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Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brandon Antinopoulos, PharmD., University Pharmacy/PPA, PGY1 Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014 My Pharmacy Practice Vision: It is my mission as a pharmacist to work collaboratively with patients as part of their health care team to empower them to make the best possible decisions about their medicines so they may lead healthy lives. My goal is to develop an innovative pharmacy practice that provides patient care services in a community pharmacy while educating future pharmacists about advanced community pharmacy practice. I will work to create a teaching pharmacy focused on innovative practice to educate patients and students. Project/Research Question: My role as a resident this year will include advancing the development of the Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Care Network (PPCN). The PPCN looks to train and support pharmacists in providing patient care services as part of a network contracted with interested payers. My research will focus on analyzing patient access to pharmacist services across Pennsylvania and how a state pharmacy network can address gaps in care. Ayesha Ather, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY1 Graduate of: University of Montana Skaggs School of Pharmacy Year: 2014 My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After successfully completing PGY1 residency, I plan to pursue a PGY2 residency in critical care. Ultimately, my long-term professional goal is to obtain a clinical specialist position at an academic medical center, where I am able to serve as a leader, perform research, precept students and teach. Project/Research Question: Serious, life-threatening or fatal ADEs such as hypoglycemia in the community dwelling population are common and preventable. To better understand the frequency of hypoglycemic events resulting in emergency department visits in elderly patients, we will develop an automated system to enhance detection. Subsequently, we will determine possible approaches to prevention. Teresa Breslin, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY2 Graduate of: Wayne State University Year: 2013 My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing residency, I hope to obtain a position as a clinical geriatric pharmacist with clinical teaching responsibilities where I can continue to promote optimum care of older adults with safe transitions of care and optimal end of life care, as well as contributing to the profession through education of pharmacy learners, contributing to research literature, and service through professional organizations. Project/Research Question: This year my research project will focus on the effects of clinical pharmacists on physician efficiency in the office. Through key informant interviews I will obtain hours of work per week saved for the physician by the pharmacist, as well as information about how the physicians are using this freed time in their practice.

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Page 1: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Brandon Antinopoulos, PharmD., University Pharmacy/PPA, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: It is my mission as a pharmacist to work

collaboratively with patients as part of their health care team to empower them

to make the best possible decisions about their medicines so they may lead

healthy lives. My goal is to develop an innovative pharmacy practice that

provides patient care services in a community pharmacy while educating future

pharmacists about advanced community pharmacy practice. I will work to

create a teaching pharmacy focused on innovative practice to educate patients and students.

Project/Research Question: My role as a resident this year will include advancing the

development of the Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Care Network (PPCN). The PPCN looks to

train and support pharmacists in providing patient care services as part of a network contracted

with interested payers. My research will focus on analyzing patient access to pharmacist

services across Pennsylvania and how a state pharmacy network can address gaps in care.

Ayesha Ather, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Montana Skaggs School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After successfully completing PGY1

residency, I plan to pursue a PGY2 residency in critical care. Ultimately, my

long-term professional goal is to obtain a clinical specialist position at an

academic medical center, where I am able to serve as a leader, perform research,

precept students and teach.

Project/Research Question: Serious, life-threatening or fatal ADEs such as hypoglycemia in

the community dwelling population are common and preventable. To better understand the

frequency of hypoglycemic events resulting in emergency department visits in elderly patients,

we will develop an automated system to enhance detection. Subsequently, we will determine

possible approaches to prevention.

Teresa Breslin, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY2

Graduate of: Wayne State University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing residency, I hope to obtain

a position as a clinical geriatric pharmacist with clinical teaching

responsibilities where I can continue to promote optimum care of older adults

with safe transitions of care and optimal end of life care, as well as

contributing to the profession through education of pharmacy learners,

contributing to research literature, and service through professional

organizations.

Project/Research Question: This year my research project will focus on the effects of clinical

pharmacists on physician efficiency in the office. Through key informant interviews I will obtain

hours of work per week saved for the physician by the pharmacist, as well as information about

how the physicians are using this freed time in their practice.

Page 2: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Valerie Breznak, PharmD., Geisinger Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: Wilkes University Year: 2008

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: During my future career as a pharmacist, I

plan to become a specialized inpatient clinical pharmacist with interests both

in critical care and oncology. Along with this plan, I have a goal of becoming

a preceptor and training pharmacy students in my area of practice.

Project/Research Question: During my PGY1 residency year, I will be

conducting a retrospective research study which will evaluate the

appropriateness of empiric antibiotic selection in patients diagnosed with sepsis at the Geisinger

Medical Center Emergency Department. As a secondary outcome, I plan to determine whether

the emergency department is administering the appropriate antibiotic within the one hour time

frame from sepsis diagnosis as suggested by the current sepsis guidelines.

Maxwell Brown PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY1

Graduate of: Northeastern University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5-10 years I envision myself as a Clinical

Pharmacy Specialist in Oncology at a tertiary academic medical center affiliated

with a school of pharmacy where I will have the opportunity to act as a

preceptor for students and residents, continue my involvement in clinical

research, and contribute to the provision of outstanding patient-centered care as

part of an inter-professional medical team.

Project/Research Question: My research will focus on investigating the significance of

potential drug interactions with calcineurin inhibitors and the new medications used to treat

hepatitis C.

Deanna Buehrle, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY2

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2012 My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completion of her PGY-2 pharmacy

residency in infectious diseases, Deanna plans to pursue a career in clinical

practice with a role in academia.

Project/Research Question: Deanna will be working on an in-vitro multidrug-

resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa research project with an accompanying

retrospective outcomes piece during her PGY-2 year.

Page 3: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In the immediate future I envision myself

pursuing a PGY-2 residency in my interests of either infectious disease or

critical care. Further in the future I hope to be a clinical specialist in one of

these areas of interest. I would enjoy being a preceptor of students and

assisting them in gaining the knowledge and experience to be well rounded

pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: I intend on evaluating sedation and delirium in the intensive care

unit using the RASS and CAM-ICU scores. I also aim to monitor protocol adherence and

improve the existing protocols.

Ashley Campbell, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY1

Graduate of: University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My primary interests lie in geriatrics,

psychiatry, academia, and interprofessional collaboration. I hope to one day

couple my passions for both teaching and patient care by obtaining a faculty

position within a school of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: This year, I will be working with the Pharmacist-

led InterVentions On Transitions of Seniors (PIVOTS) team to quantify and categorize drug

therapy problems and corresponding outcomes that are experienced by older adults seen by

pharmacists across the care continuum.

Brian M. Cebulko, PharmD., Moses Taylor Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Wilkes University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After residency, I would like to pursue a

career as a clinical pharmacist and be an adjunct professor at a local university

where I can precept future pharmacy students. My goal is to become a board

certified pharmacotherapy specialist and provide evidence based medicine to

my patients. I plan to become an active member of pharmacy organizations

and head committees within the hospital system that focus on patient safety

and satisfaction.

Project/Research Question: My research project will look into the results of implementing a

pharmacy based Coumadin protocol where pharmacists are in charge of managing and dosing

Coumadin throughout the hospital. This research will involve education presentations to the

hospital staff on the policy and procedures, fully implementing the dosing protocol, and

gathering data. Data collected will look at INR levels, adverse events, and a comparison to

physicians that wish to continue managing their patients Coumadin.

Page 4: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Lauren Chambers, PharmD., York Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Shenandoah University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Through my clinical experiences the aspect

I have found most rewarding has been developing relationships with my

patients. Upon completion of my PGY1, I plan to pursue a PGY2 in

ambulatory care and seek board certification. Within the next 5-10 years I

aspire to have a career in academia with an ambulatory care practice site

primarily focused on indigent patients with an ultimate goal of leaving a

lasting impression on the profession of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: While plans for my research have yet to be finalized, I do have an

interest in diabetes management in the inpatient setting, transitions of care of patients, as well as

appropriate antimicrobial selection in reducing resistance rates.

Emily Chan, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, PGY2

Graduate of: University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical

Sciences Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself practicing as a board

certified ambulatory care pharmacist focusing on chronic disease state

management and preventative care. I hope to secure a clinical faculty position,

precept and teach students, and perform research exploring the expanded scope

of practice for pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: I intend to improve the current workflow process in an outpatient

heart failure clinic, create a definitive role for pharmacists in this model, and study the financial

and clinical outcomes associated with pharmacist interventions at this clinic.

Arnold G. Decano, PharmD., Hahnemann University Hospital,

PGY1 Graduate of: Regis University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Upon completion of my PGY-1, I

plan to practice as a clinical pharmacist in an academic medical

setting and become a contributing member of an interdisciplinary

team. I also envision myself becoming affiliated with a school of

pharmacy and serving as a mentor to students.

Project/Research Question: Retrospective analysis of the use of extended interval dosing of

aminoglycosides in transplant patients.

Page 5: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Anna Drapkin, PharmD., Abington Memorial Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Jefferson School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself working as a clinical

pharmacist in a critical care setting within an urban hospital. I will work

closely with an interdisciplinary team providing optimal care for my patients.

Project/Research Question: Conduct a prospective study of the use of

insulin drips for patients with diabetes in the medical intensive care unit and

compare the outcomes of those patients to those patients who receive standard

of care.

R. Christopher Durigan, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing my PGY-2 Ambulatory

Care residency, I plan to practice as a clinical pharmacist in a primary care,

family medicine PCMH-type setting. There, I envision myself working as part

of an interdisciplinary team to deliver optimal patient care.

Project/Research Question: As part of the SCRIPT research team, my project

will involve performing a cost analysis of the utilization of pharmacists in the primary care

setting.

Eric Emerson, PharmD., UPMC Health Plan, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years I envision myself as a

clinical pharmacist for a managed care organization. I hope to work in an

area focusing on formulary development or specialty medication

management. I would also be furthering my education by pursuing a MBA

or MPH.

Project/Research Question: Does utilization management of high risk

medications improve health outcomes in a Medicare population?

Page 6: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Lindsay Fakete, PharmD., Lehigh Valley Health Network, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Completing a PGY1 residency will allow me

to experience many different specialties and different settings in pharmacy

(inpatient vs. ambulatory). Following this year, I would like to pursue a

PGY2 to further my education and specialize. Currently I would like to

concentrate on pediatrics. Following residency training I see myself in a

clinical role in a teaching hospital so that I can use the skills and knowledge I

have acquired while teaching and precepting students.

Project/Research Question: What is the incidence of sedation withdrawal while being weaned from lorazapam and

methadone in PICU patients?

Lauren M. Finoli, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY2

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My personal pharmacy practice vision

includes involvement in the safe, efficacious, and evidence based medication

use practice in an ICU setting at an academic, tertiary care center with an

additional focus on educating and precepting student pharmacists and

pharmacy residents. I also envision myself actively improving medication use

processes with a focus on safety, efficiency, and best practices.

Project/Research Question: During this upcoming residency year I intend to describe clinical

outcomes (for example ICU length of stay, time to anion gap closure, and number of

hypoglycemic events) when different insulin drip protocols are utilized in the emergency

department and medical ICU in patients presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Chelsea Fitzgerald, PharmD., Lebanon VA Medical Center, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself practicing in a

pharmacotherapy clinic under my own Scope of Practice so that I am able to

prescribe for my patients. I plan to be BCPS certified in ambulatory care as

well as be a Certified Diabetes Educator. Additionally, I hope to hold an

adjunct faculty position at a School of Pharmacy and be a preceptor for

pharmacy students and residents.

Project/Research Question: Our VA hospital has much higher diabetes drug costs per patient

than any other VA hospital within our region. For my project, I plan to research what is

contributing to these higher costs and if they are resulting in better outcomes for our patients (i.e.

better A1C results, less hospitalizations, prevention of complications, etc).

Page 7: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Anthony Fredo, PharmD., Millcreek Community Hospital, PGY

Graduate of: LECOM School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself practicing in a large teaching hospital either in the ICU or as

an infectious disease pharmacist. I hope to be involved with precepting

students to pass on the knowledge I gained from my residency to the future of

pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: My residency project is not finalized yet but it is going to involve a topic dealing with the ICU or

infectious disease.

Erin Freeman, PharmD., Lancaster General Health, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Maryland Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I hope to become a clinical

pharmacist, in either internal medicine or ambulatory care, at an

institution that places patients’ well-being as their highest priority.

I plan on becoming BCPS certified and work with an

interdisciplinary team to provide excellent patient care and be

involved in new initiatives that benefit health outcomes and patient

satisfaction. Finally, I would like to precept students so that I can give back to the profession

that I feel has already given me so much.

Project/Research Question: Transition of Care Warfarin Initiative: The pharmacy Team’s

Impact

Kirsten Rae Garman, PharmD., Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center,

PGY1 Graduate of: West Virginia University School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Following residency training, I plan to pursue

board certification as a pharmacotherapy specialist and to obtain a clinical

position within an academic medical institute. My goal is to provide both

inpatient and outpatient services to cardiac patients. I also envision myself

playing a large role in professional education and training. Through my future position, I plan to

serve as a respected and valuable member of the health care team.

Project/Research Question: I intend to base my research project in our internal medicine clinic

focusing on patients with resistant hypertension. I would like to develop a management protocol

and incorporate pharmacist intervention and education to improve patient outcomes.

Page 8: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Gale Edward Garmong, PharmD., University of Pittsburgh/Rite Aid

Pharmacy, PGY1

Graduate of: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I plan to practice in community pharmacy

and/or family medicine providing direct patient care. My passion is in forming

strong relationships with my patients and their other healthcare providers,

helping them with understanding and optimizing their medication therapy. I

want to continue educating student pharmacists through precepting and didactic

teaching as opportunities permit. And, I plan to remain active in advocating for our profession

and patients through PPA and other pharmacy associations throughout my career.

Project/Research Question: My resident research project will explore strategies for increasing

Comprehensive Medication Review (CMR) completion rates by community pharmacists. I am

also interested in strategies for improving collaboration between community pharmacists and

other healthcare providers.

Emily Graham, PharmD., UPMC Presyterian Shadyside, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I hope to be working as an oncology

pharmacist within a large, academic medical center. I look forward to precepting

students and hope to obtain an adjunct professor position with an affiliated

school of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: I will be investigating the concurrent use of

calcium channel blockers with the newer hepatitis C medications and the

potential for clinically significant drug interactions.

Tamika M. Greenwood, PharmD., Center for Pharmacy Services, PGY1

Graduate of: Hampton University School of Pharmacy Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: The pharmacy profession is evolving with

extensive opportunity to contribute to healthcare. We are now managing

medication therapies, administering immunizations, providing point of care

screenings, offering therapeutic recommendations, and implementing new

patient care services. In 5 years I envision myself owning a non-profit pharmacy

practice, teaching and precepting future pharmacists, and forming collaboration

agreements to provide optimal patient care.

Project/Research Question: I will look at the use of patient health outcomes to assess student

pharmacist learning in community pharmacy practice.

Page 9: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Michele Hebda, PharmD., Duquesne University Mylan School of

Pharmacy/Preferred Primary Care Physicians, Academic & Research

Fellowship Graduate of: Creighton University School of Pharmacy & Health Professions

Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Within the next 5 years, I can easily envision

myself in a dual role as clinical pharmacist within an ambulatory care setting

and an associate professor for a school of pharmacy. In each of these positions,

I hope to emulate and embrace the roles of the leaders, mentors, and role models who have

contributed to my own growth and development into an advanced independent healthcare

professional and pharmacist.

Project/Research Question: Does the addition of pharmacist telephone counseling on new

medications within a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model improve patient

understanding of their medications in regards to name, indication, dose, and potential side effects

vs. standard of care? Secondary outcomes will look at the addition of pharmacist telephone

counseling on new medications within a PCMH improving patient adherence vs. standard of

care.

Brandon Herk, PharmD., Center for Pharmacy Care, Duquense University,

Academic & Research Fellowship Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5-10 years I hope to have a clinical practice

site in ambulatory care with a focus in cardiology. By continuing my training as

an academic and research fellow at both Duquesne University and the Center

for Pharmacy Care, I will be able to build a strong clinical and academic

background.

Project/Research Question: My practice site, The Center for Pharmacy Care at Duquesne

University, was recognized for its outstanding business practice model at the 2014 American

Pharmacists Association Annual Meeting and Exposition. My research this year will consist of

an evaluation of an anticoagulation management service in this unique pharmacy practice setting.

Ashley Higbea, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY2

Graduate of: Virginia Commonwealth University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years as I envision myself practicing

in an interdisciplinary outpatient setting within Family Medicine helping

patients manage their chronic disease states. I also enjoy teaching and envision

precepting students and residents.

Project/Research Question: A novel practice has been developed that includes

pharmacists partnering with physicians to fill in gaps in care and provide safe

hand-offs of older adults within transitions of care. Geriatric Specialized Clinical Pharmacists

collaborate with the healthcare team in real-time and provides direct patient care. The primary

objective is to evaluate the impact of this novel practice on independently living patients by

collecting patient’s perceptions of their drug therapy problems and coordination of care.

Page 10: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Lucas G. Hill, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Missouri – Kansas City Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing two years of training in the

family medicine program and interdisciplinary faculty development fellowship

at UPMC Saint Margaret, I intend to pursue a career path that focuses on

educating pharmacy and medical learners. I hope to work in an outpatient

primary care clinic as a diabetes educator and clinical pharmacist helping to

reduce hospitalization rates and improve chronic disease outcomes while

expanding the pharmacist’s role in addressing psychiatric illness.

Project/Research Question: Family medicine residency programs are required to offer a home

visit curriculum, but these curricula are often poorly structured and leave trainees unprepared to

conduct effective home visits after graduation. At UPMC St. Margaret, clinical pharmacists

frequently lead home visits in concert with physician and pharmacy trainees. I plan to

standardize these pharmacist-led home visits, assessing changes in learner attitudes after rotating

with the pharmacist, and describe the activities of the pharmacist.

Paul Huffman, PharmD., St Barnabas Health System/ Duquesne University,

PGY1 Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I wish to secure a position as a clinical

pharmacist working with the geriatric population to optimize patient outcomes

across the continuum of care. I would also like the opportunity to teach

pharmacy students through serving as a preceptor or working in academia.

Project/Research Question: I wish to investigate the effects of blood pressure

management on fall prevention in a skilled nursing facility or evaluate the role of a pharmacist in

transitions of care.

Shmuel Isenberg, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh, School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I plan to practice pharmacy as a

clinical specialist at a large academic hospital. My areas of interest

include Intensive Care, Internal Medicine, and Infectious Diseases,

and I am excited for the opportunity to further explore those

practice settings during my residency.

Project/Research Question: I will be analyzing the institution’s guidelines for identifying and

treating Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia using the HIT Expert Probability (HEP) Score. The

aim of the study is to determine how effective the HEP Score is in correctly diagnosing HIT in

patients with clinical suspicion at the institution. I hope to also investigate the impact a patient’s

HEP Score may have on determining the drug of choice for anticoagulation.

Page 11: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Amanda S. Johnson, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian-Shadyside, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Year: 2012

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I have completed 2 years of residency so far,

one in pharmacy practice and the second year in management. I am also

pursuing my Master’s in Health Administration. In this upcoming year, I not

only intend to continue to grow as a clinician, but also hope to refine my

leadership skills. In 5-10 years, I hope to have some kind of leadership role in a

health-system, either in clinical management or operations.

Project/Research Question: I will be utilizing high-fidelity simulation techniques to develop a

competency and train in-patient pharmacists to participate in a rapid response team.

Christine Jordan, PharmD., University of Pittsburgh/Giant Eagle Pharmacy,

PGY1 Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My pharmacy practice vision is to provide

patient care services in the community as an integral member of the healthcare

team. I aspire to serve as a leader in the implementation and growth of clinical

services in community pharmacies. I hope to do so through education of

pharmacists and also by serving as a mentor and preceptor to student

pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: I intend to complete a research project focused on the outcomes

and implementation of a screening and brief intervention model into the Giant Eagle Pharmacy

workflow to improve medication adherence.

Matthew Joseph, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing my residency training, I

hope to provide direct patient care in an inter-professional outpatient or

inpatient setting. I also hope to have a positive impact on patients, specifically

the geriatric population, by providing smooth transitions of care and promoting

safe medication use. In addition, I plan on teaching and precepting both

students and residents.

Project/Research Question: I am planning to analyze the effect of a new unit based pharmacist

model at UPMC St. Margaret Hospital on patient satisfaction scores and hospital reimbursement.

The new model allows for direct pharmacist-patient interaction and counseling at the bedside.

Page 12: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Bo Ran Kang, PharmD., Abington Memorial Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Jefferson School of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself practicing as a clinical

pharmacist in hospital critical care setting providing optimal medication

therapy.

Project/Research Question: Evaluating management of diabetic ketoacidosis

before and after order set implementation.

Frank Keller, PharmD., Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and

Pharmaceutical Sciences Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years, I envision myself as an

ambulatory care pharmacist who manages a variety of health conditions to best

care for patients and contribute to a healthcare team. I also plan to precept

pharmacy students and residents.

Project/Research Question: A prospective trial evaluating A1C reduction in

patients with type 2 diabetes managed by PGY1 pharmacy residents compared to primary care

physicians.

Lara Kratochwill, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Wegmans School of Pharmacy, St. John Fisher College

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years, I envision myself

becoming board certified in ambulatory care and working at an internal

medicine or family practice clinic associated with a hospital. I also hope to

become a faculty member at a pharmacy school with the ability to both teach

and precept students in my area of interest.

Project/Research Question: My research project is going to look at what factors are associated

with ciprofloxacin resistant E.coli urinary tract infections in patients presenting to the emergency

department. The results of this project will help determine an outpatient treatment protocol for

the management of these patients. We will also develop a collaborative practice agreement to

allow pharmacists to alter antibiotic therapy based on culture results.

Page 13: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents!

Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association

Sarah K. Kraus, PharmD., Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, PGY1

Graduate of: Philadelphia College of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing PGY1 training, my goal is to

excel at a PGY2 residency in oncology. My long-term career goal is to practice

as an inpatient Hematology/Oncology specialist at a large academic medical

center. Additionally, I would like to be involved with multidisciplinary quality

improvement initiatives and clinical research studies. Beyond these activities, I

also strive to be a mentor to pharmacy students and residents, and to establish

myself as a leader in the pharmacy community.

Project/Research Question: This year, my research will examine the efficacy of a 3mg flat dose

rasburicase versus 6mg in patients with tumor lysis syndrome.

Julia E. Kuroski, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Buffalo Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing my PGY-1 residency at

Allegheny General Hospital, I hope to go on and complete a PGY-2 Critical

Care Pharmacy Residency. After completing a PGY-2, I would like to work

as a clinical specialist in a teaching institution, and become a preceptor for

pharmacy residents and pharmacy students. I also plan to become board

certified. I am also hoping to stay in the northeast, so I am close to my family

and friends in my hometown of Buffalo, NY.

Project/Research Question: My research project will be evaluating the adherence to the

hospital’s post-intubation sedation protocol before and after education to the Emergency

Department medical staff. I will also be evaluating the influence of pharmacy presence on the

adherence to the protocol.

Alicia Beth Lichvar, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Within ten years of completing my training, I

aspire to have an established pharmacy practice, to participate in outcomes

research endeavors, and to serve as a preceptor or director of an ASHP-

accredited residency program in solid organ transplantation. Additionally, I

would like to pursue leadership opportunities within ACCP’s Immunology and

Transplantation Practice and Research Network.

Project/Research Question: Evaluation of intravenous immunoglobulin utilization in lung

transplantation recipients with hypogammaglobulinemia to determine clinical benefit.

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Caitlin Lozorak, PharmD., Reading Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5-10 years, I would like to be a practicing

clinical pharmacist in an ambulatory care setting. At this point, I am not sure

what specialty I would like to practice in. I would love to have my own clinic,

where I am able to manage patient’s medications optimally. I think there is

still a huge deficit in patient’s pharmacy literacy and I want to help decrease

this gap and improve patient care.

Project/Research Question: My plan is to do a project comparing length of stay in the NICU

for NAS (neonatal abstinence syndrome) babies born to mothers that are taking either methadone

or subutex prior to delivery.

Jonathan Lucas, PharmD., Geisinger Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing my PGY1 residency, I

plan to pursue a PGY2 residency in ambulatory care, oncology, or

cardiology. In the future, I envision myself practicing in an ambulatory

care clinic or primary care setting managing patients’ chronic conditions

performing medication therapy management, and facilitating transitions

of care.

Project/Research Question: I intend to conduct a retrospective research project investigating

use of novel oral anticoagulants in patients undergoing cardioversion and catheter ablation and

associated outcomes.

Sarah Maheady, PharmD., Abington Memorial Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Wilkes University Nesbitt School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself as a health system

pharmacist in a critical care setting contributing to patient care as part of

an interdisciplinary team. I hope to have the opportunity to precept

student pharmacists and residents. Lastly, I will work to continue my

involvement in professional organizations.

Project/Research Question: I plan to complete a project in the critical care setting focusing on

adherence to the most recent “Surviving Sepsis Campaign” publication. Specific details of the

project will be determined over the coming weeks based on institutional needs.

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Rachel Marini, PharmD., UPMC Mercy, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completion of my PGY1, I hope to

complete a PGY2 specializing in critical care or cardiology. My ultimate goal is

to become a clinical pharmacist with some teaching responsibilities. I also hope

to remain an active member of many professional pharmacy organizations

throughout my career.

Kyle McCormick, PharmD., Gatti Pharmacy/University of Pittsburgh,

PGY1 Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years, I hope to own an

independent pharmacy. Independent ownership allows for flexibility in

offering a variety of pharmacy services. My true passion lies in the

convergence of healthcare, education, and technology. I want to

integrate these interests into my practice to deliver medication education and patient care

services in new ways through the use of technology. I also plan to help educate future

generations of pharmacists, through preceptorship, an academic role, or both.

Project/Research Question: Through my role at Gatti Pharmacy, I have the opportunity to

provide medication management services to patients on a daily basis. In this role, I compile a

comprehensive list of medications, OTCs, and herbals and supplements the patient is taking. My

research will focus on the collection and accuracy of this list. I will likely be assessing physician

perceptions of pharmacist-led creation and management of this list and best practices to

communicate changes.

Sean McGonigle, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY2

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I see myself practicing infectious

diseases pharmacy in an academic medical setting. It is my goal to be

directly involved in patient care as well as to help manage the

antimicrobial formulary and conduct clinical research.

Project/Research Question: I am going to investigate the effects of high

vancomycin MICs on MSSA endocarditis treated with beta-lactam

antibiotics. There is some evidence that higher vancomycin MIC predicts worse outcomes in

these patients, and it is possible that vancomycin resistance confers properties to bacteria that

make them either more virulent or less responsive to antibiotics.

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Ashley D. Modany, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I hope to be practicing as a Clinical Specialist

in either cardiology or ambulatory care at a large medical teaching institution. I

hope to be precepting students and residents just as I have been precepted in

order to foster the profession of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: My residency research project will focus on

identifying the number of patients with ejection fraction ≤ 35% that have

achieved target doses of heart failure medications in the advanced heart failure clinic at

Allegheny General Hospital. Through this retrospective chart review, I will aim not only to

identify the number of patients that have achieved these optimal doses, but also factors that have

contributed to the patient’s ability or inability to do so.

Erika Monacelli, PharmD., Moses Taylor Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My ultimate career goal is to obtain a position as

a clinical pharmacist. I want to become a valued member of a healthcare team

improving patient care and practicing patient-centered medicine. I strive to be a

lifelong learner and to share my enthusiasm with pharmacy students as well as

colleagues.

Project/Research Question: My research project topic has not yet been finalized

but I am planning to evaluate the treatment of sepsis at our hospital.

Cody Moore, PharmD., UPMC Presbyterian, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5-10 years, I envision myself as a clinical

faculty member associated with a college of pharmacy. I also aspire to practice

as a member of an interprofessional team in the field of solid organ

transplantation.

Project/Research Question: The research project that I have chosen is related

to transplant infectious disease. In lung transplant recipients, outcomes for

patients receiving aerosolized antimicrobials are not well-described. My project aims to study

the differential effects of aerosolized antimicrobials on pneumonia and bronchiolitis obliterans

syndrome (BOS) incidence in lung transplant patients.

Page 17: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Morgan Myers, PharmD., Lehigh Valley Health Network, PGY1

Graduate of: Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Upon completion of my PGY1 residency, I

hope to complete a specialty residency and then pursue a career in clinical

pharmacy that promotes innovation and multidisciplinary education.

Project/Research Question: My longitudinal research project will evaluate the

efficacy of Kcentra compared to fresh frozen plasma for warfarin reversal in

patients with traumatic brain injury.

Viet Nguyen, PharmD., ACME Sav-on Pharmacy and Temple University,

PGY1

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My goal as a pharmacist is to be a leader

and advocate for community pharmacy clinical programs. I hope to be in a

position where I have the opportunity to further develop our profession

around a strong, economically sound platform that will allow pharmacists to

have the most effective impact on public health.

Project/Research Question: With my research project I hope to answer the question, how do

community pharmacist interventions on drug-related problems impact clinical and economic

outcomes? The goal of my research project is to assess areas where community pharmacists

have the most success in addressing drug-related problems, and the scope of their contribution

towards successful clinical outcomes. I would also like to analyze the impact of these

interventions on health care related costs.

Kelsey Overfield, PharmD., St. Joseph Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: Wilkes University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I plan to work as a clinical pharmacist

in emergency medicine or ambulatory care pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: I will look at the impact of pharmacy lead

medication reconciliation in the emergency department.

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Diwura Owolabi, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Maryland Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Upon completion of my PGY-2 Oncology

Pharmacy Residency, I plan to practice as a BMT or oncology clinical

specialist in the outpatient or inpatient setting and work on getting my board

certification in oncology (BCOP).

Project/Research Question: My proposed research project will be looking

at the impact of physician documentation of interactions with oncology

clinical specialists in the outpatient setting on increasing physician billing levels allowing for

greater reimbursements.

Yogini Kiran Patel, PharmD., Temple University Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Northeastern University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In five to ten years, I see myself working as a

cardiology clinical pharmacist at a teaching hospital and as an assistant

professor at an affiliated school of pharmacy. I hope to further my career into

becoming a director of a pharmacy department where I can enhance the

profession of pharmacy through new innovations and strategies in optimizing

patient care.

Project/Research Question: My research project will be on the “Evaluation of Inpatient Falls

at Temple University Hospital.” I will be conducting a retrospective study to evaluate causes of

falls in hospitalized patients age 65 and older to explore the potential for pharmacist

interventions to prevent medication-related falls.

Nicole Payette, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY1

Graduate of: Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, University of the Sciences

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After my two years of residency training at

St. Margaret Hospital, my vision is to practice at a clinical site with ample

opportunity to teach. Teaching has always been a goal of mine, and I am

interested in teaching pharmacy students, pharmacy residents, medical

students, as well as medical residents at my practice site. After practicing for a

few years, I would like to gain a position as full-time faculty at a school of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: The research project I will be working on is one of the main

clinical aims of the PIVOTS (Pharmacist-led Interventions On Transitions of Seniors) project.

The question I will be looking into is the financial and pharmacoeconomic benefit of a

pharmacist addition to the interdisciplinary care team of seniors as they transition through

different care settings.

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Katelyn M. Pontore, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital,

PGY1/PGY2 Graduate of: West Virginia University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My short-term career ambitions are

to attain my MPH from the University of Pittsburgh, successfully

complete my health-system pharmacy administration residency,

become an adjunct faculty member at a pharmacy school, practice as

an effective pharmacy administrator, and continue leadership development.

My long-term career aspirations include serving on the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education

and other national organizations, developing a medication safety program, assist with curriculum reform,

and potentially become the dean at a school of pharmacy.

Project/Research Question: I will be evaluating allocated resources to support PGY1 and

PGY2 pharmacy residency programs at Allegheny General Hospital.

Sarah L. Rindfuss, PharmD., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My short-term goals include completing my

PGY-2 residency, obtaining BCPS certification, and finding a job where I am an

integral part of an interdisciplinary team and making a difference in patient’s

lives. I hope to be involved in the education of pharmacy and medical learners

and practicing with provider status!

Project/Research Question: Although clinical pharmacists have been involved

in family medicine for many years, there is little information published on the contributions these

pharmacists are making through publications, presentations, or education in general. My

research project this year will involve looking at the scholarly contributions that clinical family

medicine pharmacists are making, both from a clinical and educational standpoint.

Katherine Roberts, PharmD., UPMC Mercy, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My current professional interests include

critical care, cardiology, and research. I plan to pursue PGY2 residency training

in one of these specialty areas and to further my practice abilities by seeking

advanced certification through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties. Ultimately, I

desire a career with both clinical and academic components. I hope to provide

the same high level of knowledge and care to my patients and future students

that have been shared with me throughout my professional endeavors.

Project/Research Question: I intend to conduct a quality improvement project regarding

antibiotic utilization in the treatment of sepsis at UPMC Mercy.

Page 20: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Cristina Romeo, PharmD., Janssen Scientific Affairs, LLC, Academic and

Research Fellowship

Graduate of: The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years, I hope to still be in the

pharmaceutical industry world, possibly in medical information, or in another

branch of the industry setting. I would like to continue to impact and improve

patient care either directly or indirectly.

Project/Research Question: The research question is still being finalized, but I

would like to explore pharmacists’ quality of life in various avenues of pharmacy, such as

hospital, retail, ambulatory, industry, and academic settings.

Benjamin Rosati, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I would like to start and run my own

ambulatory care service focused in caring for patients suffering from

various chronic disease states. Ambulatory care is particularly interesting

to me because of the direct interaction and follow-up with the patients.

Educating patients about their disease states is very important and I have

fun working with them solve their medication related problems. Project/Research Question: What are the current prescribing

behaviors of physicians utilizing P2Y12 antagonists used for emergent catheterization in acute

coronary syndrome?

Samantha Rosenthal, PharmD., Hahnemann University

Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Thomas Jefferson University School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Upon completion of the PGY-1

residency at Hahnemann University Hospital, I plan to work as a

clinical pharmacist and serve as a preceptor for pharmacy

students.

Project/Research Question: My research project has not been finalized; however, it will focus

on the growing concern of multi-drug resistant organisms.

Page 21: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Jennifer Santamala, PharmD., Lancaster General Health, PGY1

Graduate of: University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years as a pharmacist I

envision myself continuing to work in the inpatient hospital

setting. I am very interested in the field of oncology and would feel

much fulfilled if I had the opportunity to practice in such a

specialty field. I also hope to be a part of research and current

projects going on throughout the pharmacy as well as the hospital in order to improve patient

outcomes every day.

Project/Research Question: My current research project is ‘Impact of lab standardization

practices in an ambulatory oncology center.’ Currently, there is little information regarding the

frequency of obtaining labs during chemotherapy treatment. This research project focuses on

standardizing the laboratory approach with the aim of increasing patient satisfaction from

decreased needle sticks as well as cost-savings to the health system.

Lori Schildroth, PharmD., Hartzell’s Pharmacy at Wilkes University, PGY1

Graduate of: The University of New England College of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In five years, I would like to be providing

clinical services to patients in a community practice setting. My passions are in

providing medication therapy management and geriatric care. I would also like

to explore the practices of travel medicine consultations and vaccinations. I

would also like to pursue independent ownership as I progress through my

career.

Project/Research Question: I am still finalizing my research question at this time. The topic

that I hope to study is primary care providers’ perspectives on community pharmacist

recommendations for medication changes in elderly patients being prescribed high-risk

medications.

Michael J. Schontz, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5-10 years, I envision myself

working within a multidisciplinary team of health care providers

within a critical care setting to advance medication use and safety

while precepting students and residents. Additionally, I would like

to be involved in national pharmacy organizations and committees.

Project/Research Question: I plan on evaluating the

implementation of hyperkalemia management guidelines and the appropriateness of therapy

choices by providers.

Page 22: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Rucha Shah, PharmD., Temple University Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: Jefferson School of Pharmacy, Thomas Jefferson University Year:

2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 to 10 years, I hope to be working as part of

a multi-disciplinary team in a hospital setting providing well-rounded health care

to patients. I also would enjoy working with pharmacy students as a preceptor

and being involved in clinical research.

Project/Research Question: The overall topic is the evaluation of risk factors

for hospital-acquired Clostridium difficile infection. The primary objective of the project is to

evaluate how many known risk factors are present in patients who acquire a C. diff infection

during their hospital stay.

Angela Shick, PharmD., UPMC Hamot, PGY1

Graduate of: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Within the next 5-10 years I hope be a

practicing pharmacist with a clinical faculty position. I also anticipate that I will

be board certified in pharmacotherapy and have a position that will give me the

opportunity to teach at an academic institution.

Project/Research Question: Although I am in the process of forming ideas for

my major project, nothing has been finalized. As of now, I am considering potentially doing a

project involving the investigation of the incidence of the continuation of PPIs outside the ICU

when they are no longer indicated for stress ulcer prophylaxis.

Ciara Simon, PharmD., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY1

Graduate of: University of Maryland Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I plan to be a board certified

ambulatory care pharmacist. I hope to practice in a setting that is

outpatient based and focuses on medication management, as well as

lifestyle modification. I am interested in educating patients on how

lifestyle choices alongside appropriate medication adherence can

further improve their disease state and quality of life. I also enjoy

teaching and look forward to precepting and mentoring pharmacy students in the future.

Project/Research Question: I am evaluating the process by which oral chemotherapy is

administered in the outpatient environment and its effect on patient adherence and follow up in

outpatient oncology clinics.

Page 23: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Evan J. Slagle, PharmD., St. Joseph Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: Jefferson School of Pharmacy Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I envision myself practicing in a

dynamic health system as a clinical pharmacist with special interest in

infectious disease. I expect to prepare for future challenges by becoming

BCPS certified and maintaining involvement with professional

organizations.

Project/Research Question: My residency research project will deal

with making interventions in the realm of antimicrobial stewardship in anticipation of laying a

foundation for a hospital-wide program.

Sean Smithgall, PharmD., Geisinger Medical Center, PGY1

Graduate of: East Tennessee State University Bill Gatton College of

Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After completing a PGY1 in

pharmacotherapy, I would like to complete a PGY2 in ambulatory care at a

school of pharmacy. In 10 years I see myself teaching and precepting future

pharmacists while still practicing ambulatory care in a community practice

site.

Project/Research Question: Impact of the MTM pain pharmacist on pain management. I’m

going to look at several pain clinics in the Geisinger Health System and compare different

outcomes to before and after the employment of a pain pharmacist. Some of these include ER

visits for narcotic prescriptions, abuse and misuse of narcotics, and patient quality of life.

Vivian W. Tang, PharmD., UPMC Shadyside, PGY1

Graduate of: Oregon State University College of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My plan is be a clinical pharmacist at a

large academic medical center with part of my time spent in the outpatient

setting. My professional interests include ambulatory care and oncology.

Grateful for the mentors that have positively influenced my career, I want to

give back to the profession by being a preceptor and staying involved in state

and national pharmacy organizations.

Project/Research Question: My research project involves the establishment of interdisciplinary

care services for hepatitis C patients seen at the UPMC Shadyside Family Health Center.

However, limited information exists on the general practitioners’ practice patterns and attitudes

regarding hepatitis C management. I am interested in identifying the physicians’ perceived

barriers to care in order to optimize the services provided at the Family Health Center.

Page 24: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Natalia Tarasiuk, Pharm.D., Lancaster General Health, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Mylan School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In five to ten years I hope to be

advancing my own career as well as the profession of pharmacy as

an ambulatory care clinical specialist. I plan to challenge the status

quo and work on being acknowledged as a provider and an

educator. I want to remain involved in pharmacy advocacy and

networking through professional organizations. In addition, I look forward to precepting students

and rearing the next generation of pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: My research involves the impact of pharmacist intervention in

Emergency Department antimicrobial stewardship. I hope to create a new performance

improvement initiative that will involve pharmacists following up on microbial labs to assess

appropriateness of therapy. In addition, pharmacists will be involved in following up with

patients to assess adherence and barriers to care. Finally, I hope to determine the impact of these

initiatives on readmission rates.

Kemeisha N. Taylor, Pharm.D., Reading Health System, PGY1

Graduate of: Temple University School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In 5 years, I envision myself working as a

Critical Care Pharmacy Specialist in an academic institution.

Project/Research Question: My residency research project is to assess the

effect on mortality of extended infusion piperacillin/tazobactam compared to

conventional infusion.

Tina N. Tran, Pharm.D., UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, PGY1

Graduate of: University of California, San Francisco School of Pharmacy

Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My professional interests include infectious

diseases, pharmacy education and global health. In the next 5 to 10 years, I am

committed to gain extensive clinical training through a variety of pharmacy

practice areas. After my PGY-1, I plan to pursue a PGY-2 in infectious

diseases or global health. My long term goal is to become a professor at a

pharmacy school where I serve as a clinical pharmacist, a pharmacy educator, and global health

advocate.

Project/Research Question: My research project will involve the identification and

characterization of preventable admissions secondary to adverse drug events (ADE) through the

Emergency Department (ED) at UPMC Shadyside. This is a retrospective study analyzing a

subgroup of patients who were admitted through the ED due to an ADE. The objectives of this

study are to (1) describe the frequency of ADEs through the ED at UPMC Shadyside and (2)

characterize the nature of these identified ADEs.

Page 25: Meet Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania’s 2014-15 Residents! Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association Brittany Cael, PharmD., Jeanes Hospital, PGY1 Graduate of: Temple

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Greg Trietley, Pharm.D., UPMC St. Margaret, PGY1/PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: After my family medicine residency, I hope to

find myself working in an outpatient setting with patients with diabetes,

hypertension and other all-too-common disease states. I also have interests in

both precepting and research, which will likely lead me to academia. I believe

that my residency will provide me the opportunities to head down this career

path.

Project/Research Question: My research project will look at the changes in antibiotic

prescribing practices for asymptomatic bacteriuria in the emergency department with the

addition of a pharmacist to the team. Improper antibiotic use has been an issue in the past with

asymptomatic bacteriuria, and I hope to show that pharmacist involvement improves these

prescribing practices.

William Trombatt, Pharm.D., Walgreen’s Specialty Pharmacy, PGY1

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2014

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In the future, I hope to be involved in

academia. I see myself being involved in research, teaching, and mentoring

students. I envision myself making an impact in these three areas and bettering

the profession of pharmacy by helping students become better pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: I believe that chronic diseases can be difficult for

patients on a daily basis. I hope to do research in one of these disease states. The

diseases that interest me the most are MS, RA, and infertility. Within one of these areas, I hope

to look at various treatments and the outcomes they have on patients.

Nathan Verlinden, Pharm.D., UPMC Presbyterian-Shadyside, PGY2

Graduate of: Drake University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: I plan on becoming a clinical faculty member

at a college of pharmacy where I can teach, research, and have my own clinical

practice site.

Project/Research Question: Many patients on long-term anticoagulation are

placed on concomitant dual antiplatelet therapy with a P2Y12 inhibitor and

aspirin after percutaneous intervention. My research project will retrospectively

look at patients on triple therapy to better clarify the bleeding risk in this patient population.

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Elyse Weitzman, Pharm.D., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY2

Graduate of: University of Pittsburgh Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: In my career, I hope to develop a practice as

an ambulatory care pharmacist in a clinic setting affiliated with school of

pharmacy and/or pharmacy residency program and become a preceptor. In 5-10

years, I aspire to become closely involved in clinical project management in

the ambulatory care setting, aiming to enhance the role of the pharmacist and

services offered, and ultimately branch out into a more population-

focused/public health role, such as in the managed care or government setting.

Project/Research Question: To determine whether the publication of the 2013 ACC/AHA

blood cholesterol guidelines changed prescribing practices for lipid lowering therapy in a tertiary

care clinic setting. Patients will be selected and analyzed before and 6 months after guideline

release. The primary objective is to determine the percentage change of patients on statin therapy

and non-statin lipid lowering therapy prior to and 6 months after the release of the new

cholesterol guidelines, when taking into account the level of adherence to the guidelines.

Arin C. Whitman, Pharm.D., Allegheny General Hospital, PGY2

Graduate of: Duquesne University Year: 2013

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: My pharmacy practice vision includes being

able to help patients by answering any questions or concerns they have and

helping the medical team to manage the chemotherapy regimens in order to

optimize safety and efficacy. In order to accomplish these goals, I want to

become BCOP certified. My long term goal is to share the knowledge I gain

with students in order to positively impact the next generation of pharmacists.

Project/Research Question: Healthcare professionals and patients often perceive oral

anticancer agents to be less toxic than intravenous chemotherapy. This results in an increased

risk of nonadherence, drug interactions, and adverse effects. The purpose of this project is to

standardize the assessment of adherence and toxicity management throughout specifically

designated oncology clinics to ensure the delivery of the same level of services to patients on

oral anticancer agents as intravenous chemotherapy patients.

G. Lucy Wilkening, Pharm.D., Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of

UPMC, PGY2

Graduate of: Southwestern Oklahoma State University College of Pharmacy

Year: 2012

My Pharmacy Practice Vision: Following training, I plan to work as a clinical

faculty member for a school of pharmacy. Given my interests in dual-diagnosis

and psychosis, I intend to work within one of these sub-specialties as a clinical

pharmacy specialist. I will focus my research on psychiatric pharmacy

education, and in five years, I hope to be progressing towards a professor appointment and to

have fostered pharmacy involvement in an interdisciplinary treatment team at my practice site.

Project/Research Question: During my PGY-2 residency year, I will be conducting two

separate research projects. One of my projects will evaluate use and efficacy of education

technology in the training and development of 3rd

year psychiatry residents. My other project

aims to assess learning style and associated outcomes with differing teaching methodology in 3rd

year pharmacy students.