Davy Anne Mendoza, CPhT-Adv
Medication Reconciliation Technician
Atlantic Health System
Clark, NJ
Certification
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
Number of Years at Organization
2 Years
Why did you become a pharmacy technician?
I became a pharmacy technician in September of 2020. During the height of the pandemic, I decided that I wanted to help and serve by vaccinating the community. Having no prior pharmacy background, I started working in the retail setting to learn the foundations and basics pharmacy. There was an urgent need for immunizers at the time, and I was determined to serve the community.
How long have you been practicing?
I have been practicing as a pharmacy technician since 2020. I started in the retail setting where I learned all about operations and pharmacy workflows. During my time in retail, I took on roles as a COVID-19 immunizer, inventory technician, and lead pharmacy technician. In March of 2022, I switched to the hospital setting where I found my current role as a medication reconciliation technician. In January of 2023, I decided to pursue the CPhT-Adv certification to further my knowledge in the field. In September of 2023, I was able to achieve that goal due to the help of my peers and mentors.
What are you most proud of in your professional career?
I am most proud of the difference I make in the lives of each patient. As a medication reconciliation technician, I have direct contact with patients in the emergency department in order to provide smooth transitions of care. The sense of relief that the patients and families feel after knowing that someone is paying extra attention to the smallest details of their medication history is very fulfilling. Every day I know that I make a direct impact in preventing medication errors and optimizing medication therapies.
What is your most memorable experience as a pharmacy technician?
My most memorable experience would be advocating for my patients and seeing the difference that it makes to their care. As pharmacy technicians, the interactions that we have with our patients make a direct impact on their day-to-day lives. We are able to observe and really listen to their needs and concerns. Ultimately, we can advocate to get them the help that they need.
Why did you become certified?
I pursued certification to expand my knowledge. Achieving certification has opened numerous opportunities for advancing my career.
What career advice do you have for others interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
My advice to fellow technicians is to continue learning. Our field is constantly changing and there are always new opportunities to grow and learn. Having a mentor and being in touch with experienced technicians is what guided me through my journey as a pharmacy technician. There is a great sense of community in the pharmacy world, and everyone is always willing to help. So never be afraid to ask and put yourself out there.