We have a new pharmacist: Kayla Costello.
I think most of you trust that I hire good people, and I appreciate that trust. Kayla is definitely good people. Super smart, very kind, and most importantly, she works VERY hard to do the right thing for our patients.
Here’s an example that just happened yesterday (on her second day as a pharmacist with us):
A long time patient’s son is starting on a new drug. The family had questions about coverage, availability, and how to start it. Most importantly, they wanted to know how to wean off the medicine if it wasn’t the right fit.
Kayla found there was no published information about the proper weaning protocol. She searched and searched, then called the manufacturer and doctor. Although she came up short all around, she spent a chunk of time figure it all out.
She came up with a plan based on her read of the science and experience, and closed the loop by chatting with the family and assuaging their fears.
And she did all of that for a prescription we aren’t even filling. We can’t fill it because it would be a loss for us (due to the insurance), so we can’t even order it. She STILL went above and beyond to make sure the patient was cared for and the family was good.
That’s the stuff I saw 30 years ago as a kid working in a pharmacy that made me want to be a pharmacist. That’s what we try to do every day. And that’s what she did as a reflex. She was thrilled to do it, because at her past job at CVS, she absolutely could not provide that level of care.
Kayla wholeheartedly gets my FULL blessing and confidence. I hope you guys say “Hi” the next time you are in!
Neal Smoller, PharmD
Neal is the founder and holistic pharmacist of Village Apothecary in Woodstock, NY. Established in 2010, the independent pharmacy offers a number of modern services like prescription syncing, vaccines, and home delivery, while maintaining an emphasis on natural products and wellness.
Faced with a deeply flawed supplement industry that puts company sales over customer safety and results, Neal established Woodstock Vitamins to meet his high standards for ingredient quality, dosage, ethical sourcing, and bioavailability.
