Alexandria, VA, December 18, 2001-The Commission for Certification in Geriatric Pharmacy (CCGP) is proud to announce that it's Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Examination has been approved under the provisions of Section 122 of Public Law 106-419, Veterans' Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2000.

This landmark legislation, which was signed into law November 2000, expands the Montgomery GI benefits to cover the costs of licensing and certification exam fees offered by approved agencies. Veterans who sit for the CCGP Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Examination and qualify for their GI benefits, can now be reimbursed for the entire cost of the exam. Qualified veterans can receive up to $2,000 per test and can receive benefits to retake an exam should they receive a failing grade.

"This legislation is a giant step forward in removing the barriers that prevent a smooth transition from military to civilian occupation. Certification plays a key role for entry into many occupations-from information technology, to auto mechanics, to healthcare-and our credential will now be accessible to more individuals wishing to pursue careers in geriatric pharmacy practice," states Michael C. Martin, CCGP Executive Director. "We are pleased that our exam has received this recognition and that CCGP is a partner in the efforts to provide civilian employment to our nation's veterans."

For more information about the Department of Veterans Affairs licensing and certification benefit, call 1-888-442-4551, or for the hearing-impaired 1-800-829-4833, or visit the VA web site www.gibill.va.gov. For information on using your GI benefits to sit for the CCGP Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Examination, please contact Michael C. Martin at 703-535-3036.