In this podcast, Melissa Ortega and Maria Carias will discuss Melissa’s journey as a pharmacist of Latin heritage. Melissa will share her family’s Puerto Rican history, how she came to a career in pharmacy, and how being a Latina has enhanced her abilities as a pharmacist, leader, and mentor.
SPEAKERS
Melissa Ortega, Pharm.D., M.S, Tufts Medical Center and Floating Hospital for Children Boston, Massachusetts Education: Doctor of Pharmacy at Nova Southeastern University, 2010; ASHP Accredited PGY-1 & PGY-2 Residency Program Pharmacy Practice & Health-System Pharmacy Administration, University of Wisconsin Hospital, and Clinics, 2012; Masters of Science, Health-System Pharmacy Administration, University of Wisconsin, 2012. Current Position: Pharmacy Director, Outpatient Pharmacy Services Melissa Ortega, Pharm.D., M.S., is Director, Outpatient Pharmacy Services at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. She leads clinical and operational services across ambulatory clinics, and three outpatient pharmacies including a Specialty Pharmacy service center. Melissa has established comprehensive medication management in over 10 specialties for adult and pediatric patients. Recently, Tufts Medical Center achieved URAC Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation. Melissa received her doctorate of pharmacy degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Fl., and completed her pharmacy practice and health-system pharmacy administration residencies at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. Melissa served as President of the Massachusetts Society of Health-System Pharmacists and is an active advisory group member in the ASHP Section for Specialty Pharmacy Practitioners.
Maria F. Carias, M.B.A., M.S., is the Director of Member Operations within the ASHP Office of Member Relations. In this role, Ms. Carias coordinates the operational logistics for various ASHP initiatives. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Policy from American University and both her Master’s of Science in Project Management and Master’s of Business Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Ms. Carias was recognized as a 2020 recipient of the ASHP CEO Award for Staff Excellence.
