We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Sue Ojageer, PharmD recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Sue , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
My parents’ unwavering emphasis on the significance of education has been the bedrock of my life and career. They continuously stressed that education is an enduring asset that would accompany me throughout my life’s journey. This philosophy was deeply rooted in our family and profoundly influenced the person I have become.
As immigrants from Guyana, South America, my parents and I made the journey to the United States when I was 5 years old in pursuit of a better life and brighter opportunities for our family. Amidst the transition and adaptation to a new culture, one thing remained constant: their unwavering commitment to education. Growing up in the culturally diverse landscape of Queens, New York, I was immersed in an environment where the pursuit of knowledge was held in the highest regard.
From a tender age, my parents instilled in me a profound work ethic, an unyielding determination, and a deep sense of responsibility. Despite lacking formal education and professional degrees themselves, they imparted invaluable life lessons that aren’t found in textbooks but were etched into my character. These were not mere principles they spoke of; they were values interwoven into the very fabric of our family. Their relentless dedication to providing me with the best possible upbringing and exposure to a culturally rich life was an invaluable gift for which I can never fully repay them.
The virtues of perseverance, discipline, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence, which my parents epitomized, have become an integral part of my character. These values have served as my guiding compass on my journey in the medical field, steering me through every challenge and triumph. One poignant memory that vividly illustrates their influence revolves around their encouragement of my insatiable curiosity and thirst for knowledge. My parents would often recount their own life experiences, replete with trials and the arduous task of making ends meet. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of education’s transformative potential and its capacity to transcend obstacles.
Moreover, they consistently impressed upon me the tremendous opportunities available in the United States and the corresponding responsibility that came with these privileges: the responsibility to give back and make a meaningful difference. These early lessons ignited a passion for medicine within me and instilled a steadfast commitment to leveraging my knowledge and skills to serve others in the realm of healthcare.
My parents’ unwavering dedication to education, their ability to impart the values of hard work, resilience, and responsibility, and their constant encouragement of my intellectual curiosity have been the cornerstone of my personal and professional journey. Their influence lives in my work, as I strive to make a lasting impact on healthcare and, in turn, the world, just as they did for me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into the healthcare industry, specifically as a pharmacist and healthcare advocate, has been a profoundly rewarding and purpose-driven path. It all began with a profound dedication to delivering accessible and individualized care to patients. Early in my career, I was fortunate to witness exceptional pharmacists who built personal connections with their patients, readily addressed their inquiries, and played a vital role in their healthcare journeys. These pharmacists served as great inspirations to me, and I became determined to join their ranks, aspiring to become a trusted figure in people’s lives.
As a pharmacist, I recognized that patients were more than just numbers on a prescription. Despite the fast-paced nature of common pharmacy settings, I made it my mission to provide individualized care to each patient. I took the time to get to know them on a personal level, understand their unique healthcare needs, and build genuine, personal relationships. This level of personalized care became my differentiating factor as a pharmacist, and it allowed me to provide the best care possible.
I used this as an opportunity to step up and become a patient advocate. I wanted to be someone who was relatable, trustworthy, and highly knowledgeable in my field. To reach a wider audience and educate them about various health-related topics, I leveraged the power of social media. What began as a fun way to educate my followers quickly evolved into a thriving patient concierge service. Through social media, I leveraged my knowledge as a clinical pharmacist and educated many on pharmacy related topics. This allowed me to build strong and meaningful relationships with my patients, helping countless individuals achieve better health outcomes.
Staying relevant in the ever-evolving world of healthcare and embracing technology became key to providing the best care for my patients. I also wanted to empower patients to be more involved in their healthcare and make their experience more personalized. Being a pharmacist, to me, was not just about dispensing medication; it was about being genuine with my patients and providing them with the knowledge and resources they needed to take control of their health.
Today, I am an award-winning pharmacist with over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry. I founded PharmaSue™, a revolutionary concierge health practice, to provide personalized treatment plans and empower individuals to take charge of their health and wellness. I am recognized as a pharmacy influencer and continue to educate and inform my followers on healthcare and wellness through my social media platforms. I am deeply committed to patient advocacy and promoting an active role in health and well-being, both as a healthcare professional and an author.
Starting my own practice was indeed a challenging endeavor, but I approached it with a clear vision and a solid plan. I focused on understanding the needs of my target patient population and tailored my services to meet those needs. I developed a detailed business plan that included financial analysis, a robust marketing strategy, and a comprehensive plan for day-to-day operations. Equally important was surrounding myself with a strong support system of mentors and colleagues who provided invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout this journey.
Building a strong reputation within my market was a result of my authenticity and genuine care for my patients. By being relatable, honest, and approachable, I was able to connect with my patients on a deep level and establish trust. I simplified complex medical information, took the time to listen to their concerns, and provided the support they needed to manage their health effectively. Treating my patients with compassion and empathy became a cornerstone of my reputation.
What I am most proud of is the positive impact I’ve been able to make in the lives of countless individuals. I’ve seen patients achieve better health outcomes, gain confidence in managing their health, and become active advocates for their well-being. My journey has allowed me to bridge the gap between traditional healthcare and the evolving needs of patients in today’s digital age. I am proud to have helped individuals take control of their health and make informed decisions. Ultimately, what sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to patient-centered care, my ability to leverage technology for better patient outcomes, and my dedication to empowering individuals to become active participants in their health journeys. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that I am deeply passionate about healthcare, and my work is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s through personalized treatment plans, educational content, or advocacy efforts, I am dedicated to promoting a healthier, more informed, and empowered society.
Furthermore, I am not only committed to my individual practice but also to elevating the pharmacy profession as a whole. I am actively building PharmacyMentors.com a diverse platform of pharmacists that offers mentorship, guidance, and invaluable insights to both aspiring and seasoned professionals within the field. Recognizing the need for mentorship and professional development, I have highlighted the role of a mentor to help shape the next generation of pharmacists and healthcare professionals. Through this platform, they provide guidance on navigating the complexities of the pharmacy profession, offer insights into the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, and share the wisdom gained from my own journey. My goal is to foster a supportive community where young and seasoned professionals alike can learn, grow, and thrive in their careers. By empowering others with knowledge, experience, and a network of like-minded individuals, I hope to contribute to the ongoing transformation and elevation of the pharmacy profession.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Absolutely, without a doubt, I would choose the same profession and specialty again. Being a pharmacist and a healthcare advocate has been a deeply fulfilling and purpose-driven journey for me. It has allowed me to make a positive impact in the lives of countless individuals, bridge the gap between traditional healthcare and the evolving needs of patients, and empower people to take control of their health. The ability to provide personalized care, offer guidance, and advocate for patient well-being has been incredibly rewarding.
I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and I often reflect on this quote, “In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.” Each step of my journey, every challenge, every triumph, and every opportunity to learn has been a valuable lesson that has shaped me into the healthcare professional I am today. These lessons have reinforced my passion for patient-centered care and my dedication to helping individuals navigate their healthcare journeys.
So, if I were to go back in time and make the choice again, I would do it with the same enthusiasm and determination. My profession is not just a job; it’s a calling, a mission, and a testament to the belief that we can positively impact lives through healthcare. I’m grateful for every lesson and test that life has presented me, as they have led me to where I am today, fully committed to making a meaningful difference in the world.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
Beyond the vital training and knowledge, I firmly believe that empathy and compassion lie at the heart of success in my profession as a pharmacist and healthcare advocate. It’s about truly connecting with patients on a profoundly human level, recognizing their fears and anxieties, and building trust that goes far beyond the clinical realm. Effective communication becomes the bridge that allows me to convey intricate medical information with clarity, engaging patients as active participants in their healthcare decisions.
The ever-changing landscape of healthcare demands adaptability, problem-solving prowess, and a fierce commitment to advocating for the well-being of those under my care. Balancing the demands of time management, demonstrating cultural sensitivity, nurturing resilience, and embracing a lifelong learning journey are all essential facets of my role. Additionally, forging connections within the profession through networking serves as a vital channel for knowledge exchange and ensures I stay attuned to the latest healthcare advancements. In essence, it’s this fusion of deeply human qualities and unwavering dedication that illuminates my path and defines the impact I strive to make in the world of healthcare.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.PharmaSue.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/pharma.sue?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PharmaSue-104637788715946/
- Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sueojageer
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SueOjageer
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PharmaSue?sub_confirmation=1
- Pharmacy Mentors: www.PharmacyMentors.com
- Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/sueojageer
- LinkTr.ee: https://linktr.ee/Sue.Ojageer
Image Credits
I own the rights to all images above