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Student鈥檚 emergency medicine experience sparks passion for clinical pharmacy
No two days were ever the same for Kevin Hatley 鈥�26. Whether working as an emergency department technician or an emergency medical technician, his shifts were always marked by urgency and unpredictability. He prepared supplies and equipment, took vital signs, administered first aid and assisted with medical procedures. Whether responding to emergency calls in the field or caring for patients in the emergency room, Hatley thrives in the fast-paced rhythm of emergency medicine.
During his nine years working in the emergency department, Hatley worked within a tight-knit hospital team that included one physician, three nurses and one technician. The hospital also integrated pharmacists into the emergency department, an experience that altered the course of his career.
鈥淩esponding to a patient code in the ER, as I had done many times, and seeing a pharmacist involved in handling medications and attending to patients was an eye-opening experience,鈥� said Hatley. 鈥淚t fueled my passion for clinical pharmacy and reignited my academic journey.鈥�
Now as a second-year doctor of pharmacy student, he is advocating for the importance of clinical pharmacy. Through leadership roles, he has helped raise awareness about osteoporosis and promoted health and wellness in the wider community.
Hatley鈥檚 understanding of medications, formulary decisions and medical billing have been sharpened by the Medicare Part D elective.
鈥淎s I complete my managed care rotation, I realized what we learn as students prepares us for the real world,鈥� Hatley said. 鈥淭here are life experiences that stay with you, and the Medicare Part D program was one of those experiences.鈥�
Hatley has been recognized with multiple academic scholarships honoring his unique story and achievements. The support of his wife, as well as faculty and donors, has empowered him to pursue his dream of becoming a clinical pharmacist 鈥� one who continues his commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and advancing health equity.
鈥淭he scholarships made me realize that being a pharmacist isn鈥檛 just about building my career,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about joining a profession that takes care of one another while advancing patient care. I also love teaching and hope to one day serve in a role that allows me to mentor and inspire others.鈥�
