We like to check in with our Plein Geriatric Certificate Alumni and find out what they are up to now? How did the Certificate make a difference in their career? This issue, we spoke with Annie Lam, ’95.
What is your title? Where do you work/study now?
My title at UW is Clinical Associate Professor. Currently, I am a self-employed consultant pharmacist providing medication consultation services to private pay independent community dwelling older adults.
Why did you choose geriatric pharmacy?
I was attracted to geriatric pharmacy due to the complicated health issues and unique medication needs of this population. It has been most rewarding to apply what I learn in classroom and clinical clerkships into daily practice, and to help patients address identified unmet needs in managing their medication therapy.
When did you earn your Geriatric Pharmacy Certificate?
I earned the Geriatric Pharmacy Certificate at University of Washington School of Pharmacy in 1995.
How has the Geriatric Pharmacy Certificate changed/improved your career/research?
About two years after I graduated from UWSOP with my BS Pharm and PharmD degrees, along with the Geriatric Certificate, I was recruited to return to UW to teach geriatric elective courses. This led to a very rewarding academic career at the School, during which I conducted numerous practice-based research projects and published several research reports on chronic diseases and medication therapy management. The training and learning from the Certification Program also provided a strong foundation that allowed me to develop and acquire expertise in geriatric pharmacy practice with focus on assisted living and community-dwelling elderly population. In addition to teaching several geriatric elective courses, I precepted geriatric certificate students in their clerkships, and exposed them to research activities. I was the clerkship coordinator responsible for the assigning the students in the Geriatric Certificate Program to their geriatric practice sites from 2004 to 2007, and from 2007 to 2009, I was the co-Director of the Geriatric Certificate Program, along with Peggy Odegard.
What stands out for you as you think back on the Certificate?
The case discussion sessions held at The Hearthstone during late afternoon and early evening hours stand out for me. The discussions in these sessions were always so in-depth, interactive, and interesting, which made them so memorable and worthwhile.
What are one or two fun facts about you?
I became a grandmother of two lovely grandchildren, a grandson and a granddaughter, who were born 2 weeks apart in early 2014. We are expecting the arrival of our third grandchild this Christmas. Can’t wait!!
How do you like your coffee?
I like my coffee strong- 1/3 cup very strong coffee diluted with 2/3 cup skim milk.
Are you interested in working with the top-rated faculty and studying geriatric pharmacy with preeminent student peers?
Click here for more information about the Plein Geriatric Pharmacy Certificate or click these links to learn about the UW PharmD program.