Pharmacists change lives every day—and we think that’s something to celebrate! In this ongoing series, we spotlight pharmacists who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of their patients. Today, we want to share the story of Dr. Min Kwon, a pharmacist at Notre Dame University of Maryland, who made a remarkable impact on her patient’s life with a combination of medical expertise, quick thinking, and mobile technology.
The Problem
During a routine in-home patient consultation, Dr. Kwon visited an 80-year-old man who had been a regular patient for some time. On this particular visit, he mentioned that his foot was bothering him and asked if Dr. Kwon could take a look. Using her extensive medical knowledge, Dr. Kwon quickly assessed the situation and identified a potential medical issue that required immediate attention. However, there was a challenge: the patient was homebound and couldn’t easily get to a clinic or office to see a physician for further evaluation.
The Solution
Dr. Kwon had to act fast. She took a photo of the patient’s foot and sent it to a nurse practitioner. Then, she joined a phone call with the nurse to explain the symptoms. After reviewing everything, they decided the patient needed antibiotics right away.
But again, there was a challenge: the patient couldn’t travel to the pharmacy to collect the medicine.
So, Dr. Kwon stepped in once more. She got in the car with her students, drove to the pharmacy, and picked up the prescription herself. Then she returned to the patient’s home, delivered the medicine, and explained how to use it correctly. The nurse practitioner followed up the next day—and the patient was already doing better.
A Pharmacist Changing Lives
Thanks to Dr. Kwon’s quick thinking, modern technology, and dedication to her patient’s well-being, the elderly man received the care he needed without ever leaving his home. This story highlights how pharmacists, like Dr. Kwon, consistently go above and beyond to ensure their patients get the best possible care, even when challenges arise.
Also Read : 4 Challenges Pharmacists Face When Caring for Teens
