When most people think of a pharmacy, they think about filling prescriptions. At SSM Health, pharmacy care goes further. Pharmacists take time to listen, solve problems, and support patients through every step of their care.
Across SSM Health pharmacies, pharmacists and technicians focus on one goal: helping care work in real life. That approach makes a difference patients can feel every day.
What makes SSM Health pharmacies different?
SSM Health pharmacies are built around patients, not volume. Pharmacists are part of the care team and can access medical records and contact providers directly. This connection helps them act fast and fix possible problems before they affect care. “Integrated pharmacy and clinic systems allow us to reach out to medical staff with questions easily and quickly, and provide a clearer picture for health care workers to assist the patient,” said Kimberly Gorden, Pharmacist at SSM Health Pharmacy in Madison, Wisconsin.
When a prescription is delayed, needs clarification, or runs into insurance issues, pharmacists can step in right away. That means fewer gaps in medication and less stress for patients. Many patients also appreciate being able to speak with a real person when they call — not an automated system.
“The resources that our pharmacists have access to exceed what is available in other retail pharmacy settings, such as Epic access and direct provider contact,” said Lisa Snider, Pharmacist at SSM Health Pharmacy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
More than filling prescriptions
Pharmacists at SSM Health do much more than dispense medications. They help patients understand what they are taking, why it matters, and how to take it safely. This includes explaining side effects, reviewing medication schedules, and answering questions that may come up after a doctor’s visit. Over time, pharmacists have become an important source of guidance and education, especially for patients managing long term conditions.
Care that shows up in everyday moments
Some of the most meaningful care happens in small moments. A pharmacist may catch a missing prescription, work through an insurance denial, or take extra time to sit with a patient who feels overwhelmed.
These actions help prevent missed doses, reduce confusion, and make care easier to manage. For many patients, knowing someone is paying attention can make a difficult day better.
“A patient with diabetes was struggling to manage more than a dozen medications,” said John Herdrich, Pharmacist at SSM Health Pharmacy in Greater Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. “One of our pharmacists took the time to sit down with him and review each one – what it was for and how to take it. He is a life-long customer now and always shares how well he is managing his diabetes.”
Building lasting relationships with patients
Many SSM Health pharmacists serve the same communities for years. This allows them to build strong relationships with patients and families.
Pharmacists often know a patient’s health history, medication needs, and personal concerns. Patients, in turn, know they can trust their pharmacist to look out for them. This level of connection is harder to achieve in settings with limited staffing or high turnover, but it is a priority at SSM Health.
Living the Mission through pharmacy care
SSM Health’s Mission, Vision, and Values guide daily work in the pharmacy. Pharmacists show compassion by helping patients find affordable options and solving coverage issues. They also connect them with assistance programs when needed.
Doing the right thing and treating patients with respect is part of every interaction. This focus helps create care experiences that feel personal, supportive, and reliable.
A key role in the care team
Pharmacists play an important role in the larger care team at SSM Health. They work closely with providers to support treatment plans and answer medication questions. By reinforcing provider instructions and helping patients understand next steps, pharmacists help improve outcomes and reduce confusion. This teamwork helps care move faster and work better for patients.
A place where pharmacists can make a difference
For pharmacists considering a career at SSM Health, the environment matters. Teams are supported with adequate staffing. This allows time for patient conversations and thoughtful care.
Pharmacists are encouraged to build relationships, collaborate with providers, and maintain work life balance. Most importantly, they can practice pharmacy in a way that puts patients first.
Learn more about SSM Health Pharmacy and find a pharmacy near you.
