Turning Adversity into Purpose: Dr. Kreitman’s Story
Life’s challenges often redirect us to paths we never imagined—paths filled with purpose and passion. This is exactly how Dr. Jorie Kreitman, now a pharmacy manager at Walgreens, discovered her calling in pharmacy. Her story is a powerful example of how early struggles can fuel lifelong dedication to helping others.
Early Spark: A Childhood Diagnosis That Changed Everything
At just 7 years old, Jorie was diagnosed with Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT), a condition that causes rapid or erratic heartbeats. A lengthy hospital stay during one episode left a lasting impression. “My curiosity about medicine really started then,” she recalls. “I had doctors, nurses, pharmacists constantly checking on me—it was fascinating.”
By 12, after a second heart procedure, she became even more intrigued. “I wanted to understand how medications worked, why certain ones were chosen. That curiosity never went away.”
From Volunteering to a Vocation
By 16, Jorie had earned her pharmacy technician license and began volunteering in a hospital pharmacy. Her journey formally began in 2014 at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, though she initially had reservations about working in community pharmacy.
Those doubts vanished once she joined Walgreens. “The growth opportunities surprised me. This role gave back everything I put into it. I’m so proud to be here—it’s worth every second of hard work and dedication.”
A Day in the Life of a Walgreens Pharmacist
As a pharmacy manager, Dr. Kreitman balances multiple responsibilities: verifying prescriptions, overseeing medication therapy management, administering immunizations, managing staff, and running new initiatives. Still, it’s the one-on-one patient interactions that bring her the most joy.
“Every day, I get to help someone understand their medication better. That connection is what I love,” she says. She also thrives on mentoring the next generation. “I love teaching students who visit the pharmacy—it reminds me of all there is to look forward to in this field.”
When Compassion Meets Crisis
Of course, every job has its challenges—especially when patients face barriers to accessing medications. During one night shift, a mother frantically called about her child’s seizure medicine. Dr. Kreitman sprang into action, coordinating a new prescription within two hours.
“The mom was in tears. In moments of panic, it’s hard to think clearly—I just wanted her to know I had it under control,” she shares. It’s just one example of how community pharmacists can make life-changing impacts in moments of need.
Recognizing the Value of Community Pharmacists
Dr. Kreitman believes it’s time to give community pharmacists the recognition they deserve. With 90% of Americans living within five miles of a pharmacy, these professionals are the most accessible healthcare providers in the country.
Her message to future pharmacists? “This career is full of purpose, and it will reward you in ways you never expected.”
Also Read : How This Pharmacist Uses Her Experience as a Girl Scout to Better Serve Her Patients and Students
