Julie Zhang

Julie Zhang is employed as an informatics resident on rotations at UW Health, where she works on various projects and as clinical staff for neurology, surgery, and central pharmacy. Additionally, she serves as a clinical preceptor and teaching assistant for a graduate-level informatics class at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, sharing her expertise and knowledge with students.

Overview of your Facility/Health System
UW Health is an academic medical center that includes a teaching hospital and ambulatory care centers. It has 215 pharmacists and 244 non-pharmacist staff, with a total of 672 beds. The facility features a Level One trauma center, a burn center, a large organ transplant program, and the UW Carbone Cancer Center. The pharmacy department utilizes advanced technology and manages 14 retail pharmacies along with a specialty pharmacy.

What significant projects have you been involved in recently?
I have been involved in significant projects at UW Health, including the implementation of busulfan pharmacokinetic monitoring in adults undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant during my postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) year. I am now starting a project aimed at enhancing specialty pharmacy services through the implementation of a new care coordination application. This initiative aims to improve patient management and reporting capabilities to fulfill accreditation standards, ultimately standardizing workflow and enhancing patient outcomes. Through these projects, I apply my clinical expertise to advance pharmacy practices and support data analysis initiatives.

What advice would you provide for someone new to your specialty area?
Get involved in projects or rotations that allow you to apply informatics concepts in real-world settings. Hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding how to implement and evaluate informatics solutions effectively.

What is your current involvement with ASHP?
I am actively involved with ASHP through my contributions to the ASHP Section of Pharmacy Informatics and Technology. I am a member of the Clinical Decision Support Section Advisory Group for 2024-25.

Why did you become involved in ASHP?
I became involved in ASHP to stay connected with professionals in the New Practitioner Forum during my first year of residency. I joined as a member of the Clinical Decision Support Section Advisory Group in my second year, aligning with my interests and career goals. I value the opportunities ASHP provides for networking, mentorship, and professional development, which are essential for my growth as a clinician and informatics specialist. This involvement allows me to engage with peers, stay informed about industry trends, and contribute to the advancement of pharmacy practice.

How would you explain the value of ASHP to a friend or colleague?
ASHP offers essential networking opportunities for pharmacists to connect with peers, mentors, and leaders, fostering valuable professional relationships. It provides numerous resources for professional development, including webinars, conferences, and workshops to keep members updated on the latest trends in pharmacy practice. ASHP also hosts specialty groups and forums, allowing members to engage with like-minded professionals in their areas of interest. Overall, participation in ASHP helps pharmacists enhance their careers and contribute to the advancement of the pharmacy profession.

What is the value of ASHP for the profession?
ASHP advocates for pharmacists, representing their interests at state and national levels to shape policies that enhance their role in patient care. It provides continuous professional development through educational resources, ensuring pharmacists stay updated on advancements and best practices. Additionally, ASHP fosters collaboration, promoting networking and the exchange of innovative ideas