In this episode of the Pharmacy View Podcast’s Rx to Riches stream, host Michael Alexander, a Pharmacist, entrepreneur, digital health enthusiast, Co-Founder of Audrie, and the Regional Vice-President of Health Plans at Omada Health, is joined by Tom Myers, Pharmacy Manager at Walgreens. Listen in as Tom talks about their journey, innovations in Pharmacy, and the challenges of balancing clinical care with business demands.
Tom's journey into Pharmacy began in high school when they gained hands-on experience in Hospital Pharmacy practice in Salem, Oregon, sparking their passion for chemistry and Pharmacy. After completing an undergraduate degree in microbiology with a chemistry minor at Oregon State University, Tom entered the Pharmacy program.
Having risen from intern to staff Pharmacist, Tom eventually stepped into the role of Pharmacy Manager, particularly during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tom discusses the advantages of their managerial role, emphasizing the opportunity to shape projects according to their vision and streamline operations.
Tom shares further insights into the innovative technological advancements implemented by Walgreens to enhance patient convenience and streamline Pharmacy operations. They highlight features of the Walgreens app, such as digital text reminders and insurance card updates, reducing wait times and phone calls. Tom also mentions the introduction of 90-day medication supplies and the adoption of micro-fulfillment technology.
Tom explores the challenges and opportunities related to reimbursement for clinical knowledge and services in Pharmacy, emphasizing the need for reimbursement even for negative test results. They also discuss Walgreens' national engagement program and express a desire to see more community clinics in the future, recognizing staffing challenges as a key consideration for such projects.
Lastly, Tom Myers emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to discover new income methods in the evolving landscape of Pharmacy, acknowledging the challenge of finding alternative revenue streams while balancing clinical care with business obligations. They also stress the importance of qualities such as attention to detail, a clear vision, courage in decision-making, and staying true to one's ethics in the Pharmacy profession.
