Kathleen Hidalgo

Kathleen’s Story

Kathleen Hidalgo Pankin, Pharm.D., M.S., BCPS, received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. She completed APPEs at Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Virginia, and Inova in Northern Virginia. Dr. Hidalgo then earned her Master of Science from University of Florida in Patient Safety and Medication Risk Management. She is board certified in pharmacotherapy.

Overview of Facility/Health System

Memorial Healthcare System is a community health system in South Florida comprised of six hospitals, nine primary care centers, two urgent care centers, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation programs. Many prestigious healthcare awards have been earned by Memorial Healthcare System and its facilities. The accolades include: Modern Healthcare magazine's Best Places to Work in Healthcare, Florida Trend magazine's Best Companies to Work for in Florida, 100 Top Hospitals, Consumer Choice Award, Best-Run Hospital, Best Nursing Staff, Best Pediatric Hospital and Best Maternity Hospital. The health care system was also honored by the American Hospital Association with the "Living the Vision" award and the "Foster G. McGaw" award for which Memorial was selected from more than 5,000 hospitals as the national model for improving the health of the community.

Significant Projects

Dr. Hidalgo is continually involved in volunteer and leadership roles at her hospital, including student development. She is currently a member of the ASHP Section of Inpatient Care Practitioners’ Educational Steering Committee. She has served on the ASHP Section Advisory Group on Advancing Pharmacy Practice with Technicians as a vice chair and as a member. She has also served on the ASHP Section of Clinical Specialists and Scientists’ Advisory Group on Emergency Care as a network facilitator and as a member. During pharmacy school, she was a member of the ASHP Pharmacy Student Forum on communications. Dr. Hidalgo is currently a Courtesy Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida College of Pharmacy. 

Initial Involvement in ASHP

I have been a proud member of ASHP since my first year in pharmacy school. I served as an officer in our SSHP chapter and was an active member of the Virginia Society of Health-System Pharmacists. I’m a current member of the Florida Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Why did you become involved in ASHP?

I knew even before pharmacy school that I wanted to work in acute care. I was inspired and energized by the size of ASHP and all of the events and opportunities available to members. I wanted to learn more about this profession and connect with others.

Advice for Someone New to Your Specialty Area

I would share the same advice for a variety of specialties. Study, read, learn, and keep your ears open. Look for patterns, observe your surroundings, and punctuality and professionalism are paramount. Be respectful of other people's time and space and be respectful of the facility where you are learning. Most pharmacists are willing to mentor students, if you are willing to be mentored. I believe that a students and pharmacists can excel in a variety of specialties if you bring the proper mindset.

How would you explain the value of ASHP to a friend or colleague?

ASHP is the organization to join and be involved in if you are even considering an interest in acute or ambulatory care. The more you explore and participate in this organization, the more rewarding it will be for you and those you encounter.

What is the value of ASHP for the profession?

Pharmacists must support each other to ensure the continued development and progress of the profession. Additionally, ASHP advocates for and promotes the continued advancement of the profession by working toward expanded demand for pharmacists’ expertise and support from the interedisciplinary healthcare team.