Takeaway
Great pharmacists are more than medication experts—they ask insightful questions, solve problems before they escalate, and follow through every time. Seek out these partnerships and treat pharmacists as essential collaborators.
Lifelong learning in clinical excellence | September 25, 2026 | 3 min read
By Katharine Russo, PharmD, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Healthcare has become too complex for any one clinician to manage alone. Medications are increasingly expensive, specialty therapies require extensive monitoring, insurance barriers consume valuable time, and treatment guidelines evolve rapidly. In this environment, a skilled pharmacist isn’t simply a medication expert. They’re clinical strategists, patient advocates, educators, and problem solvers.
Degrees and licenses establish competence, but exceptional pharmacists distinguish themselves through clinical judgment, communication skills, and ability to improve patient outcomes. For healthcare professionals seeking to build stronger interdisciplinary relationships, the question becomes: How do you identify an excellent pharmacist to partner with? What makes a pharmacist exceptional?
The best pharmacists do much more than verify prescriptions or identify drug interactions. An exceptional pharmacist consistently demonstrates:
1. Clinical curiosity
Outstanding pharmacists ask questions rather than simply process orders. They want to understand:
a.) Why a medication was chosen and is it safe
b.) What outcomes are expected
c.) What alternatives exist
d.) Whether treatment aligns with the patient’s goals
These pharmacists frequently review current literature, challenge assumptions respectfully, and remain engaged in lifelong learning.
2. Strong problem-solving skills
The most valuable pharmacists solve problems clinicians may not have time to address. Examples include:
a.) Formulary review and finding affordable alternatives when medications are cost prohibitive.
b.) Navigating prior authorizations and appeals.
c.) Converting formulations or therapeutic alternatives.
d.) Designing taper schedules.
e.) Managing complex pharmacotherapy regimens
f.) Identifying adherence barriers
3. Patient-centered care
Excellent pharmacists recognize that the “best” medication on paper may not be the best medication for the patient sitting in front of them. They routinely consider:
a.) Affordability
b.) Health literacy
c.) Transportation barriers
d.) Cultural preferences
e.) Caregiver burden
f.) Ability to administer or apply medications correctly
These pharmacists understand that effective treatment requires more than selecting the right drug.
4. Effective communication
Knowledge alone is insufficient. The best pharmacists can:
a.) Explain complex concepts clearly.
b.) Communicate recommendations succinctly.
c.) Provide actionable guidance
d.) Adapt their communication style to different audiences
5. Reliability
Exceptional pharmacists:
1. Follow through on commitments.
2. Respond promptly.
3. Close communication loops.
4. Anticipate problems before they arise.
Trust develops when clinicians know they can depend on a pharmacist’s recommendations and follow-up.
How to identify a great pharmacist:
1. Look beyond credentials.
Board certifications, residency training, fellowships, and advanced degrees are important achievements. However, credentials alone don’t guarantee excellence.
Instead, pay attention to pharmacists who:
a.) Consistently provide thoughtful recommendations.
b.) Support recommendations with evidence.
c.) Improve patient outcomes.
d.) Demonstrate professionalism during disagreements.
2. Observe team interactions.
Exceptional pharmacists are often recognized by how they participate in interdisciplinary discussions. They typically:
a.) Listen before speaking.
b.) Offer practical solutions.
c.) Focus on patient outcomes.
d.) Respect differing perspectives.
3. Evaluate the questions they ask.
Strong pharmacists ask insightful questions. For example:
a.) “Can the patient actually afford this medication?”
b.) “Will the patient be able to administer this correctly at home?”
c.) “What’s our backup plan if insurance denies coverage?”
Practical advice
If you work with pharmacists regularly, invest in those relationships. Consider:
a.) Inviting pharmacists to clinical discussions.
b.) Including them in quality improvement initiatives.
c.) Requesting their input early rather than after problems arise.
d.) Recognizing their contributions
The strongest healthcare teams view pharmacists as clinical partners rather than consultants of last resort.
An exceptional pharmacist does far more than dispense medications. They improve access, optimize therapy, educate patients, navigate barriers, and help healthcare teams deliver safer, more effective care. For healthcare professionals, finding a pharmacist who combines clinical expertise with communication skills, reliability, and patient-centered thinking can dramatically improve practice efficiency and patient outcomes. In an era of increasing healthcare complexity, the right pharmacist isn’t simply part of the team. They’re often one of the most valuable members.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.