PAM 2024 Interview with Mallory Kuz

PAM 2024 Interview with Mallory Kuz

During Pharmacy Appreciation Month, we spoke with Mallory Kuz, Pharmacy Assistant at Water St Pharmacy in Simcoe and TRC Pharmacy Brantford, to hear her perspective on how CATC’s integrated pharmacy services help support our patients on their recovery journey.

1. What motivated you to work in specialized pharmacy services for addiction treatment? 

As much as I enjoyed working in a long-term care pharmacy, I was ready for a change in my surroundings. I was looking for an opportunity to work with people who are looking to make a positive change in their life. I thought by working in an addiction environment, I would be able to have an immediate positive outcome in helping others with their health related issues.

2. What’s the best part of your job?

Working at the Simcoe location, I have been able to develop a skill set that I did not have the opportunity to achieve in the past. I welcomed the challenge of taking on new responsibilities and feel successful in my ability to execute what I have learned.

3. Why are integrated pharmacy services so important for patients with opioid use disorder?

Integrated services give us the ability to not only give and get feedback from the patient at the time of dosing, but it also allows us quick follow up with the physicians at the time of delivering service. The pharmacy, clinic/physician and patient are working in unison for a positive outcome.

4. What makes our patients unique, and how do you meet their needs in your daily work?

Our service is unique because we have the luxury of seeing our patients on a daily basis during the critical stage of their treatment. During this time we can clinically diagnose the patient and provide advice to them or pass along information to their physician as needed. I do this in an informal and friendly manner while having regular conversations with our patients.

5. If you had one message for people considering starting treatment for opioid use disorder, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Healthcare is free and so are most forms of treatment. You have nothing to loose by asking for help.