During a recent conversation, Dr. Bela Mehta, Chair of the Division of Pharmacy Practice and Science at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy, shared her insights on the vital role of community pharmacists. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic, including increased patient care demands and immunization efforts, which contributed to rising levels of burnout among pharmacy practitioners.
Dr. Mehta reflected on her personal journey, beginning with her father’s immigration from India to the U.S. in the 1960s, her childhood in India, and her eventual return to the U.S. Her early experiences working in a community pharmacy sparked a passion for the profession, reinforcing her commitment to patient care. Her academic path, including earning a PharmD and completing a residency, led her to academia, where she now focuses on training future pharmacists and advancing equitable healthcare access.
The conversation explored the evolving landscape of pharmacy education and the need for innovative approaches to prepare students for modern challenges. Dr. Mehta emphasized the systemic issues affecting the profession post-pandemic, including workforce shortages and mental health strains on pharmacists. She discussed ongoing efforts to address burnout, improve working conditions, and foster collaboration among healthcare teams to enhance both provider well-being and patient outcomes.
Dr. Mehta also shared her interest in complementary and alternative medicine, challenging conventional perspectives within the field. Her approach underscores the importance of evidence-based, patient-centered care that respects diverse needs and preferences.
To conclude, Dr. Mehta offered valuable advice on mentorship, leadership, and finding purpose in one’s career. She stressed the importance of recognizing achievements and maintaining a balance between personal and professional growth.
The discussion reinforced the essential role pharmacists play in healthcare and the ongoing need to support their contributions to community health.
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Music by Ryan Jones.
Find Ryan on Instagram at _ryjones_, Contact Ryan at ryjonesofficial@gmail.com
Production assistance by Clawson Solutions Group, find them on the web at csolgroup.com
