Meet Jared Kavanaugh, class of 2017 WSU PharmD alumnus whose pharmacy career broke all the usual molds. While most people imagine pharmacists behind a counter, Kavanaugh’s journey with the United States Public Health Service proves there’s so much more. From tackling health crises to serving communities that need it most, his story shines a light on the unexpected—and powerful—paths a pharmacy degree can open.
Why I chose to pursue pharmacy as my major…
I chose pharmacy because I loved science and was interested in helping people.
My USPHS job assignments…
I started my career as a clinical staff pharmacist with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), working with medical providers in an ambulatory care clinic first as a staff pharmacist then as the chief pharmacist. At these facilities, we provide care including collaborative practice agreements for anticoagulation, diabetes management, hypertension, and HIV management. Now I work for HRSA as a public health analyst on the National Health Service Corps program, certifying sites that provide medical care for underserved and rural populations.
Why I chose USPHS as a career…
The USPHS allows pharmacists to practice to the full extent of their license. I was able to learn clinical skills from my peers and practice collaboratively with medical providers and other pharmacists right out of school. USPHS has a mission to help underserved populations within the US, and having the opportunity to serve my country has been greatly fulfilling. It also provides competitive salary with Uniformed Services benefits (including retirement pay and 401k matching) and the opportunity to be deployed to help with medical crises and natural disasters around the US. All these factors have made the USPHS a great choice for me.
My most rewarding pharmacy experience…
The most rewarding pharmacy experience has been providing care for those who have limited access to healthcare. These patients are grateful for our help and you can see the impact you make in their lives. This is something you don’t necessarily see in all pharmacy settings.
How my expectations of a career in pharmacy changed since being a student…
Since being a student, my career has presented many challenges and successes that I did not expect. Most of us thought of the pharmacy profession as the community and hospital sector, with few other opportunities. USPHS has shown me that I can work as a pharmacist in the clinical setting, public health, or in administrative roles for federal agencies – not only in HRSA and BOP, but also in Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Indian Health Service, and many more I was unaware of.