The Commission for Certification in Geriatric Pharmacy (CCGP) has established a national voluntary certification program for pharmacists. The focus of the certification program is "Geriatric Pharmacy Practice." As part of this process, a written examination was developed, which candidates must pass to become certified. A pharmacist who is certified in geriatric pharmacy practice is designated as a "Certified Geriatric Pharmacist" (CGP).

To become certified, candidates are expected to be knowledgeable about principles of geriatric pharmacotherapy and the provision of pharmaceutical care to the elderly. Shown below is the process and timeline that led to implementation of the certification program. CCGP contracted with a professional testing company, Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP), to assist in conducting the practice analysis and the examination development and administration.

On February 27, 1997 the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) Board of Directors voted to create CCGP to oversee the certification program. CCGP is a nonprofit corporation, autonomous from ASCP, and with its own governing Board of Commissioners.

CCGP is responsible for establishing eligibility criteria to take the Certification Examination in Geriatric Pharmacy and establishing program policies. Such policies include the length of the certification period; the cost to take the examination; the appeals procedure for someone who fails the examination; and recertification requirements.

Members of the Board of Commissioners were appointed and the first meeting of the Board was held on July 9, 1997.

The first administration of the examination was held on November 12, 1997 in conjunction with ASCP's Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.