Abigail Johnson

Her Story
Dr. Abigail Johnson received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2017 from Ferris State University College of Pharmacy in Big Rapids, Michigan. She became interested in ambulatory care pharmacy after her fourth year APPE rotations with a large academic healthcare system in Grand Rapids, MI. She received Board Certification in Ambulatory Care Pharmacy (BCACP) in 2023.

Professional responsibilities include medication therapy management, quality measure monitoring and support, preceptorship for APPE students, physician and patient education, and analyzing healthcare data to identify areas for improvement in patient care and cost containment.

Describe the facility where you work
Trinity Health Alliance of Michigan is a clinically integrated network (CIN) with the goal of transforming health care in Michigan through collaborative relationships with physicians, health systems, payers, patients, and communities. Care is delivered in patient centered settings, assuring timely access with a focus on quality, service, and cost containment.

Recent Significant Projects
Dr. Johnson has responsibility in leading weight management initiatives, including launching a lifestyle medicine pilot program in 2023 and leading an ongoing initiative to control costs of expensive anti-obesity medications. The lifestyle medicine program recently received funding for two additional cohorts. Dr. Johnson leads a medication adherence initiative, which utilizes pharmacists, pharmacy students, and pharmacy technicians. The pharmacy team members engage with patients that are struggling to take medications as directed and provide patient-specific solutions.

Initial Involvement in ASHP
Dr. Johnson is currently serving as a member with the ASHP Section of Ambulatory Care Practitioners Section Advisory Group (SAG) for Medication Management Services.

Why did you become involved in ASHP?
Dr. Johnson joined ASHP to take advantage of networking opportunities, professional development, and the chance to contribute to the growth of pharmacy practice.

Advice for Someone New to Specialty Area
Embrace continuous learning, specifically surrounding quality measures, how to use healthcare data, and cost-containment strategies. Build strong communication skills and collaborate with other healthcare professionals as much as possible. Become proficient in medication therapy management and patient education.

How would you explain the value of ASHP to a friend or colleague?
ASHP provides many diverse opportunities for career growth, professional connections, and continuing education.

What is the value of ASHP for the profession?
ASHP adds value to the profession through networking, advocacy, leadership opportunities, and staying current with industry trends.