United Hospital’s pharmacy department is proud of its history developing proficient, independent general practitioners capable of practicing at the top of their licenses. Residency training has been a department priority since 1977. We provide a friendly, collaborative and diverse atmosphere in which our residents can discover and grow their pharmacy skills. As a result of this training, most of our residents go on to match in PGY2 programs, achieve specialized board certifications, or take clinical or management level positions.
United Hospital’s overall program goals include:
• Development of comprehensive, patient-centered pharmaceutical care skills
• Fostering collaboration with other health care providers to achieve positive patient outcomes
• Expansion of critical thinking, communication and leadership skills
• Cultivation of self-evaluation and self-learning skills
• Appreciation of the inter-relationship of clinical, technology and distribution systems to provide effective and safe pharmacy services
• Honing advanced leadership and management skills in all aspects of health system pharmacy (PGY2)
The department is comprised of over 50 pharmacists, most of whom have completed residency or fellowship training and maintain specialized board certifications. Clinical work is supported by over 30 pharmacy technicians and administrative support staff. Up to 18 pharmacy student interns contribute to the success of our department. The pharmacy leadership team is comprised of one pharmacy director, two clinical pharmacy managers, and one pharmacy operations manager. Pharmacy leaders and staff are actively engaged in both site and system committees, as well as local and national professional organizations.
Inpatient pharmacy is open 24/7 and has 16 hours of dedicated decentralized clinical coverage each day. The department operates 2 satellite pharmacies to support a robust surgery program and the Allina Health Cancer Institute. Clinical pharmacy services are complemented by an automated dispensing cabinet system (Omnicell); an Epic electronic medical record; and safety enhancements including medication carousel technology and bedside barcoding.
Additionally, our department prides itself on being representative of the communities we serve. Many of our staff have close ties to St Paul and the surrounding area. We have a noteworthy history of career development, with most of our pharmacists being former technicians, interns or residents at United.
United Hospital is a 546-bed acute care regional medical center. It is the largest hospital in the Twin Cities east metro area, located in downtown St. Paul, Minnesota. United provides a full range of health care and is recognized nationally and locally for its expertise and care. United Hospital consistently rates as high performing in the following specialties: colon and lung cancer surgery, heart attack and heart failure, diabetes, maternity care, kidney failure, hip and knee replacements, stroke and pneumonia.
United Hospital is committed to building a racially equitable and inclusive workplace that is reflective of the communities we serve. The purpose of our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI&B) efforts are to improve the health of all people in our communities by leveraging the strength of United Hospital, as part of Allina Health, as a care provider, employer, purchaser and community partner to eliminate systemic inequities and racism. After participating in the first Racial Equity Dividends Index Report in the spring of 2022, Allina Health received high marks in five categories: culture, retention and advancement; procurement; products and services; philanthropy and investment; and public policy.