HOPA Annual Conference Offers Numerous Educational Opportunities

A former senior vice president of oncology pharmacy services with OncoMed, Ellen Scharaga possesses more than three decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Currently serving as an operational consultant for Alegria Specialty Pharmacy, Ellen Scharaga belongs to such professional organizations as the Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA).

As part of its efforts to advance and promote hematology and oncology pharmacy care, HOPA hosts several conferences and events during the year, including its annual conference. 

The HOPA Annual Conference is designed for pharmacy researchers, technicians, residents, and pharmacists working in the field of oncology and hematology. An educational event, it provides attendees with cutting-edge information about treatment guidelines, new technologies, and new clinical trials that improve patient care quality and health care delivery. Attendees are also given the opportunity to participate in clinical decision-making and new health care initiatives during the event.

In addition to providing attendees with educational benefits, the HOPA Annual Conference grants numerous networking opportunities. Poster sessions at the event allow HOPA members to present their work and engage with their colleagues.

HOPA’s 13th Annual Conference was held from March 29 to April 1, 2017, at Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, California. Conference sessions from the event can be purchased from HOPA online.

Osteoarthritis - Symptoms and Risk Factors

Ellen Scharaga of Melville, NY, serves Alegria Specialty Pharmacy in her capacity as an operational consultant. The pharmacy offers patients high-touch service. Ellen Scharaga helps in the delivery of new treatments for a range of conditions, including HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and arthritis. 

Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage at the ends of the bones becomes worn down. The hands, lower back, neck, knees, and hips are the most typically affected areas. Early warning signs include pain, stiffness, a grating sound or sensation in the joint, and a loss of flexibility. Bone spurs, which take the form of hard lumps around affected joints, may also develop.

It is more likely for women to develop osteoarthritis than men. The presence of other diseases, engagement in occupations that place stress on certain joints, and bone deformities all elevate the risk of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis has no cure. However, treatment can help one to manage the pain and slow the condition’s development.