The PDA-PCCDG working meeting came to a close in San Diego this afternoon but not without turning on the afterburners. Typically, these meetings can get bogged down in debate but committee chairman, Dr. Rafik Bishara, runs a tight ship and kept everyone on task and on time.

Rafik announced that discussions with Hugo Wegewijs, chairman of the European C3 committee have resulted in an agreement between the two organizations to form a mind meld and and will work to unite their efforts and unify their documents - pending approval from the EU board. This is the first step in fulfilling a goal of the PCCDG - to involve other countries and regions of the world to participate in a common goal - good cold-chain distribution practices. Makes sense, as phamaceutical manufacturing and finished goods distribution has become a global process. By the way, the C3 website, for those of you looking for it is: C3info.org not C3 as stated here yesterday.

Excellent case studies were presented again today. As a veteran of many cold-chain conferences as both an attendee and presenter, I can honestly say that the technical reports at this session were far more in-depth, applicable, informative, and practical than any I have seen in recent years. I attribute this to the having a very focused group with no distractions or concurrent presentations, and a real willingness to share sensitive information. The latter results from the the PCCDG's legendary non-threatening, non-competitive environment and willingness to share. This is key to the groups' success and activities. And you can't beat the admission price!

FedEx Custom Critical presented results on their trailer mapping program and outlined their extensive quality systems. Envirotainer detailed the painful process of designing, developing and obtaining airline approval for their now active heating/cooling cargo container. And McKesson desribed their unique challenges in maintaining the cold-chain as stewards of pharmaceutical goods received from the manufacturers through to the pharmacies.

The morning concluded with a spirited discussion on the process for selecting a steering committee for the new organization, yet to adopt a new monikor. Somehow I feel that will be addressed long before an identity crisis sets in. Rafik stepped in and suggested that anyone interested in volunteering for such a position should write their intent on the back of their business card and literally "throw their name in the jar."

The  three breakout sessions that consumed most of the afternoon were: trailer mapping, ambient temperature / profile development, and temperature monitoring devices. Concensus was reached within each group as to what should be addressed, based on priority. Group leaders were identified and deliverables and target dates recorded.

 Rafik indicated that he would consider all those who volunteered for the steering committee and let the group know what his selections will be in a few weeks time.

The intellectually stimulating two days of discussions concluded with a call for a volunteer organization to host the next meeting.

Comments encouraged.