Jay Christenson

Dr. Christenson received his PharmD from the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy in 2011 after previously graduating from the University of St. Thomas with a degree in Chemistry. After pharmacy school, he completed a health-system pharmacy administration residency at The University of Kansas Hospital and earned an MS from the University of Kansas. Dr. Christenson lives in Bloomington, Minnesota with his wife Sara and enjoys spending time traveling, being outdoors (skiing, hiking, etc) and enjoying great food and wine. He is currently Clinical Solutions Director in the Medication Management Solutions division at BD, leading a team of pharmacists and nurses who support BD solutions in medication management for national health-system customers.

Overview of Facility/Health System
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company supports the heroes on the frontlines of healthcare by developing innovative technology, services and solutions that help advance both clinical therapy for patients and clinical processes for healthcare providers.

Significant Projects
Dr. Christenson's favorite part of his role is connecting with colleagues and customers across the country to discuss new technology, identify opportunities for operational and financial improvement, and improve patient care.

Current Involvement in ASHP
Dr. Christenson is currently the Chair for the Education and Professional Development section advisory group within the Section of Pharmacy Informatics and Technology.

Why did you become involved in ASHP?
Dr. Christenson started his involvement with ASHP while attending the University of Minnesota and participating in student leadership organizations.  He learned the importance of being involved in professional organizations from mentors in pharmacy school and during his residency. His first advisory group role was on the New Practitioners Forum – Advisory Group on Professional Practice.  Jay has also been involved with the Section of Pharmacy Practice Leaders.

Advice for Someone New to Your Specialty Area
I would advise all new pharmacists to continue to develop professional relationships and expand their network. Many of those may evolve into personal lifelong friendships. In my role I connect with many different pharmacy and healthcare leaders across the country, and it never ceases to amaze me how "small" the world of pharmacy is. I would also recommend new pharmacists be open to new experiences.  I would not have believed someone if they told me at the beginning of my career I would be leading nurses and pharmacists at a major medical technology company in the sales and account management space.

How would you explain the value of ASHP to a friend or colleague?
ASHP provides a valuable forum for networking, learning about new and best practices, and sharing ideas. ASHP helps to "push the practice" forward and advocate for pharmacists. The relationships I have built from being involved and attending meetings are invaluable.

What is the value of ASHP for the profession?
ASHP is a go-to resource for clinical and operational knowledge, best practices, and networking.  As pharmacy professionals, we have a responsibility to advocate for our patients and the profession.  ASHP supports these activities and helps to drive the profession forward.