As I reflect on my 20-year journey as a pharmacist, I can’t help but think about the challenges, the triumphs, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I am proud of my accomplishments and have no problem demanding the respect I’ve earned by asking to be addressed as “Doctor.”
I graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana in 2003 at twenty-three. The six-year program required lots of dedication, sacrifice, and hard work. I spent countless hours in the library while my sorority sisters and friends hung out. When they share memories, I’m constantly reminded that my absence was because “you were in pharmacy school.”
My pharmacist journey was a challenging one. There were sleepless nights, difficult exams, and moments when I doubted whether I could continue, but I persevered because I was passionate about the field. (My mother said I expressed my desire to become a pharmacist at the age of seven!) One of the most frustrating aspects of having a doctorate in pharmacy is the lack of respect that often comes with it. Many people assume that only medical doctors deserve the “Doctor.” While I greatly respect medical doctors and their critical role in patient care, it’s important to recognize that pharmacists with doctorates have unique expertise and responsibilities.
Pharmacists don’t just count pills; we are medication experts who play a crucial role in patient care. We ensure that medications are safe, effective, and appropriate for everyone. We collaborate with healthcare providers to optimize treatment plans and manage complex medication regimens. We educate patients on how to take their medications and monitor for potential side effects or interactions. Pharmacists are integral to the healthcare team, and our knowledge and expertise should be acknowledged and respected.
I’m willing to bet that a pharmacist has saved your life—if not, they will.
I’ve encountered my fair share of situations where my title was overlooked or dismissed. Early in my career, I was told that I was too young to be a doctor. Patients—and even some healthcare colleagues—have referred to me as “Miss” or “Mrs.” rather than “Doctor.” I’ve even been asked, “What kind of doctor are you?” when my title is included in front of my name.
When I reply, “I’m a pharmacist,” I am met with awkwardness as if that isn’t good enough.
Seeing the hard-earned recognition of my expertise undermined simply because I’m not a medical doctor is disheartening. However, I’ve learned that it’s essential to advocate for myself and to demand the respect I have earned. I have no problem correcting people.
So, to pharmacists entering the workforce, I want to offer some valuable advice:
- Own Your Accomplishments:Be proud of your education, expertise, and the title of “Doctor.” You’ve earned it! Be bold and correct people when they address you incorrectly. You deserve to be acknowledged for your hard work.
- Educate Others:Many people may need help understanding the role of a pharmacist. Take the opportunity to educate your patients, colleagues, and friends about your responsibilities and the importance of your role in healthcare.
- Network and Collaborate:Building relationships with other healthcare professionals can help bridge the gap in understanding and respect. Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to demonstrate your value to the team.
My journey as a pharmacist has been filled with challenges and triumphs. I’ve learned that it’s both acceptable and necessary to demand respect for the degree I’ve worked so hard for.
And this advice doesn’t just apply to pharmacists—it applies to women in all careers and positions. You’ve earned it.
Have you ever had to correct someone about your title or position?
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Sincere accolades to Dr. Reed for her accomplishments and for recognizing her worth. It’s important for women to value themselves in today’s world. I especially appreciate her contribution to the medical community, being a sufferer of a chronic illness almost half of my life. I truly believe Pharmacists do save lives every day with the work that they do. No one wants to depend on medications and therapies to live a healthy life, many of us do. Thank you Dr. Reed for what you do and for the pride and confidence with which you do it. Many Blessings Sis for your future!
I have had to correct folks here in the South who prefer to address me as”Miss. …” rather than, “Rev.” I’m an ordained Elder in the AME Zion Church. I and my father, also “Rev.” have discussed the disparity. The culture of those who choose to dishonor the truth that the risen, Christ, chose a woman to go and to tell His male disciples He had risen as He said, first (and that the disciples didn’t believe her), is still real.
Dr. Alisha Reed, I commend you, celebrate you, and praise YAH for your steadfastness. I am a retired teacher/school counselor in the southwestern part of the USA. I volunteer my school counseling and teaching skills to a small private faith based academy. I want these young people to know that focused strength, goalsetting and perseverance are valuable tools. I intend to share your story with them.
Dr. Reed congratulations and thank you for this article. About two months ago I was diagnosed as a diabetic. The initial phone call was from by doctors nurse but things became very confusing for me when the Pharmacist from his office called and I had to have an appointment with her.
Even after meeting with her and receiving pertinent education I’ve still not been able to connect the dots, so to speak. I can recall having a different phone conversation with her concerning switching my medication and I asked if I needed to make an appointment with my doctor and she said no she would. Now I wonder if I offended her, I surely hope not and certainly didn’t mean any disrespect. I haven’t been down this road before and honestly didn’t know that a pharmacist was on site at my doctors office.
Thankfully I’ve been following what she’s told me even though I’ve still been somewhat confused.
Again, thank you for enlightening me and now I understand why I’m seeing her.
Hello Dr Reed!😊
I worked on a med surf floor we had a phenomenal pharmacist each floor ( or a combination of floors) had a specific pharmacist she was young and boy intelligent She seemed so young, she was petite as well Honestly, I thought all pharmacists were pharmD
Her name was Jill Currin and she worked part-time statue CVS across/near the hospital ( why??) When the obligatory “ would you like a consultation?” Was asked boy did she lay it out I know the unfamiliar customers were astounded but we were used to it ( Weill I was). She said she was leaving to become a booth amplify technician So I guess she is out there somewhere excelling Congratulations on everything I have a soror whose daughter graduated from Xavier and all I thought of was her (studying While her sorors partying)
Martha C C arter
Fayetteville NC
Thank you so much for this message, Dr. Reed! I am pursuing my doctorate (PhD) and I’ve encountered much awkwardness as a Black woman in STEM. As you stated, we’ve earned the title, so I shouldn’t be afraid to speak up when necessary. I am challenging my distorted thoughts that speaking up and correcting others are not stemmed from ego but bravery that I should get what I deserve.