We are IH: Pharmacy leader grateful to make a difference

“What inspires me most about my work is the people. This includes both the patients who entrust us with their care and all members of the health-care team, who dedicate themselves to supporting them,” says Kaitlyn. “I feel incredibly grateful that I have the opportunity to make a difference.”

Kaitlyn’s journey as a health-care professional has been driven by continually challenging herself, an approach she says has been pivotal to getting her where she is today.

“The most important step that brought me to this point in my career was taking risks, even when it felt uncomfortable or the timing didn’t seem ideal,” she shares. “I pursued opportunities that challenged me, such as taking on new responsibilities or stepping into a leadership role. Each experience, including the ones that didn't have an outcome I was hoping for, helped me grow, build resilience, and strengthen my commitment to both patients and my team.”

As a professional practice leader, Kaitlyn’s typical day starts with reviewing staffing and ensuring job duties are distributed appropriately to support patient care. She then focuses on project work, key priorities and collaborating with different partners to ensure patients receive the best pharmaceutical care.

The fast pace and quick problem-solving required mean that no two days are the same for her, which fuels her motivation and passion for the role.

Kaitlyn recalls the Pharmacy Residency Program as her most memorable time at IH. During the program, she had the opportunity to complete several direct patient care rotations in both acute (hospital) and ambulatory settings. She still uses the skills and knowledge she learned in that first year in her leadership role today and feels grateful for the enduring friendships she made with her co-residents.

A big part of that support is adopting the principles of inclusion, belonging and accessibility to help her team members feel valued, respected and able to fully contribute their best selves. “It’s about removing barriers and creating a space where people can be themselves and succeed.”

Kaitlyn also believes these principles apply to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. “For me, reconciliation means acknowledging the impacts of colonization, listening to Indigenous voices, and promoting equity in health care.

“As a pharmacist, it involves providing culturally safe care, respecting traditional knowledge, and helping reduce health disparities in Indigenous communities. I see humility as being essential to reconciliation as it involves acknowledging I don’t have all the answers but am committed to continuous lifelong learning.”

Outside of work, Kaitlyn spends most of her time these days with her young kids, hiking, gardening and cooking. She also enjoys a good audio book that lets her multitask. With spring just around the corner, she’s looking forward to welcoming the change of season and seeing the Adventure Club in Kamloops in April.

A fun fact many don’t know about Kaitlyn is when she was 12 years old, she set a record for the biggest lake trout caught by a girl under 12.

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