Eric Johnson

Eric Johnson is the medication safety manager at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin. He obtained his Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Wisconsin in 2011 and completed his postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residency at Gundersen Health System in 2011-2012.  He then worked as a staff pharmacist at Gundersen Health System for 10 years. His practice areas varied greatly over this time and included general medicine, cardiology, central pharmacy operations, emergency services, and ambulatory pharmacy. Eric transitioned to the role of medication safety manager in 2022. His professional interests include medication safety, formulary management, and change management. He is currently pursuing his MBA. In his free time, Eric enjoys training for marathons and spending time with his wife, Jeni, who is also a pharmacist.

Facility
Gundersen Health System is an integrated health system based in southwest Wisconsin and serves patients in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. The flagship hospital, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center (GLMC), is located in La Crosse, WI. GLMC is a 325-bed community teaching hospital. Gundersen Health System also provides pharmacy services across 12 outpatient pharmacy locations and within an ambulatory pharmacy care clinic. Gundersen is a training site for five PGY1 pharmacy residents. Gundersen Health System is in the process of merging with Bellin Health to become Emplify Health.

Recent Significant Projects
I have helped lead our organization through several recent changes in the medication-use system including the transition from aPTT to anti-Xa monitoring for heparin infusions, the implementation of insulin pens, and the creation of a Pharmacy-to-dose 4-factor PCC for reversal of oral factor Xa inhibitors consult. Each of these projects required collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, risk mitigation, training, and support.

Involvement in ASHP
I became an ASHP member again recently when I transitioned to my role of medication safety manager. I completed the ISMP/ASHP Medication Safety Certificate, and I’ve attended the past two summer/Pharmacy Futures meetings. This is my first year on the Section Advisory Group on Medication Management within SICP.

Why did you become involved in ASHP?
When I transitioned from a staff pharmacist to the medication safety manager in 2022, I was looking for sources of influence to help shape my practice and growth. ASHP was an obvious choice. I’ve been able to attend conferences, network with other safety pharmacists, and complete focused CE.

Advice for Someone New to Specialty Area
I transitioned to medication safety pharmacist after practicing as a generalist for 10 years. I completed the ASHP/ISMP Medication Safety Certificate when I became a medication safety pharmacist, and I would strongly recommend this professional certificate to others. I would suggest becoming familiar with all the resources that ASHP and ISMP have to offer. Finally, I would recommend learning from others who have done it before.

How would you explain the value of ASHP to a friend or colleague?
ASHP helps keep you connected to the broader pharmacy community. It provides networking opportunities, professional development, access to resources, and a sense of community and support. ASHP has helped me be more effective in my role.

What is the value of ASHP for the profession?
ASHP helps bring the pharmacy profession together by supporting the growth, development, and success of its members. ASHP also advocates on behalf of the profession and members.