Carey Jones

Biographical Information 

Dr. Jones earned her PharmD degree from Drake University and is board certified in both pharmacotherapy and ambulatory care pharmacy. With over a decade of experience in specialty pharmacy, she now serves as a specialty pharmacist at Mayo Clinic Specialty Pharmacy, where her focus is on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Driven by her passion for patient care, she firmly believes that every individual should have prompt access to the medications necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.

Current employment, practice, and academic responsibilities:

Established in 1864, Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit healthcare organization that is dedicated to inspiring hope and promoting health through its three core pillars of Practice, Education, and Research. At the heart of Mayo Clinic's guiding principle is the belief that the best interest of the patient must always come first, as articulated by William J. Mayo MD. Mayo Clinic has major campuses in Rochester, Minn.; Scottsdale and Phoenix, Ariz.; and Jacksonville, Fla. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic Health System has multiple locations in several states, making its services accessible to more people. With a patient population that exceeds one million individuals each year from all 50 states and nearly 140 countries, Mayo Clinic is ranked #1 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report.

The Department of Pharmacy at Mayo Clinic employs nearly 730 individuals, including approximately 350 pharmacists, to provide comprehensive pharmaceutical services across multiple pharmacy locations. Mayo Clinic Specialty Pharmacy is accredited by ACHC and URAC for Specialty Pharmacy and offers innovative and patient-centered care for patients with complex medical conditions. As a member of the specialty pharmacist team, Dr. Jones plays an integral role in this mission. In her current capacity as a specialty pharmacist, she also leverages her expertise to serve as a valuable clinical resource for patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Significant projects and accomplishments:

As a pharmacist involved in pharmacy education, I have taken on significant projects such as serving as a Willow Ambulatory Care super user. In this role, I have been responsible for training and supporting other healthcare professionals in the use of the Willow Ambulatory Care electronic health record system. This has included developing training materials, leading training sessions, and providing ongoing support to ensure that the system is used effectively and efficiently to improve patient care. Through this project, I feel as though I have developed leadership, communication, and training skills while making a significant impact on patient care.

Promotion of Health System Pharmacy Practice 

Served as a member of a specialized team of pharmacists tasked with creating a comprehensive pharmacy intern program at Mayo Clinic. Additionally, contributed to the development of resources aimed at facilitating the implementation of a pharmacy intern program at Mayo Clinic.

Professional Engagement & SSPP  

As a specialty pharmacist, my involvement with the Section of Specialty Pharmacy Practitioners (SSPP) Section Advisory Group (SAG) at ASHP has been a valuable asset in keeping me up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of specialty pharmacy. Working with other pharmacy professionals in the field, I have had the opportunity to share innovative strategies and best practices. Staying engaged with ASHP and the SAG has enabled me to remain current with the latest trends in the profession, delivering optimal care to my patients. I recognize the importance of professional organizations like ASHP in advancing the pharmacy profession, providing advocacy, education, and networking opportunities to help pharmacists grow and improve patient outcomes.

Professional Advice 

If you're new to the field of specialty pharmacy, congratulations on taking the first step in a rewarding career! As a specialty pharmacist, I'd like to offer you some advice to help you navigate this dynamic and challenging field.

First, never stop learning. The specialty pharmacy landscape is constantly evolving, so it's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest developments, trends, and best practices. Attend conferences, participate in webinars, and read industry publications to expand your knowledge and stay ahead of the curve.

Second, build relationships. Specialty pharmacy is a team sport, and you'll need to work collaboratively with a variety of healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers to provide the best care possible. Develop strong relationships with these stakeholders, listen actively, and communicate clearly to build trust and ensure success.

Third, be patient-focused. Specialty pharmacy is all about the patient. As a specialty pharmacist, your role is to ensure that patients receive the best care possible, which means taking the time to understand their needs, preferences, and concerns. Empathy, compassion, and a patient-centered approach are key to success in this field.

Finally, embrace change. The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and specialty pharmacy is no exception. Keep an open mind and be willing to adapt to new technologies, regulations, and trends to ensure you stay ahead of the curve.

By following these principles, you can build a successful career in specialty pharmacy and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients. Good luck!