; and not more than ten contact hours shall be acquired through home study or correspondence.
Michigan (517) 335-0918 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 10 Live 1 Pain management 1 Law 2 Implicit bias 1 time training on human trafficking	Due Date: Every 2 years after initial renewal	30; at least 1 hour in pain management.
Minnesota (651) 201-2825 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	2	30 hours of approved CE.
Missouri (573) 751-0091 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	2	30 contact hours per biennium; no carry over is allowed.
Montana (406) 444-6880 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 5 Live 10 General  OR 20 hours if none are live	1	15 required each renewal period. 1.5 CEUs (10 hours = 1 CEU) with 0.5 CEU obtained in an approved contact/group hours or 2.0 CEUs if a pharmacist does not take at least 0.5 CEU in an approved contact/group program.
Nebraska (402) 471-2118 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	2	30 hours of ACPE-approved continuing education required for each renewal period (no restrictions on home study versus live). Board accepts activities from ACPE accredited providers.
Nevada (775) 850-1440 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 29 General 1 Nevada Law	2	30; 1 hour on pharmacy law is required (must be Board approved).
New Hampshire (603) 271-2350 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 20 General 10 Live	1	15; carry over is not allowed
New Jersey (973) 504-6450 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 10 Live 3 Law 1 opioids 2 Immunizations if immunization certified	2	30; 3 hours on pharmacy law, applicable to practice in NJ is required. Renews April 30 every 2 years
New Mexico (505) 222-9830 Board of Pharmacy Website	Due Date: 30 hours 10 Live 2 Law 2 Patient safety 2 Safe use of opioids	Last day of birth month every 2 years	30 contact hours for license renewal including (2)hours in the subject area pharmacy law by attending a Board of Pharmacy law program. Pharmacists with an active license, who do not practice pharmacy in this state, may substitute an ACPE accredited program in the subject area Pharmacy Law in lieu of attending a Board approved program in New Mexico. 2 hours in Pharmacy Safety.
New York (518) 474-3817 x130 Board of Pharmacy Website	: 45 hours 23 Live 3 Medication errors 3 Pharmaceutical compounding	Due Date Last day of birth month every 3 years	A minimum of 45 contact hours is required in each three-year registration period, at least 3 of the required hours must be formal continuing education on strategies and techniques to reduce medication and prescription errors.
North Carolina (919) 246-1050 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 5 Live 3 Immunizations every 2 years if immunization certified	Due Date: 12/31	15; 8 of these hours must be "contact" activities. Online activities can be considered "contact" if two-way communication between faculty and attendee is available.
North Dakota (701) 877-2404 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 15 General	Due Date: 2/28	30 hours of approved CE.
Ohio (614) 466-4143 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 26 General 2 Medication errors/patient safety 2 Law	Due Date: 9/15	60 contact hours (6 CEUs) of approved continuing education shall be submitted by the date indicated on the continuing pharmacy education report form and at intervals not to exceed three years. At least 0.3 CEUs of the total must be obtained from Ohio state board of pharmacy approved programs in jurisprudence.
Oklahoma (405) 521-3815 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 15 General	Due Date: Last day of credential holder's birth month every year	15 hours of approved CE.
Oregon (971) 673-0001 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 Hours 23 General 2 Pharmacy law 2 Patient safety or medication error prevention 2 Cultural competency 1 Pain management (provided by Oregon pain management commission)	Due Date: 6/30	15; minimum of one hour must be completed in the area of pharmacy or drug law or legal aspects of health care. 11 hours must be in therapeutics. There is a one-time requirement of 7 hours in pain management.
Pennsylvania (717) 783-7156 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 24 General 2 Child abuse recognition 2 Pain management or identification of addiction, practices of prescribing or dispensing of opioids 2 Patient safety 2 immunization if immunization certified	Due Date: 9/30	30; For licensees with the authority to administer injectable medications, biologicals or immunizations, 2 hours are required in the administration of injectables including disease epidemiology, vaccine characteristics, injection technique, emergency responses to adverse events and related topics. 2 of the 30 contact hours required for the renewal of a pharmacist license shall be completed in the ACPE topic designator "Patient Safety (“05”).
Rhode Island (401) 222-2840 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 10 General 5 Live 1 Immunizations if immunization certified	Due Date: 6/30	15 hours of approved CE.
South Carolina (803) 896-4700 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 7.5 Drug therapy or patient management 1 Controlled Substances 1 Hormonal contraceptives 1 Immunization if immunization certified	Due Date: 4/30	15; At least fifty percent of the total number of hours required must be in drug therapy or patient management. Hours completed in excess of the requirement may be carried forward for credit in the next license year but may not be carried forward for more than one license year.
South Dakota (605) 362-2737 Board of Pharmacy Website	12 hours 12 General 1 immunization if immunization certified	Due Date: 9/30	12 hours of approved CE.
Tennessee (615) 253-1299 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 15 Live 15 General	Due Date: Every 2 years after initial renewal	30 hours of approved CE.
Texas (512) 305-8000 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 28 General 1 Texas-specific law 1 Human Trafficking	Due Date: Every 2 years after initial renewal	30 hours of approved CE.
Utah (801) 530-6628 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 15 General 15 Drug Therapy 12 Live 1 Law	Due Date: 9/30	30; minimum of 15 hours in drug therapy or patient management and 1 hour of laws & ethics.
Vermont (802) 828-2733 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 10 Live 2 controlled substances 20 General (2 immunization if immunization certified)  No carry over credit is allowed.	Due Date: 7/31	30 hours of approved CE.
Virginia (804) 367-4456 Board of Pharmacy Website	15 hours 12 General 3 Live	Due Date: 12/31	15; added 12/22/14: 1 hour of opioid use of abuse-one time requirement
Washington (360) 236-4946 Board of Pharmacy Website	Due Date: 30 hours 30 General (1-time 3-hour training on suicide prevention and awareness with first license renewal)	Credential holder's birthday every 2 years	15 hours of approved CE.
West Virginia (304) 558-0558 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 6 hours must be live and 2 hours must be WVA Board of Pharmacy approved CE related to drug diversion unless a waiver is signed 22 General 2 immunization annually if immunization certified	Due Date: 6/30	30; 3 hours on drug diversion and best practice prescribing of controlled substances in 1st year of licensing period. All pharmacists registered as consultants must have 3 hours of CE in consulting practice each year. Program must be submitted to Board for approval and assignment of number.
Wisconsin (608) 266-2112 Board of Pharmacy Website	30 hours 30 General	Due Date: 5/31/	30 hours of approved CE.
Wyoming (307) 634-9636636 Board of Pharmacy Web Site	12 hours 1.5 controlled substances 10.5 general 1 immunization if immunization certified	Due Date: 12/31	12 hours of approved CE.