Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center (EMRMC) is proud to celebrate a significant milestone—15 years of excellence in pharmacy education through its ASHP-accredited PGY1 Pharmacy Residency Program. Since its inception in 2010, the program has awarded PGY1 certificates to 28 residents, each of whom has helped shape the future of pharmacy practice both within Ephraim McDowell Health and beyond.

EMRMC’s residency program participates in the annual ASHP Residency Match, attracting pharmacy graduates from across the country. While many of Ephraim’s residents have come from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, the program has welcomed talent from eight different colleges of pharmacy across seven states. The diversity and dedication of Ephraim’s residents have contributed to a strong, well-rounded program that prepares pharmacists for a variety of advanced practice settings, including oncology, emergency medicine, management, antimicrobial stewardship, transitions of care, and academic roles.

Ephraim McDowell is especially proud that 40% of the residency graduates have chosen to continue their careers at EMRMC—evidence of the strong professional development and sense of community the program fosters. Notably, two alumni have gone on to serve as President of the Kentucky Society of Health System Pharmacists, further underscoring the leadership cultivated through the program.

At this year’s Residency Banquet, several important achievements were celebrated. Dr. Casey Welch, PharmD, MBA, was awarded his PGY1 certificate, Heather Ratliff was recognized with the Preceptor of the Year Award and Matt Acton with the FIRST Technician Award. Dr. Welch will begin a full-time role as a clinical staff pharmacist at EMRMC in July. Two new residents were also welcomed—Cassadi Byrd and Bryant Winters. Both are graduates of the UK College of Pharmacy and are poised to carry on the tradition of excellence.

Residency Program Director Tara Neitzel and System Pharmacy Director Joan Haltom also honored EMRMC pharmacists who have dedicated their time and expertise as residency preceptors with Precepting Excellence Awards.

Five-Year Preceptors: Megan Ballard Curtis, Heather Ratliff, Chelsea Stamper, and Monica Wesley
Ten-Year Preceptors: Mary Covell, Tara Neitzel, and Sarah Vickey
Fifteen-Year Preceptors: Amanda Burton, Michelle Fraley, Angie Hatter, Joan Haltom, Kourtney Shewmaker, Brett Vickey, and Allison Williams

“Their guidance and mentorship of our preceptors are the backbone of our program, and we are deeply grateful for their ongoing commitment,” said Joan Haltom. “As we look back on 15 years of growth, innovation, and success, we also look forward to continuing our mission of producing strong pharmacy clinicians and leaders. The EMRMC PGY1 Pharmacy Residency Program remains a cornerstone of our dedication to excellence in patient care and professional development. Here’s to the next 15 years.”