FAQ - NCPD National Coalition of Pharmaceutical Distributors

NCPD FAQ
Who is in NCPD?
NCPD is a coalition of independent pharmaceutical distributors who have joined together to combine resources and to provide their industry a common voice on a national level.

Why was NCPD formed?
NCPD was formed for several reasons. The regulatory climate at both the State and Federal levels has become increasingly restrictive and complicated for pharmaceutical distributors over the past few years. It is becoming prohibitively expensive for small and independent pharmaceutical distributors to keep up with frequent regulatory changes and the interpretation of new laws. These distributors are finding themselves using more resources and incurring higher costs than ever before. NPCD is committed to providing its members with timely information and updates to remove the burden from each individual member, freeing their time and resources for customer relations and sales activities.

Even more importantly, because it is more imminent, is the so-called FDA Final Rule which is scheduled to take effect on December 2, 2006. The way this Rule is currently written, the majority of small and independent pharmaceutical distributors will no longer be able to do any business with prescription pharmaceuticals. NCPD and its members feel that this Rule must be addressed as quickly as possible in order to preserve not just market share, but their very ability to practice business in their industry. NCPD must fight for its members today so that they are still in business tomorrow.

What does NCPD hope to accomplish?
The National Coalition of Pharmaceutical Distributors shall represent and promote the value of small and independent pharmaceutical distributors with respect to legislatures, regulatory organizations, manufacturers, dispensers, and the community at large through rigorous advocacy in order to preserve the businesses of its members, to ensure distribution system efficiency and to uphold public safety.

How does NCPD intend to proceed?
Our first goal is to ensure that each NCPD member is a qualified and outstanding member of the pharmaceutical distribution industry. By implementing a stringent member approval process and enforcing our member rules we will assure that NCPD is made up of only the most ethical and respected members in our industry. NCPD’s standards of excellence are for the greater benefit of the group, customers, and the community at large. The approval process includes an inspection of the prospective member’s facility or facilities, background checks on principals and Responsible Persons, and the collection of policies, procedures, and other information that helps NCPD determine that each member practices business at the highest possible level. By successfully gaining membership in NCPD, member companies will have held up under strict scrutiny, and therefore have our stamp of approval.

NCPD will also provide legal representation for lobbying and advocacy efforts, regulatory updates, and pedigree assurance. In addition, NCPD will launch a marketing campaign designed to promote the value of small and independent pharmaceutical distributors in the larger pharmaceutical market.

When will NCPD begin its activities?
The short answer is, “Immediately.” Time is of the essence. A proactive intervention is needed immediately on behalf of the small and independent pharmaceutical distributors industry. NCPD has several levels of membership to fit the needs of the various types of industry stakeholders. Regardless of size, every NCPD member has a voice in NCPD activities. We encourage any prospective member or interested party to contact NCPD as soon as possible for more information, or to begin the application process.

For more information contact info@ncpdusa.org