ER Clinical Specialist Pharmacist
What is your role with Community Healthcare System?
I am the Clinical Pharmacist who specifically works in Community Hospital Emergency Department. Since I am not in the central pharmacy, my role focuses more on helping answer questions from the staff in the ED regarding drug dosing and administration. I also assist with the care of critical patients by aiding in appropriate dosing of medications at the bedside.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
I became a pharmacist because I enjoyed the interactions I had with patients and the relationships I built with my fellow healthcare providers. Working as a part of the healthcare team is rewarding and makes me feel fulfilled.
What is a typical day like for you?
Most of my time is spent in the Emergency Department collaborating with the physicians, nurses and other support staff. I work with them to help ensure that patients get the care they need. This can mean helping to obtain the right medication or answering questions about what drug would be the most appropriate to treat a patient's condition.
How long have you been employed here?
I have been working at Community Hospital since August 2019. I started here shortly after moving up to Northwest Indiana. I am originally from Indianapolis, worked in Georgia, and then moved here to be with my wife, who is from Northwest Indiana.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
The COVID-19 pandemic caused numerous things to change in healthcare, and the Emergency Department was no exception. Besides national staffing shortages, there were drug shortages and new drugs coming out regularly. This kind of new drug development usually takes years, so it was exciting to have to work to stay on top of the new information that was coming out regarding COVID-19 therapy.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
Outside of work, my wife and I are raising our first child. We like to travel and enjoy watching movies or TV in the evenings. I enjoy listening to music and discovering new artists.
What do you enjoy most about working at Community Healthcare System?
I enjoy getting to work with the amazing pharmacists, physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals at Community Healthcare System. I am continually challenged, and I learn new things every time I work. My colleagues are thoughtful and make every day interesting.