What are you passionate about in long term care and how are you pursuing your passion?

I am passionate about reducing medication related adverse events. I pursue this microscopically at my facilities by ensuring adequate training for the nursing department. In a larger perspective, by participating with organizations such as CALTCM I am able to reach more practitioners about safe medication practices; as well as, learn methods to help improve the quality of care at my facilities.

What advice would you give to a new graduate contemplating a career in long term care?

JUST DO IT!! It is the most rewarding sector of medicine at this time. The “geriatric” population is so dynamic. The present generation has aged well and is a wealth of information. In addition, because long term care may often be a closed system, you can track patients and see the positive influence you have had.

What additional training do you wish you had that may help with your current practice?

I wish the pharmacy discipline had a mid level practitioner track similar to NPs. It has been in the pipeline but we still have limited ways to secure reimbursement for cognitive services.

How has CALTCM impacted your practice?

I love the interdisciplinary approach of CALTCM. Even though it is the California chapter of AMDA, we openly welcome all disciplines. I have made so many positive connections thru my affiliation with CALTCM. The best part is having various experts available at your immediate reach when an a situation arises.