Moving to a new country at a young age can be a daunting experience, but for me, it was a pivotal moment that shaped my career in pharmacy. Originally from India, I made the decision to move to the United States at the age of 18 to pursue my dream of becoming a pharmacist. Little did I know that this decision would lead me down a path towards managed care pharmacy and a fulfilling career in healthcare.
During my time in pharmacy school at the University of Toledo, I was fortunate to have a mentor, Pranav Patel, who introduced me to the world of managed care pharmacy. This introduction sparked my interest and led me to undertake an internship at a local health plan, where I gained valuable experience and insights into the industry. Graduating with a Pharm.D. degree, I was driven by a deep commitment to making a positive impact within the healthcare sector.
As the director of specialty clinical solutions at Prime, I now utilize my extensive clinical expertise and business acumen in specialty drug management. In this role, I play a crucial part in shaping the medical drug strategy for health plan clients, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. Prior to my current position, I worked at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, specializing in Part B drug management and implementing cost-saving initiatives tailored for Medicare Advantage plans.
One of the defining moments in my career came during my third year of pharmacy school when I had to decide whether to pursue a residency. At that time, I was not a U.S. citizen and had limited time to secure employment post-graduation. It was my academic adviser and mentor, Steven Martin, who encouraged me to pursue my ideal career path, assuring me that life would align to make it happen. Taking his advice to heart, I completed a one-year residency that opened the doors to managed care pharmacy and set me on the path to where I am today.
As a leader in my organization and in healthcare, my top priorities revolve around patient care and fostering a positive work environment. Patient care is always at the forefront of my decision-making process, aligning closely with Prime Therapeutics‘ commitment to providing the same level of care we would want for our loved ones. Additionally, I prioritize creating an optimistic atmosphere where new ideas can flourish and meaningful solutions can be developed. In my role as a coordinator for the specialty-focused Prime Therapeutics residency program, I mentor and train the next generation of managed care pharmacy leaders, ensuring a bright future for the industry.
If I could change one thing about U.S. healthcare, it would be to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all. Breaking down barriers to healthcare through improving health literacy and expanding accessibility in rural areas is crucial in creating a more inclusive and effective healthcare system.
When it comes to maintaining a work-life balance, I believe in giving my all to work when I am there and fully committing to non-work aspects such as family, hobbies, and leisure activities when I am not working. This approach allows me to achieve harmony and fulfillment in both my professional and personal life.
If I could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, it would be Mark Cuban. I admire his journey of self-creation and his unwavering focus on achieving his goals across various industries. His perspectives on leadership, innovation, resilience, and seizing opportunities in the business world would be invaluable to learn from.
In conclusion, my journey from India to the United States has been filled with challenges and opportunities that have shaped my career in pharmacy. Through dedication, mentorship, and a commitment to patient care, I have found fulfillment in making a positive impact within the healthcare industry.