Martha J. Roberts

Martha's Story

Dr. Roberts received her BS degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1981 and then returned to receive her Pharm.D. degree in 1999. Her interest in Critical Care result in her being named to the Society of Critical Care's Pain, Agitation, and Delirium Task Force that was tasked in the roll out and education of the update guidelines that were released in 2013. As part of the committee, she also participated in the preparation of an initial education session held at Vanderbilt University. Dr. Roberts did obtain her BCCCP certification during its initial offering in 2015.

Dr. Roberts is involved with the House of Delegates as the current Standing Alternate delegate for Rhode Island. In addition, Dr. Roberts has also returned to the SAG for Emerging Sciences. She was previously on the SAG from 2013 to 2015 and then the Network Facilitator from 2015 to 2017.

Overview of Facility/Health System

Kent Hospital is a community teaching hospital and part of the Care New England system in Rhode Island. The Care New England system also consists of Women and Infants Hospital, Pawtucket Memorial Hospital, Butler Hospital, and the Providence Center.

Significant Projects

Since Dr. Roberts recently joined the Kent Pharmacy Department, her participation in projects has been one of assistance to date. Dr. Roberts was a resource for PGY-1 residents to update the hospital's policy for Pain, Agitation, and Delirium in the ICU and renal dosing by pharmacists.

Initial Involvement in ASHP

“I became more involved in ASHP after attending my initial House of Delegates meeting when I was the President of the Rhode Island Society of Health System Pharmacists. That experience helped to realize and see how the state Society intersected with the national Society as well how that participation at the national level helped to drive the future of pharmacy practice."

Advice for Someone New to Your Specialty Area

“I suggest that pharmacists interested in Critical Care participate in regional and national organizations. Doing so provides a great network for staying abreast of the latest developments and resources for managing patients."

Value of ASHP

“ASHP helps to represent, speak for, and drive legislation that reflects the needs, desires, and concerns of those members of the pharmacy practitioners in health care systems. ASHP also provides various educational options for pharmacists and technicians to maintain and improve their skills and knowledge.”