NACDS members can generate reports that show members of Congress what their constituents think about pharmacy issues.
With opinion research unveiled during the 2017 NACDS Annual Meeting, NACDS members can show members of Congress what their constituents think about key elements of pharmacy’s “Access Agenda.” Here’s how you can put these resources to work for you.
Q: How do I find the research?
A: Here it is! You also can access the public opinion dashboard through AccessAgenda.NACDS.org – under “Agenda.”
Q: What is the difference between the public section of the dashboard and the NACDS members-only section?
A: National research results and state-by-state results are available to all. The data specific to each of the 435 Congressional Districts is available exclusively to NACDS members.
Q: Do I need a password to access the NACDS members-only data?
A: Yes – and it is the same password that members already use for other members-only content, such as the NACDS Membership Directory. When you click on the button to access the members-only data, there will be options to help you set up your account, or for help if you don’t remember your password.
Our whole point is that we are as accessible to lawmakers for policy solutions as we are to their constituents for help with health and wellness.
Q: I have entered the members-only section – now what?
A: Scroll down and you can see the national data on your screen. You’ll see a blue box that says “Choose a State to Learn More” – and you can select a state to see its data. If you are in the members-only section, you also will have the ability to select a Congressional District. In the members-only section, in addition to the opinion research you will see the number of NACDS-member pharmacies and the number of people employed in those locations. On the blue navigation bar at the top of the members-only section, you also will be able to download more information about the opinion research, as well as printable PDF documents that can be used as handouts in meetings with members of Congress.
Q: How do I generate a printable report for a state or Congressional District?
A: Once you have used the website functionality to select the state and Congressional District that you are interested in, go to the top of the screen and click the green “Create Report” button. The “Create Report” button creates a PDF for whatever state and/or Congressional District you’ve selected.
Q: What are some important points about the research?
A: Our whole point is that we are as accessible to lawmakers for policy solutions as we are to their constituents for help with health and wellness. The question suggests very positive public perceptions about our specific issues, too. You will see a question about the public’s support for enhanced access within Medicare to pharmacist-provided services. That supports the concept of the Pharmacy and Medically Underserved Areas Enhancement Act (H.R. 592 and S. 109). You also will see a question about support for pharmacy benefits in various federal programs – and that makes a powerful statement amid the current review of the Affordable Care Act and other existing policy.
Q: Tell me more about this research initiative.
A: NACDS commissioned the research, which was conducted by Morning Consult. The poll that is currently featured was conducted March 2-13, 2017, among a national sample of 20,051 registered voters. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of +/- 1 percentage point. More questions will be fielded throughout the year – and we will keep you updated about new insights and resources.
Q: What if I need some help using the research dashboard, or have questions?
A: Reach out to Chris Krese, NACDS’ senior vice president of marketing, communications and media relations – he would love to hear from you (CKrese@nacds.org).
