Name: Jarred Kelly (he/him)
Job Title: Clinical Pharmacy Specialist – Trauma and Critical Care
Years of Service: 7
Worksite: Kelowna General Hospital
Community: Okanagan
Ancestral Territory: syilx
Favourite Quote / Advice to live by: “Treat others as you wish to be treated and you'll never go wrong!”
Work plans can change at a moment’s notice for clinical pharmacy specialist Jarred Kelly, who provides clinical pharmacy services for trauma, critical care and emergency patients at Kelowna General Hospital.
“That’s what inspires me—no two days are the same. There is always something different and exciting happening,” he says.
Depending on the number of patients and emergencies, such as helping to resuscitate a trauma patient, Jarred’s morning routine varies. Generally, he completes bedside rounds with the health-care team which involves reviewing patients’ medication lists for efficacy and safety, developing pharmaceutical care plans, resolving drug therapy problems and educating patients.
Learn more about Jarred’s journey with IH
Jarred also precepts and mentors residents in the Interior Health Pharmacy Residency Program, where he completed his own post-graduate residency. As a preceptor—an experienced practitioner who provides supervision during clinical practice—one of his most memorable experiences was serving as principal investigator for a pharmacy resident’s research project.
“We found that when clinical pharmacists are involved [on trauma teams], patients may have improved outcomes. We also found that interprofessional trauma teams performed better and were more efficient and effective,” explains Jarred.
“As principal investigator, I also had the opportunity to present our project findings and highlight Interior Health at the Trauma Association of Canada Annual Conference in Halifax last year.”
His teaching extends to pharmacy students and residents, medical learners, staff physicians, nurses and allied health providers. Jarred also immerses himself in research and quality improvement activities, such as developing clinical practice guidelines and creating educational materials.
Improving access to medications to manage alcohol use disorder
With his extensive experience and education, including an advanced certification in critical care and working in hospitals and facilities across B.C., Jarred is driven by the opportunity to continuously learn and expand his knowledge, which has benefitted both providers and patients across IH.
“One of the things I’m very proud of is creating a prescription template that is now being used to prescribe medications for managing alcohol use disorder across our region. These medications have been historically underused and can help patients maintain abstinence and reduce cravings for alcohol and high-risk drinking behaviour.”
Pursuing a career in health care
Jarred’s journey in health care comes from a profound desire to help others, which was sparked by his father who was a firefighter for the City of Kelowna.
“The ability to make a difference and help people is a win-win. It improves their outcomes and quality of life while giving me meaning, purpose and immense job satisfaction.”
The people he interacts with at work also play a significant role in his success.
My patients inspire me daily with their resiliency, coping skills and positivity. My colleagues’ dedication and grace are incredibly motivating!
Appreciating nature and the outdoors
Outside of his busy career, Jarred loves to ground himself in nature, whether it’s above ground with activities like hiking, soccer and golfing, or underwater exploring the calming sights while scuba driving.
“I love how peaceful it is underwater. You just hear the sound of your own breathing and watch this magical world thriving all around you.
“Everywhere you look are these beautiful little creatures and unique ecosystems. It’s almost like looking up at the stars in the night sky. As your eyes start to adjust you see more and more stars. Underwater, the longer you stare at and examine a chunk of coral, the more life you start to notice. Plus, if you’re lucky, you get to see the incredible bigger creatures like manta rays and sea turtles. It’s a whole new world!”
Explore clinical pharmacy specialist Careers@IH
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