165 Rachel Berry
In this World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) episode, Rachel Berry shares her journey from hospital pharmacist to antimicrobial stewardship specialist. Starting in cystic fibrosis care, she witnessed firsthand the impact of resistant infections. Rachel discusses a powerful patient case of a catheter-associated UTI that proved untreatable due to resistance.
Her passion deepened when her young son was diagnosed with leukemia, highlighting the critical importance of effective antibiotics in modern medicine. Now working at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as a Chief Pharmaceutical Officer's Fellow, Rachel combines her clinical expertise with national policy work. She reflects on balancing career progression with family life, including managing multiple relocations and returning to career focus as her children grow older. The conversation covers the evolution of pharmacy practice, the value of independent prescribing qualifications, and the urgent need to preserve antimicrobial effectiveness for future generations.
Rachel has contributed significantly to guideline development, regional AMR reduction strategies, and healthcare professional education. Her work has earned national recognition through award nominations and wins, with presentations at various conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
5 key takeaway messages:
Antimicrobial resistance is an immediate threat affecting patient outcomes today, not a future concern.
Pharmacy careers can evolve from ward-based roles to national policy influence through continuous development.
Working with chronic conditions provides invaluable experience in managing complex infections and building patient relationships.
National leadership programs like the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer's Fellowship enable pharmacists to shape healthcare policy.
Career advancement can be strategically timed with different life stages without compromising family commitments.
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Donate to antibiotic guardians in Uganda as part of this series for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW)
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