American Pharmacists Month

 

Throughout my short pharmacy career, I have had the opportunity to have an impact on many patients’ lives, but one patient that stands out to me is a gentleman, “Eric,” who I met at the primary care clinic where I practice. I had identified Eric as a patient with an A1C  greater than 9% (actually 15.9%) and approached the provider to inquire if he would like me to provide support, medication adjustment, and education to the patient. The provider told me "no, he won’t work with you, they don't have any money and don't really care." Since I was new at the facility and still gaining respect, I didn't argue. About 3 months later, after having many other successful patients and gaining the provider’s respect, Eric was at the clinic when I was working. The provider told me I could try to work my "magic." I met Eric, got a full history, including motivation and financial implications, and through many phone calls, visits, discussions with his insurance, and countless medication adjustments, was able to decrease his A1C to 7.1% in just 3.5 months, all because of the relationship I was able to establish with Eric, earning his trust, and being his cheerleader. 

 

When Kristin Morse, PharmD realized a little boy was drowning at her daughter’s pre-kindergarten swim party her BLS training kicked in.  She helped pull the child out of the pool, instructed someone to call 911, and started chest compressions.  The child gained consciousness after a few rounds before the paramedics arrived.  “It seemed like the longest few minutes of my life and I was praying the entire time that God would work through me to save this boy.”    Though Kristin’s current job position is more managerial in nature and does not “require” BLS certification, she has continued to maintain it.  “I never expected I would need to use my BLS training, especially in a social setting.  However, I am so thankful for my pharmacy training that supports and encourages pharmacists to become BLS and ACLS trained.”