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Certified Hospital Pharmacy Operations Pharmacist (CHPOP)
Official Examination Content Outline
This document provides the official content outline for the Certified Hospital Pharmacy Operations Pharmacist (CHPOP) examination. The exam certifies that a pharmacist possesses the leadership and operational competencies required to manage a safe, efficient, and financially sound medication-use system in a hospital setting, from clinical review and product preparation to technology management, quality improvement, and human resource stewardship.
Examination Specifications
| Name of Credential | Certified Hospital Pharmacy Operations Pharmacist (CHPOP) |
|---|---|
| Certification-Issuing Body | The Council on Pharmacy Standards (CPS) |
| Designation Awarded | CHPOP |
| Target Population | Pharmacists in leadership or advanced operational roles within hospital and health-system inpatient settings. |
| Examination Length | 120 multiple-choice items |
| Administration Time | 3.0 hours |
Examination Content Outline
The CHPOP examination is weighted according to the six domains listed below, which cover the comprehensive responsibilities of a hospital pharmacy operations leader.
| Domain 1: Medication Order Management and Clinical Review | 20% |
| Domain 2: Medication Preparation and Dispensing | 20% |
| Domain 3: Automation, Technology, and Informatics | 15% |
| Domain 4: Operational Compliance, Safety, and Quality Systems | 15% |
| Domain 5: Leadership, Training, and Human Resource Management | 15% |
| Domain 6: Financial and Resource Stewardship | 15% |
Domain 1: Medication Order Management and Clinical Review (20%)
Task 1: Evaluate the clinical appropriateness of medication orders.
- Apply a systematic process to clinically screen and verify medication orders within the EHR.
- Differentiate medication appropriateness based on patient-specific parameters (e.g., diagnosis, organ function).
- Assess orders for appropriate therapeutic drug monitoring, dose adjustments, and duration of therapy.
- Analyze medication profiles to resolve therapeutic duplications and other prescribing problems.
- Coordinate with medical staff to resolve discrepancies or concerns identified during order verification.
Task 2: Design and manage medication reconciliation workflows.
- Develop operational workflows to support medication reconciliation upon admission, transfer, and discharge.
- Assess medication histories to identify and resolve discrepancies between home and inpatient medication orders.
- Implement policies to ensure a final, reconciled medication list is communicated to outpatient providers.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of transitions of care processes to ensure medication safety.
- Collaborate with nursing and physicians to optimize interdisciplinary reconciliation processes.
Task 3: Assess and resolve potential drug-related problems.
- Utilize clinical decision support systems to screen for drug-drug, drug-allergy, and drug-laboratory interactions.
- Differentiate the clinical significance of alerts to mitigate alert fatigue and focus on high-risk scenarios.
- Evaluate documented allergies and assess potential cross-sensitivities before dispensing.
- Manage order sets and protocols to minimize potential drug-related problems proactively.
- Recommend alternative therapies to prescribers when significant interactions are identified.
Task 4: Apply institutional protocols and formulary management policies.
- Execute automatic therapeutic interchange, IV-to-PO, and renal dosing protocols.
- Manage adherence to institutional policies for restricted medications and stewardship programs (e.g., antimicrobial, opioid).
- Design verification procedures to ensure compliance with policies for high-alert medications.
- Assess medication orders for compliance with the institution's approved formulary.
- Communicate formulary-driven changes and non-formulary requests to the medical team.
Task 5: Evaluate complex or high-risk medication orders.
- Analyze parenteral nutrition orders for appropriateness, stability, and compatibility.
- Verify that chemotherapy orders adhere to established treatment regimens and safety protocols.
- Perform independent double-checks of all complex or high-risk medication calculations.
- Assess the appropriateness of supportive care medications for complex regimens (e.g., chemotherapy).
- Reconcile orders against established protocols for patient-controlled analgesia and epidurals.
Task 6: Coordinate pharmacy services during clinical emergency response.
- Design the pharmacist's role and responsibilities during emergency codes (e.g., code blue) and rapid response calls.
- Manage the process for preparing and dispensing emergency medications.
- Evaluate medication therapy provided during a clinical emergency for appropriateness.
- Ensure accurate documentation of medications administered during an emergency event.
- Participate in post-event debriefings to identify opportunities for process improvement.
Domain 2: Medication Preparation and Dispensing (20%)
Task 1: Apply USP General Chapter <797> standards to sterile compounding operations.
- Design workflows that ensure consistent application of aseptic technique and proper garbing.
- Manage the environmental monitoring, cleaning, and certification of the cleanroom suite.
- Validate that appropriate beyond-use dates (BUDs) are assigned based on sterility risk level and storage.
- Assess staff competency through required quality assurance procedures like media-fill and gloved fingertip testing.
- Develop policies and procedures to maintain a constant state of compliance with USP <797>.
Task 2: Apply USP General Chapter <795> standards to non-sterile compounding operations.
- Evaluate compounding techniques for various non-sterile dosage forms to ensure product quality.
- Apply the principles of geometric dilution and other techniques to ensure a uniform mixture.
- Determine appropriate beyond-use dates (BUDs) for non-sterile preparations based on stability data.
- Design and maintain a system for complete and accurate compounding records.
- Assess the suitability of components and equipment used in non-sterile compounding.
Task 3: Apply USP General Chapter <800> standards to hazardous drug (HD) handling.
- Manage all containment strategies for the receipt, storage, compounding, and disposal of HDs.
- Assess the appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for all HD handling activities.
- Evaluate the performance of containment primary and secondary engineering controls.
- Design training and competency programs for all personnel who handle HDs.
- Develop a comprehensive plan for managing HD spills and personnel exposure events.
Task 4: Manage the product verification and final check process.
- Design a safe and efficient workflow for the final verification of medications prepared by technicians.
- Differentiate between tasks that require a pharmacist's check and those suitable for tech-check-tech programs.
- Utilize technology (e.g., barcode scanning, imaging) to enhance the accuracy of product verification.
- Assess the quality and accuracy of technician work and provide constructive feedback.
- Evaluate dispensing error rates and implement corrective actions to improve the verification process.
Task 5: Manage quality control for compounded and repackaged products.
- Design a quality assurance program for all in-house compounding and repackaging activities.
- Perform required quality control checks on finished preparations to ensure accuracy and integrity.
- Establish appropriate beyond-use dates for repackaged medications based on stability and packaging.
- Maintain comprehensive records of all repackaging and compounding activities for audit purposes.
- Investigate and resolve any out-of-specification results from quality control testing.
Task 6: Manage medication packaging and labeling to ensure patient safety.
- Select appropriate packaging for dispensed medications to maintain their stability and integrity.
- Design medication labels that comply with all state, federal, and institutional requirements.
- Apply safety strategies like tall man lettering and standardized concentrations on labels.
- Evaluate the use of auxiliary labels to provide clear instructions and warnings to healthcare providers.
- Assess the barcoding process to ensure scan-ability at the point of administration.
Domain 3: Automation, Technology, and Informatics (15%)
Task 1: Manage automated dispensing cabinet (ADC) systems.
- Design ADC configurations and inventory levels to optimize medication availability and security.
- Analyze ADC data (e.g., override reports, stockouts) to identify safety risks and workflow inefficiencies.
- Manage user access controls and security settings to prevent unauthorized access.
- Evaluate ADC performance to ensure system integrity and reliability.
- Troubleshoot and resolve discrepancies and other ADC-related issues in collaboration with nursing.
Task 2: Manage centralized pharmacy automation and robotics.
- Evaluate the operational performance of centralized automation (e.g., carousels, robotic fillers, IV workflow systems).
- Manage the packaging, barcoding, and calibration processes required for automated systems.
- Perform quality assurance checks to validate the accuracy of automated dispensing and compounding.
- Develop downtime procedures and contingency plans for automation failures.
- Assess the integration of robotics with the pharmacy information system to ensure data integrity.
Task 3: Utilize Pharmacy Informatics and Data Analytics for Decision-Making.
- Extract and analyze operational data from various systems (e.g., MAR, ADC, BCMA logs, EHR reports).
- Build and maintain operational dashboards for real-time monitoring of KPIs (e.g., turnaround times, workload, error rates).
- Apply predictive analytics to forecast medication inventory requirements and staffing needs.
- Translate data trends into actionable insights for process improvement and resource allocation.
- Present data-driven insights and business intelligence to leadership and hospital committees.
Task 4: Evaluate the performance of the integrated medication-use technology ecosystem.
- Assess the integration and data flow between the PIS, EHR, ADCs, and BCMA systems.
- Collaborate with IT to test and implement new system upgrades or functionality.
- Manage the pharmacy information system's drug database to ensure accuracy and clinical relevance.
- Analyze barcode medication administration (BCMA) scanning compliance and override data to identify safety risks.
- Investigate and resolve technology-related medication errors and near misses.
Task 5: Design and optimize medication distribution models.
- Differentiate the benefits and drawbacks of various models (e.g., centralized, decentralized, hybrid).
- Assess medication delivery workflows (e.g., STAT, routine, cart-fill) to improve efficiency and turnaround times.
- Develop a standardized process for crediting and returning unused medications to the pharmacy.
- Manage the security and integrity of medications throughout the distribution chain.
- Evaluate the need for alternative delivery methods, such as pneumatic tube systems or courier services.
Task 6: Manage pharmacy supply chain and inventory control systems.
- Apply inventory management principles (e.g., PAR levels, turnover rates) to optimize stock and minimize waste.
- Manage the process of ordering, receiving, and stocking medications from various suppliers.
- Develop and implement policies for handling drug product returns, recalls, and expired medications.
- Ensure compliance with the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA) during medication receipt and transfer.
- Utilize inventory management software to track stock and automate purchasing.
Domain 4: Operational Compliance, Safety, and Quality Systems (15%)
Task 1: Manage continuous readiness for accreditation and regulatory inspections.
- Apply standards from The Joint Commission (TJC), DNV, and CMS to daily pharmacy operations.
- Design and conduct internal audits to assess compliance with accreditation standards.
- Lead preparations for external inspections by state boards of pharmacy and other regulatory bodies.
- Develop and implement corrective action plans in response to survey findings.
- Educate staff on their roles and responsibilities during regulatory surveys.
Task 2: Manage controlled substance security and diversion prevention programs.
- Apply all DEA and state regulations for the procurement, storage, dispensing, and disposal of controlled substances.
- Design and manage a robust system for recordkeeping and reconciliation of all controlled substance transactions.
- Analyze surveillance data and audit reports to detect and investigate potential drug diversion.
- Implement security measures for all automated systems and storage areas containing controlled substances.
- Report and manage confirmed cases of diversion according to institutional policy and legal requirements.
Task 3: Lead continuous quality improvement (CQI) projects.
- Apply CQI methodologies (e.g., LEAN, Six Sigma, PDSA cycles) to improve pharmacy operations.
- Analyze medication event data to identify system vulnerabilities and prioritize improvement initiatives.
- Lead multidisciplinary teams to investigate significant medication events using tools like root cause analysis (RCA).
- Benchmark pharmacy performance against internal goals and external best practices.
- Develop, monitor, and report on key quality and performance metrics for the department.
Task 4: Implement medication safety best practices across the organization.
- Integrate ISMP best practices and National Patient Safety Goals into pharmacy policies and workflows.
- Design and promote strategies to reduce the risk of errors with high-alert medications.
- Manage the organization's look-alike, sound-alike (LASA) medication list and differentiation strategies.
- Participate in and provide operational expertise to the organization's medication safety committee.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of implemented safety initiatives through ongoing monitoring.
Task 5: Manage pharmacy's role in emergency preparedness and disaster response.
- Design and implement pharmacy downtime procedures for all critical information systems.
- Coordinate pharmacy participation in hospital-wide disaster drills and mass casualty incident planning.
- Develop business continuity plans for the drug supply chain during pandemics or widespread shortages.
- Manage the procurement, storage, and maintenance of emergency medication caches and code carts.
- Assess post-event performance to refine the emergency response plan.
Task 6: Develop and manage policies and procedures.
- Develop new policies and procedures to address changes in regulations, standards, or practice.
- Manage the process for reviewing and updating all departmental policies on a regular schedule.
- Communicate and educate staff on new or revised policies and procedures.
- Monitor staff adherence to established policies and provide coaching when necessary.
- Ensure all policies are readily accessible to staff for reference.
Domain 5: Leadership, Training, and Human Resource Management (15%)
Task 1: Develop and assess staff competency.
- Design a comprehensive training and orientation program for new pharmacy employees.
- Develop and implement an annual competency assessment program for pharmacists and technicians.
- Evaluate staff competency in critical areas (e.g., sterile technique, USP standards, technology use).
- Maintain all required documentation for staff training and competency assessments.
- Create individualized development plans for staff based on competency assessment results.
Task 2: Manage pharmacy workforce and workflow distribution.
- Develop and manage staffing schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all operational areas.
- Assess daily workload and distribute tasks among staff to ensure timely medication delivery.
- Analyze productivity metrics to optimize staffing models and justify resource needs.
- Implement strategies to manage fluctuations in workload and staffing levels.
- Define and optimize the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists and technicians within the workflow.
Task 3: Mentor and educate pharmacy residents, students, and technicians.
- Design and implement training experiences for pharmacy students and residents in operational practice.
- Provide constructive, timely feedback to learners and staff to foster professional growth.
- Mentor pharmacists and technicians to support their career development goals.
- Model professional behavior and a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and make improvements based on feedback.
Task 4: Promote staff well-being, engagement, and professional development.
- Implement strategies to recognize and address staff burnout and promote resilience.
- Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, respect, and open communication.
- Develop a system for recognizing and rewarding staff contributions and achievements.
- Support opportunities for staff to pursue professional development and continuing education.
- Manage interpersonal conflicts and facilitate resolutions to maintain a healthy team dynamic.
Task 5: Lead Interprofessional and External Collaboration.
- Serve as a liaison between the pharmacy department and other hospital departments to optimize the medication-use system.
- Communicate changes in pharmacy policies, procedures, or services to relevant stakeholders.
- Lead or participate in interdisciplinary committees to address system-level medication management issues.
- Collaborate with external groups such as state boards of pharmacy or health-system collaboratives.
- Contribute to health-system strategic planning and decision-making beyond the individual hospital.
Task 6: Uphold Ethical Principles and Professional Accountability.
- Apply a consistent ethical framework to operational decisions, including those related to staffing and resource allocation.
- Maintain the highest level of professional accountability in all leadership actions and communications.
- Manage ethical dilemmas related to controlled substance management and diversion prevention.
- Ensure patient confidentiality and data privacy are maintained in all pharmacy operations.
- Promote a culture of accountability, integrity, and ethical conduct among all pharmacy staff.
Domain 6: Financial and Resource Stewardship (15%)
Task 1: Manage the pharmacy budget and financial performance.
- Participate in the development of the annual pharmacy operating and capital budgets.
- Monitor departmental expenditures (e.g., drug, supply, labor costs) against the budget.
- Analyze financial reports to identify variances and opportunities for cost savings.
- Develop strategies to control costs while maintaining quality and patient safety.
- Prepare and present reports on the pharmacy's financial performance to leadership.
Task 2: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of pharmacy automation and technology.
- Conduct return on investment (ROI) analyses for proposed new technologies or automation.
- Assess the total cost of ownership for existing technology, including maintenance and upgrades.
- Evaluate the impact of technology on labor productivity and efficiency.
- Justify capital budget requests for new technology with sound financial and operational data.
- Benchmark the cost-effectiveness of the pharmacy's technology against similar institutions.
Task 3: Manage drug procurement, contracts, and inventory costs.
- Evaluate purchasing contracts and relationships with wholesalers and group purchasing organizations (GPOs).
- Analyze purchasing data to ensure compliance with contracts and maximize savings.
- Implement strategies to optimize inventory turnover and minimize the cost of carrying inventory.
- Manage compliance with federal programs that impact drug costs (e.g., 340B Drug Pricing Program).
- Negotiate with vendors for favorable pricing and contract terms.
Task 4: Manage the operational and financial impact of drug shortages.
- Develop and implement a proactive process for identifying and managing potential drug shortages.
- Evaluate the clinical and financial impact of alternative therapies during a shortage.
- Coordinate communication regarding drug shortages to prescribers, nursing, and other stakeholders.
- Assess compounding and purchasing strategies to mitigate the impact of shortages.
- Track and report on the increased costs associated with managing drug shortages.
Task 5: Analyze medication utilization and expenditure data to identify savings opportunities.
- Conduct drug utilization evaluations (DUEs) to assess prescribing patterns and identify areas for intervention.
- Analyze formulary compliance reports to identify opportunities for cost containment.
- Evaluate the financial impact of new drugs being considered for formulary addition.
- Collaborate with clinical pharmacists and physicians to promote the use of cost-effective therapies.
- Develop and monitor metrics related to drug expense per patient day or other relevant measures.
Task 6: Justify resource allocation for pharmacy services and initiatives.
- Develop business plans to justify the addition of new clinical or operational pharmacy services.
- Quantify the expected clinical, safety, and financial benefits of proposed initiatives.
- Present compelling arguments to hospital leadership to secure necessary resources (e.g., FTEs, technology, space).
- Assess the allocation of existing resources to ensure they align with departmental goals.
- Track the outcomes of new services to demonstrate their value to the organization.
