Personnel
- Sandra S. Axtell, PharmD, BCPS
- Kelsey Fink, PharmD, BCPS
- Michael A. Jakubecz, MBA, BS Pharmacy
- Julia E. Kuroski, PharmD, BCCCP
- Nicholas A. Link, PharmD, BCOP
- Kim Migal, PharmD, BCPS
- Matthew Nagar, PharmD, BCPS
- Melissa M. Raich, PharmD, BCPS
- Carolyn M. Richardson, PharmD, BCPS
- Frank S. Rigelsky, PharmD, BCPS
- Mary E. Temple, MS, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP
- Jeffrey S. Weil, RPh, MBA
- Nathan P. Wirick, PharmD, BCPS
Current Residents
Mike Friebe, PharmD
PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Resident
Education: THE Ohio State University College of Pharmacy
Post-residency Goals: Pursue a PGY-2
Biographical Sketch
I am originally from Minnesota and decided to come to Ohio for Pharmacy School. My current interests change frequently, but include Infectious Disease, Emergency Medicine, Informatics, and potentially Administration. I have plans of obtaining a PGY2 pharmacy residency in one of these specialties. Away from work I spend much of my time with my wife, Mariam, and pup, Marley. I love being active, whatever that means, especially if it means being outside, all year round. I also love watching Borussia Dortmund play.
Bianca Mayzel
PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Resident
Education: The University of Toledo
Post-residency goals: Pursue a PGY-2 in Ambulatory Care
Biographical Sketch
I was born at Hillcrest hospital and have been in Cleveland (almost) my entire life. I graduated from the University of Toledo where I served as co-chair for pharmacy relations at our local free medical clinic. I plan to pursue a PGY-2 in ambulatory care. Outside of pharmacy, I read a plethora of books, cook and bake and spend time with my family and friends.
Past Residents
G. Elliott Cook , PharmD, BCPS
Pharmacist
Provider Resources, Inc.
Assistant Professor, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Pharmacy - 2007-2011
Phone: 814.860.5113
Email: ecook@lecom.edu
Biographical Sketch
Elliott received a Pharm.D. from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Pharmacy and completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Residency at Hillcrest Hospital – a Cleveland Clinic Hospital. Currently, Elliott is the Chief Pharmacist at Provider Resources, Inc. (PRI) where he provides support and oversight to two national contracts for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).Through these contracts, Elliott and his colleagues at PRI generate savings for the Medicare Trust Fund through the Medicare Secondary Payer Program and the Medicare Part D Benefit. Additionally, Elliott constructs technical, business, and drug policy solutions for PRI and the federal government on multiple levels. Elliott has prior experience in hospital pharmacy, academics, and drug information. He has publications in major medical and pharmacy journals and has given presentations at both local and national pharmacy meetings. Elliott is board certified in Pharmacotherapy by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties and is licensed to practice pharmacy in both Pennsylvania and Ohio. Elliott is also a member of several professional pharmacy organizations and is currently the Northwest Regional Director for the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association (PPA) which includes 14 counties. He currently sits on PPA’s board which is considered the leading voice for pharmacy within the Commonwealth.
Education
- Georgetown University, Masters of Science – Clinical and Translational Research – Regulatory Science Concentration, 2014-2016
- Hillcrest Hospital PGY1 Pharmacy Residency, Mayfield Heights, OH.
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Pharmacy, Erie, PA
- Doctor of Pharmacy
- Pennsylvania State University at Erie, The Behrend College, Erie PA.
- Pre-Pharmacy Coursework
Honors and Awards
- 2016-2017, Georgetown Center of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation Scholar ($5,000)
Publications
- In press: Madden MM, Cook GE. Dietary supplementation in children and adolescents: supplementing with the ‘correct’ amount. JAMA Pediatr 2013.
- Cook GE, Madden MM. The significance of information posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website. J Manag Care Pharm 2013;19(1):72-3.
- Cook GE, Powers AL. In reply: Potential safety signals and their significance. Arch Intern Med 2012;172(9):747-8.
- Powers AL, Cook GE. Potential safety signals and their significance. Arch Intern Med 2012;172(1):72-73.
- Cook GE. Missing published and unpublished data in guidelines. BMJ 2010; 340:c1337.
- Cook GE, Sukkari SR, Sasich LD. An additional source of bias in antidepressant and other trials. Pharmacotherapy 2010; 30(3):117e-8e.
- Cook GE, Sasich LD, Sukkari SR. FDA drug information that never reaches clinicians. N Engl J Med 2010; 11(6):561-3.
- Cook GE, Sasich LD, Sukkari SR. DIONYSOS study comparing dronedarone with amiodarone. BMJ 2010; 240:c285.
- Sasich LD, Sukkari SR, Cook GE, Tuttle DA. The importance of FDA approval packages and briefing documents in pharmacy education. Am J Pharm Educ 2009; 73(7) Article 126.
- Kahaleh A, Cook GE. Pharmacy students providing patient medication discharge counseling in Pennsylvania. US Pharm 2009; 34(8):49-57.
- Minor PD, Cook GE. Student pharmacists: don’t forget the product labeling. J Am Pharm Assoc 2008 Nov-Dec; 48(6):696,700.
Poster Presentations
- In press - Cook GE, Fernandez SJ, Wilhelm EE, Stoto MA. The Impact of FDA Drug Safety Communications on Zolpidem Prescribing in a Large Health System. Academy Health’s Concordium 2016. September 2016.
- Cook GE, Fernandez SJ, Wilhelm EE. Measuring the Impact of FDA Communication Alerts and Re-Alerts – The Citalopram Pilot. Academy Health’s Concordium 2015. September 2015.
Invited Lectures
- Measuring the Impact of FDA Communication Alerts and Re-Alerts – The Citalopram Pilot. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. White Oak Campus. 2/16/2016.
Matthew Delisle, PharmD
PGY-2 Pharmacy Informatics Resident
Cleveland Clinic
9500 Euclid Ave.
Cleveland, OH
Email: delislm@ccf.org
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Delisle graduated from The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy program in 2016, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2017 and is currently completing a PGY-2 specialty residency in Pharmacy informatics at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus. He enjoys watching and playing sports, going to restaurants, cooking, watching movies and spending time with my family.
Kelsey Fink, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Specialist, Neonatology
Hillcrest Hospital
6780 Mayfield Rd.
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Phone: 440.312.3360
Email: finkk2@ccf.org
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Fink graduated from Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy program in 2015, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2016 and a PGY-2 specialty residency in Pediatrics from Nationwide Children’s in 2017. She earned the Board Certification in Pharmacotherapy in 2016. She is currently licensed to practice pharmacy by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. Her current practice site is Cleveland Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital where she is the Clinical Pharmacy Specialist in Neonatology.
Education
Undergrad/Pharmacy School: Ohio Northern University Raabe College of Pharmacy
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident 2014-2015, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
Post-Residency Goals
Work as a pediatric clinical specialist and be involved in teaching and precepting students and residents.
Kristen Funelli, CNMT, RT(N)(MR), PharmD, BCPS
Pharmacist
Medina Hospital
Phone: 330.721.5152
Fax: 330.721.5495
Email: funellk@ccf.org
Education
- PGY-1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2015, Hillcrest Hospital
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2014, Northeast Ohio Medical University
- Bachelor’s of Radiologic Imaging Sciences 2006, Kent State University
- Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration 2003, Youngstown State University
Areas of Interest
- Emergency Medicine
- Geriatrics
Research/Current Projects
- Orthopedic Surgery Medication Reconciliation
Service
- Member of Cleveland Clinic Enterprise Medication Safety Falls Sub-committee
- Member of the Ohio Society of Health System Pharmacists
- Member of the Akron-Area Society of Health System Pharmacists
- Member of the American College of Clinical Pharmacists
- Member of the Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International
- Preceptor for PharmD candidates
Poster Presentations
- Does dexmedetomidine use decrease benzodiazepine requirements in patients undergoing EtOH withdrawal? With Melissa Lagzdins, PharmD, BCPS. Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2015.
- Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of sitagliptin therapy in hospitalized patients in a community-teaching hospital. With Sandra Axtell, PharmD, BCPS. American Society of Health System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting and University HealthSystem Consortium Annual Meeting, December 2014.
Lecture Presentations
- Does dexmedetomidine use decrease benzodiazepine requirements in patients undergoing EtOH withdrawal? Ohio Pharmacy Residency Conference, May 2015
- ACC/AHA Lipid Guidelines: A Brief Overview, Hillcrest Hospital Physician Group Presentation, May 2015
- Endocarditis, Hillcrest Hospital Resident Presentation, March 2015
- Beta-Lactams: A Class Review, Hillcrest Hospital Resident Presentation , March 2015
- Anticoagulant treatment options in atrial fibrillation, Hillcrest Hospital Resident Presentation January 2015
- Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy after Drug-Eluting Stents, Hillcrest Hospital Resident Journal Club Presentation , January 2015
- Does dexmedetomidine use decrease benzodiazepine requirements in patients undergoing EtOH withdrawal? Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Fall Pharmacotherapy Update, November 2014
- Oral paracetamol vs. oral ibuprofen in patent ductus arteriosus, Hillcrest Hospital Resident Journal Club Presentation , September 2014
Melissa Herschman, PharmD, BCPS
Pharmacist
South Pointe Hospital
Phone: 216.491.7165
Fax: 216.491.7073
Email: herschm@ccf.org
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Herschman graduated from The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy program in 2014, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2015 and she earned the Board Certification in Pharmacotherapy in 2015. She is currently licensed to practice pharmacy by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. Her current practice site is Cleveland Clinic, South Pointe Hospital where she is a staff pharmacist.
Education
- Pharmacy Practice Residency 2015, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, Ohio
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2014, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Areas of interest
- Internal medicine
- Critical Care
- Ambulatory Care
Research/Current Projects
- A pilot study comparing hospital readmission rates in patients that received rivaroxaban versus enoxaparin following orthopedic surgery
- Monitoring medication reconciliation to assess outcomes and areas of improvement
- Primary preceptor for the CCF pharmacy technician training program at South Pointe hospital
Service
- ICU liaison for South Pointe Hospital
- Member of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
- Member of the Cleveland Society of Health-System Pharmacists
- Member of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Teaching
- Preceptor for PharmD students
- Preceptor in training for PGY1 pharmacy residents at South Pointe hospital
- Lecture for medical residents in the Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine South Pointe campus
Publications
- McCrate A, Carlone M, Nielsen M, Swavey S. Anaerobic photocleavage of supercoiled DNA by a ruthenium(II) substituted fluorinated porphyrin. Inorg Chem Comm. 2010 Apr:13(4):537-9.
- Does metformin require discontinuation prior to administration of all types of contrast media? OCCP Newsletter. Spring 2015.
- What patient population should receive aspirin for VTE prophylaxis after orthopedic surgery? OSHP Bulletin. September 2015.
Poster Presentations
- Evaluation of bivalirudin during percutaneous coronary intervention before and after a process change. ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, Anaheim, CA and UHC, Anaheim, CA. December 2014.
Lecture Presentations
- Management of advanced Parkinson’s disease. Hillcrest Hospital. March 2015.
- Withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids and exacerbations of COPD. Hillcrest Hospital. March 2015.
- Antibiotics and QT prolongation. Hillcrest Hospital. January 2015.
- Evaluation of intravenous peramavir for treatment of influenza in hospitalized patients. Hillcrest Hospital. January 2015.
- Evaluation of bivalirudin during percutaneous coronary intervention before and after a process change. Hillcrest Hospital. December 2014.
- A pilot study comparing hospital readmission rates in patients that received rivaroxaban versus enoxaparin following orthopedic surgery. OCCP Fall Clinical Meeting, Cleveland, OH. November 2014.
- Nab-paclitaxel versus sb-paclitaxel with carboplatin in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer. Hillcrest Hospital. November 2014.
- Use of biologics in rheumatoid arthritis. Hillcrest Hospital. October 2014.
- Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia in HIV. Hillcrest Hospital. September 2014.
- Proton pump inhibitors and clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. Hillcrest Hospital. September 2014.
- Rivaroxaban and enoxaparin after orthopedic surgery. Hillcrest Hospital. August 2014.
- A review of hyponatremia: a case presentation. Louis Stokes Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. October 2013.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a case presentation. Cleveland Clinic-Main Campus. August 2013.
- A review of anemia: a case presentation. Euclid Hospital. July 2013.
- Vancomycin medication use evaluation. Euclid Hospital. July 2013.
Ashleigh Hogue, PharmD, BCCCP
Unit Based Clinical Pharmacist
Surgical Trauma Intensive Care Unit
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian Hospital
Department of Pharmacy
200 Lothrop Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Email: hoguean2@upmc.edu
Biographical Sketch
Ashleigh is currently a Unit Based Clinical Pharmacist in the Surgical Trauma ICU at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Presbyterian Hospital. Upon completion of her training, she initially held the ICU Float Unit Based Clinical Pharmacist position at UPMC Presbyterian. She completed her Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Pittsburgh, her PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at Hillcrest Hospital, and her PGY2 Critical Care Pharmacy Residency at UPMC Presbyterian.
Education
- PGY2 Critical Care Pharmacy Residency 2014, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
- PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2013, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2012, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA
Research/Quality Improvement Projects
- Effects of In-Utero Exposure to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors on Neonatal Outcomes
- Patient Reported Outcomes of Sedation in the Critically Ill
- Evaluation of tromethamine (THAM) for metabolic acidosis in critically ill patients
- Evaluation of enoxaparin for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in obese surgical/trauma patients
Service
- Member of the Society of Critical Care Medicine
Teaching
- Preceptor for PharmD students
Honors and Awards
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Resident of Excellence in Education Award, 2014
Poster Presentations
- Effects of In-Utero Exposure to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Venlafaxine on Neonatal Outcomes. Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2013
- Medication Use Evaluation of Dabigatran. ASHP 47th Midyear Clinical Meeting and Exhibition, December 2012
Lecture Presentations
- Appropriate Use of Kcentra. UPMC Presbyterian, May 2014
- Pharmacologic Interventions for Patients with Non-Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage. UPMC Shadyside, April 2014
- Status Epilepticus. University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, March 2014
- Acute Care Pharmacotherapy Simulation Elective. University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, January-April 2014
- Pharmacotherapy of Cardiovascular Disease. University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, October-November 2013
- Asthma Therapeutics. University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, September 2013
- Increased Chance of “Surviving Sepsis” with New Guideline Recommendations? – Focus on Vasopressor Therapy. UPMC Presbyterian, August 2013
- Effects of In-Utero Exposure to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Venlafaxine on Neonatal Outcomes. Great Lakes Pharmacy Resident Conference, April 2013
- Hypertensive Crisis. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, May 2013
- Hemodynamics and Vasopressors. Cleveland Clinic Nursing Education, Critical Care Nursing Course, October 2012
Colton Hutton, PharmD
Lake Erie College of Pharmacy
Erie, PA
Thomas Johnston, PharmD
Education: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Eshelman School of Pharmacy
Post-residency Goals: Pursue a PGY-2 in Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Biographical Sketch
I graduated from pharmacy school at the University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy and I served as the vice-president for the class of 2017. I intend to complete a PGY-2 residency in infectious disease or oncology. Outside of pharmacy I enjoy playing soccer, running, hiking with my dog, and exploring new restaurants.
Matthew Kolenda, PharmD
Staff Pharmacist, Hillcrest Hospital
Education: The University of Findley
Biographical Sketch
I am a native Clevelander and graduated from The University of Findlay College of Pharmacy in northwestern Ohio. My current interests include emergency medicine, administration, and critical care with plans of obtaining a PGY2 pharmacy residency in one of these specialties. Outside of pharmacy, I enjoy staying active by working out, running, and playing sports especially volleyball. I love exploring new restaurants, and frequently attend sporting events for all of our Cleveland sports teams; go Cavs/Indians/Browns!
Megan L. Menon, PharmD, BCOP
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Lymphoma/Multiple Myeloma Service
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Elm and Carlton Streets
Buffalo, NY 14263
Phone: 716.845.4045
Email: Megan.Menon@RoswellPark.org
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Menon graduated from Duquesne University’s College of Pharmacy program in 2009, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency in 2010, a PGY-2 specialty residency in oncology in 2011, and received Board Certification in Oncology Pharmacy in 2013. She is currently licensed to practice pharmacy by the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy and the New York State Board of Pharmacy. Her current practice site is Roswell Park Cancer Institute where she is the pharmacy specialist in Lymphoma/Multiple Myeloma. She also is the Residency Program Director for the PGY2 Oncology Residency.
Education
- PGY-2 Oncology Pharmacy Residency 2011, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
- PGY‐1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2010, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2009, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA
Teaching
- Guest lecturer for D’Youville College of Pharmacy – Lymphoma and Multiple Myeloma
Presentations
- Keynote Speaker for Roswell Park Pharmacy Oncology Symposium November 2015
- Topic: Multiple Myeloma: Expanding the Use of New Therapies
Kimberly Migal, PharmD, BCPS
Staff Pharmacist
Hillcrest Hospital
6780 Mayfield Rd.
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Migal graduated from Northeast Ohio Medical University College of Pharmacy program in 2015, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2016 and she earned the Board Certification in Pharmacotherapy in 2016. She is currently licensed to practice pharmacy by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. Her current practice site is Cleveland Clinic, Hillcrest Hospital where she is a staff pharmacist.
Education
Northeast Ohio Medical University
PGY1 Pharmacy Resident 2014-2015, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
Post-residency goals
Pursue a PGY-2 or obtain a position involving direct patient care.
Matthew Nagar, PharmD, BCPS
Staff Pharmacist, Emergency Department
Department of Pharmacy
Hillcrest Hospital
Mayfield Heights, Ohio
Phone: 440.312.3360
Email: nagarm@ccf.org
Pager: #51088
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Nagar graduated from Wilkes University School of Pharmacy in 2011, a general pharmacy practice residency in 2012, and has been a Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist since 2013. He is currently licensed to practice pharmacy by the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy. Currently, Dr. Nagar is the Emergency Room Pharmacist at Hillcrest Hospital, a Cleveland Clinic hospital. He is a member of various committees including Trauma Services and Medication Reconciliation at Hillcrest and several professional pharmacy organizations.
Education
- Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, October 2012
- PGY‐1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2011, Hillcrest Hospital, a Cleveland Clinic hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2011, Wilkes University School of Pharmacy, Wilkes‐Barre, PA
Areas of Interest
- Trauma
- Infectious disease
- Management of hemodynamics
- Toxicology
Poster Presentations
- Evaluation of Dexmedetomidine Usage in a 500 – Bed Tertiary Care Medical Facility. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting. December 2011.
Lecture Presentations
- Agents of Toxicity in the Emergency Department. Trauma Lecture Series. June 2014.
- Nausea and Vomiting: A Review of Guidelines and Recommendations. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series. November 2013.
- Anticoagulants: Management of Bleeding in the Setting of Trauma. Trauma Lecture Series. November 2013.
- Rapid Sequence Intubation & Management of Unknown Overdose. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series. June 2013.
- Major Depressive Disorder: A Focus on Treatment Recommendations. Cleveland Clinic Health System Regional Continuing Education Meeting. May 2012.
Pamela Ong, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist – Surgical Medicine
Marymount Hospital
Garfield Heights, Ohio
Phone: 216.587.8124
Email: ongp@ccf.org
Education
- Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, 2011
- PGY‐1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2011, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2010, LECOM School of Pharmacy, Erie, PA
Past Experience
- Staff pharmacist at Hillcrest Hospital in the Emergency Department
- Pharmacy intern at CVS/Pharmacy
Research/Current Projects
- Medication counseling for hospital quality measures and anticoagulation
- Medication reconciliation for orthopedic surgical patients
- Research preceptor for comprehensive medication reviews in the emergency department
- REMS coordinator for TIRF medications
- Daily rounding on all medical-surgical patients
- Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Use in a Community Hospital
- Appropriate Prophylactic Antibiotic Discontinuation Post-Surgery
Service
- Residency Advisory Committee Member
- Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee Member
- Marymount Hospital Representative for the Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy Clinical Integration Committee
- Preceptor for residents and intermediate/advanced practice pharmacy students
- Member of various local and national organizations
Amy Pasternak, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Translational Pharmaceutical Sciences Post-Doctoral Fellow
University of Michigan Medical Center
Education
- PGY2 Clinical Pharmacogenetics Pharmacy Resident 2015-2016, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Teaching and Learning Program 2015-2016, University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN
- PGY1 Pharmacy Resident 2014-2015, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2014, Ohio Nothern University, Ada, OH
Areas of Interest
- Clinical Pharmacogenetics
- Oncology
Poster Presentations
- Pasternak A, Hadair CE, Kornegay N, Cross SJ, Gregornik D, Molinelli A, Hoffman JM, Triplett BM, Relling MV, Crews KR. Impact of initial intravenous tacrolimus dosage on the first tacrolimus concentration in a pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant population. ASHP Midyear Meeting. December 2015.
- Pasternak A, Link NA, Wirick N. Evaluation of a novel dosing strategy for Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIG) in hospitalized patients in a community hospital. University Health System Consortium Pharmacy Council Meeting. December 2014.
- Pasternak A, Link NA, Richardson C, Rose PG. An interim analysis of prophylactic conversion to extended-infusion carboplatin effect on the development of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with gynecologic malignancies. ASHP Midyear Meeting. December 2014.
Publications
- Pasternak AL, Link NA, Richardson C, Rose PG. Effect of Prophylactic Extended-Infusion Carboplatin on Incidence of Hypersensitivity Reactions in Patients with Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, or Peritoneal Carcinomas. Pharmacotherapy. 2016; 36(7): 723-30.
- Pasternak A, Axtell S. What is the risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM) while taking a statin? OSHP Bulletin. 2014; 36(6): 4-5.
- Ginty SE, Pasternak A, Desko L, Amero J, Kisor D. Pharmacogenomic Implications Regarding Second Generation Antipsychotics Clozapine and Risperidone. Pharmacy and Wellness (PAW) Review. 2012 Jan; 3(1): 35-8.
- Long L, Pasternak A, Hazlet E, Kisor D. The Impact of Pharmacogenomics on Chemotherapeutic Drug Development and Use. PAW Review. 2012, July: 3(3): 70-3.
Honors and Awards
- Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Presentation Style Award, 2014
- Cleveland Clinic APPE Student Award, 2014
Lecture Presentations
- Clinical Pharmacogenetics at St. Jude, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Nursing Affiliate Conference, 2015
- CYP3A5 and Tacrolimus, Bone Marrow Transplant Clinical Meeting, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 2015
- An evaluation of the impact of UGT1A1*60 variant on bilirubin levels, Clinical Pharmacists Meeting, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 2015
- Pharmacogenomics of CYP2D6 and tamoxifen, Cleveland Clinic, 2015
- Prophylactic extended infusion carboplatin effect on development of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with gynecologic malignancies, Ohio Pharmacy Residency Conference, 2015
- Pregnancy and Diabetes, NICU pharmacists training course, Hillcrest Hospital, 2015
- Update on novel type II diabetes therapies, Hillcrest family medicine physicians, Hillcrest Hospital, 2015
- Prophylactic conversion to extended-infusion carboplatin effect on the development of hypersensitivity reactions in patients with gynecologic malignancies, Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Fall Meeting, 2014
Melissa M. Raich, PharmD, BCPS
Critical Care Clinical Specialist
Hillcrest Hospital
Phone: 440.312.2266
Fax: 440.312.7104
Email: raichm@ccf.org
Pager: #51291
Clinical Specialist at Hillcrest since: 2010
Education
- Critical Care Specialty Residency 2010, Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio
- Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, October 2009
- Pharmacy Practice Residency 2009, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, Ohio
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2008, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH
Areas of interest
- Infectious diseases in the intensive care unit
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Parenteral nutrition in the critically ill
Research/Current Projects
- Clinical rounding in the Medical/Surgical Intensive Care Units
- Clinical rounding with the Trauma/Acute Surgical Care team
- Management of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy Protocol
- Smart Pump drug library maintenance
Service
- Residency Advisory Committee: Recruitment and Interviewing Subcommittee Chair
- Member of Hillcrest Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee
- Member of ICU Performance Improvement Committee
- Member of the Code Blue sub-committee
- Member of the ICU Leadership Committee
- Member of the Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacists
Teaching
- Preceptor for PharmD students
- Preceptor for PGY1 residents at Hillcrest Hospital
- Provider of local continuing education for nurses, pharmacists and physicians
Honors and Awards
- Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy Residency Program Regional Preceptor of the Year, June 2015.
- Appreciation Award for Teamwork, Leadership Council, Hillcrest Hospital, March 2014.
- Employee of the Month, Hillcrest Hospital Dept of Pharmacy, February 2012.
- 10th Annual Mercy Health Partners Research Symposium Excellence Award for Poster Presentation, May 2010.
- Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Fall Research Meeting Presentation Award, Oct 2008.
Publications
- Temple ME, Lagzdins ML. Streamlining the residency interview process using web-based teleconferencing. Am. J. Health Syst. Pharm. 2014;71:697-701.
- Huebner M, Temple-Cooper M, Lagzdins M, Yeh J. A pilot study evaluating the effect of daily education by a pharmacist on medication related HCAHPS scores and medication reconciliation. J Biosafety Health Educ. 2013;1:1-6.
- Antiretroviral Medications. Melissa M. Lagzdins, Pharm.D., BCPS. Chapter contribution for Antimicrobianos: uso terapeutico en infectologia clinica by Luis Jauregui, Jr., M.D. 2013.
- Hulisz D, Lagzdins M. Drug induced hypertension. U.S. Pharmacists. 2008;33(9):1-6.
Poster Presentations
- Does dexmedetomidine use decrease benzodiazepine requirements in patients undergoing alcohol withdrawal? With Kristen Funelli, PharmD. Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2015; and American Society of Health System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2014.
- Pharmacist’s Evaluation of Rivaroxaban Dosing for Atrial Fibrillation. With Colton Hutton, PharmD, and Frank Rigelsky, PharmD, BCPS. American Society of Health System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2013.
- Evaluation of Intravenous Acetaminophen Use at a Community Hospital. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2013.
- A Pilot Study Evaluating the Effect Daily counseling by a Pharmacist on Medication Related HCAHPS Scores and Medication Reconciliation Satisfaction, Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2013, with Megan Huebner, PharmD, and Mary E Temple, MS, PharmD, BCPS.
- The Effects In-Utero Exposure to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Venlafaxine on Neonatal Outcomes, Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2013, with Ashleigh Hogue, PharmD, and Mary Temple, MS, PharmD, BCPS.
- Impact of Converting Levofloxacin to High-Dose Equivalent Regimen in a Community Teaching Hospital, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2012, with Nathan Wirick, PharmD, BCPS, and Nicholas Link, PharmD, BCOP.
- Vasopressin Use in a Medical Intensive Care Unit, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2011, with Joshua Unsworth, PharmD, BCPS.
- Justification of a Clinical Pharmacist Position in an Intensive Care Unit. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists Midyear Meeting, December 2010.
- Impact of a Clinical Pharmacist on Blood Glucose Control in the Intensive Care Unit. American College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Practice and Research Forum, April 2010.
- Impact of Pharmacist-Based Medication Discharge Counseling on Hospital Readmission Rates in General Medicine Patients. Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, May 2009.
Lecture Presentations
- Hemodynamics & Vasopressors. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, April 2014.
- ICU Pharmacy Bootcamp: How to Monitor Medications in the Patient with Hemodynamic Instability. Greater New York Health Association, Clinical Pharmacy Program, Feb 2014.
- Epilepsy Review. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, November 2013.
- Hemodynamics & Vasopressors. Cleveland Clinic Nursing Education, Critical Care Nursing Course, August 2013.
- Sepsis. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, March 2013.
- Hemodynamics & Vasopressors. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, December 2012.
- Sedation & Analgesia. Hillcrest Hospital Trauma Lecture Series, August 2012.
- Toxicology in the Intensive Care Unit. Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacists Spring Pharmacotherapy Update, Beachwood, Ohio, June 2012.
- Electrolytes & Lab Values. Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, April 2012.
- Toxicology in the Intensive Care Unit. Cleveland Clinic Health System Regional Continuing Education Meeting, Lutheran Hospital, April 2011.
- Capstone Module: Pharmaceutical Care in the Intensive Care Unit. University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, March 2010.
- Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeds & Hemodynamic Instability. University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, March 2010.
- Justifying a Clinical Pharmacist Position in the Intensive Care Unit. Mercy St. Vincent’s Medical Center, January 2010.
- Patient Safety in Psychiatry. University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, November 2009.
- Shock. University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, November 2009.
- Management of Hemodynamics in the Intensive Care Unit. University of Findlay College of Pharmacy, November 2009.
Abbi L. Smith, PharmD, BCPS
Pharmacy Manager
Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital
Cleveland, Ohio
Email: asmith2@ccf.org
Phone: 216.346.8090
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Smith graduated from The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy in 2007, completed a hospital pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital, and has been a Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist since 2008. She currently works as pharmacy manager at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital. She previously worked as a Pharmacy Manager at Euclid Hospital, and a clinical specialist in critical care since 2008 at South Pointe Hospital, both Cleveland Clinic hospitals.
Education
- PGY‐1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2008, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2007, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
- Bachelor of Science 2003, Ohio University, Athens, OH
Steve Stamos, PharmD
Oncology Pharmacist
Cleveland Clinic
Phone: 216.444.5013
Email: stamoss@ccf.org
Pager: 20717
Education
- Pharmacy Practice Residency 2014, Hillcrest Hospital a Cleveland Clinic Hospital
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2013, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine School of Pharmacy
Areas of interest
- Head and Neck Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
Teaching
- Aid preceptor for PharmD students
Presentations
- Cleveland Clinic Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee: June 2015
- Tocilizumab use for treating cytokine release syndrome (CRS) in leukemia patients after chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy (CART) or blinatumumab
- The Ohio College of Clinical Pharmacy Fall 2013 and Spring Meeting 2014
- Age adjusted vancomycin dosing protocol for the elderly
- ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, Dec. 2013
- Evaluation of bevacizumab-induced hypertension assessment and treatment in an outpatient cancer center
- Hillcrest Hospital, a Cleveland Clinic Hospital 2013
- Duration of glucocorticoids in acute COPD
- Lactobacilli plus bifidobacteria for diarrhea prevention
- Pazopanib vs. sunitinib in metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Joshua Unsworth, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Southwest General Hospital
Middleburg Heights, Ohio
Phone: 440.816.8795
Fax: 440.816.6503
Email: junsworth@swgeneral.com
Pager: 440.612.1010
Education
- Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, October 2012
- Pharmacy Practice Residency 2012, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2011, The University of Findlay, Findlay, OH
Areas of Interest
- Daily activities in the Critical Care areas
- Internal Medicine
- Infectious Disease
- Pain management
- Research development
Research/Current Projects
- Clinical rounding in the intensive Care Units
- Clinical rounding with the Internal Medicine/Hospital team
- Quality and safety improvement for pain and sedation management in critically ill patients
Service
- Committee member of the following Quality and Performance Improvement committees: Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Department of Medicine, COPD improvement project
- Member of Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee
- Member of Orders Oversight Committee
- Member of STARR Committee
- Member of Residency Accreditation Committee
Teaching
- Preceptor for PharmD candidates and Pharmacy residents
- Continuing education to pharmacy, nursing, and physicians
Honors and Awards
- President’s Award, Southwest General Hospital, Middleburg Heights, OH
- Two time Gold level award winner for willingness to go above and beyond, Southwest General Hospital, Middleburg Heights, OH
Lecture Presentations
- Management of Pain, Agitation, and Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Cleveland Society of Health-systems pharmacists (CSHP) lecture, October 2015
- A Guide to Success in Medication Adherence, Community outreach lecture to recovering Traumatic Brain Injury patients, April 2015
- Management of Pain, Agitation, and Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Continuing Medical Education (CME) lecture at Southwest General Hospital, January 2015
- Evaluation of Current Literature, Continuing Medical Education (CME) lecture at Southwest General Hospital, July 2014
- Adolescent Psychiatric Disorders, Continuing education for Berea school district nurses, March 2013
- Pharmacy Practice Model Initiative implementation in a community hospital setting, Formal presentation at ACPE Great Lakes Resident Conference at Perdue University, April 2012
- Management of Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS), Formal Lecture with CE: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to pharmacists, March 2012
- Linezolid in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Nosocomial Pneumonia, Journal club: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to clinical pharmacists, March 2012
- Insulin Management in Surgery Patients with Diabetes (RABBIT 2 Study), Journal club: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to clinical pharmacists, February 2012
- Management of Cirrhosis Complications, Topic/Case: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to clinical pharmacists, February 2012
- Acute Myocardial Infarction Treatment and Secondary Prevention, Formal Lecture with CE: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to pharmacists, January 2012
- Secondary Prevention for Acute Coronary Syndrome (ATLAS ACS trial), Journal club: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to clinical pharmacists, January 2012
- Vancomycin versus daptomycin for Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections, Journal club: Presented to clinical pharmacists, students, and a pharmacy resident, November 2011
- Fungal Endocarditis Case Presentation, Formal case presentation with CE to clinical pharmacists and a pharmacy resident, November 2011
- Favorable Ischemic Stroke Outcomes with Statins, Journal club: presented to clinical pharmacists, students, and a pharmacy resident, October 2011
- Rivaroxaban versus warfarin in A-fib stroke prevention (ROCKET AF trial), Journal club: presented to clinical pharmacists, students, and a pharmacy resident, September 2011
- New Antiplatelet Therapies for Acute Coronary Syndrome (PLATO trial), Topic/Case: Presented at Hillcrest Hospital to pharmacists and technicians, July 2011
Poster Presentations
- Co-Author: Implementation of psychiatric clinical pharmacy services in an adult inpatient psychiatry unit, Poster presentation at OCCP Spring Meeting in Cleveland, OH, June 2015
- Co-Author: Retrospective comparison of intravenous insulin adjustments using computerized decision support software versus a manual titration protocol in hospitalized patients, Poster presentation at OCCP Spring Meeting in Cleveland, OH, June 2015
- Co-Author: Implementation of a Pharmacist Directed Medication Therapy Management Service for Oral Chemotherapy Patients in an Outpatient Cancer Center, Poster presentation at OCCP Spring Meeting in Cleveland, OH, June 2014
- Co-Author: Investigating Heart Failure Readmissions after Implementation of a Pharmacist Driven Medication Management Program in a Heart Failure Clinic, Poster presentation at OCCP Spring Meeting in Cleveland, OH, June 2014
- Co-Author: Assessment of a Novel, Cost-effective strategy for Management of Chronic Respiratory Diseases in a Community Hospital, ASHP Mid-year meeting poster presentation, December 2014
- Primary investigator: Pharmacy Practice Model Initiative implementation in a community hospital setting, Poster presentation at OCCP Spring Meeting in Cleveland, OH, June 2012
- Primary investigator: Assessment of Vasopressin in a Medical/Surgical Intensive Care Unit, ASHP Mid-year meeting poster presentation, December 2011
Megan Valente, PharmD, BCACP
Heart Failure Pharmacy Clinical Specialist
Heart Failure Section
Heart & Vascular Center
The MetroHealth System
Phone: 216.778.2023
Fax: 216.778.3927
Email: mvalente@metrohealth.org
Biographical Sketch
Megan received her PharmD from the University Of Findlay College Of Pharmacy in 2012. She completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2013 and a PGY2 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Residency at Cleveland Clinic in 2014. She is currently an ambulatory care clinical specialist at Cleveland Clinic Wooster Family Health & Surgery Center (FHSC).
Education
- PGY2 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Residency 2014, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
- PGY1 Pharmacy Practice Residency 2013, Hillcrest Hospital, Mayfield Heights, OH
- Doctor of Pharmacy 2012, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH
Areas of interest
- Diabetes Management
- Hypertension Management
- Smoking Cessation
Research/Current Projects
- Currently conducting a research project evaluating thromboembolic and bleeding event rates in patients treated with rivaroxaban or warfarin in a real-world setting
- Currently participating in a research project evaluating an appointment based pharmacy model in the community pharmacy setting
- Currently participating in a drug utilization evaluation describing prescribing patterns of non-preferred antihypertensive regimens in an ambulatory care clinic
Service
- Co-Chair of quality committee at The Cleveland Clinic Wooster FHSC
- Member of the Diabetes Quality Subcommittee at The Cleveland Clinic Wooster FHSC
- Member of the Hypertension Subcommittee at The Cleveland Clinic Wooster FHSC
- Facilitator for the diabetes shared medical appointment at The Cleveland Clinic Wooster FHSC
- Manages an ambulatory care clinic practicing under a collaborative practice agreement at The Cleveland Clinic Wooster FHSC. Provides disease state management for diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking cessation, asthma, and COPD
Teaching
- Preceptor for PharmD students
- Preceptor for PGY1 residents throughout the Cleveland Clinic Health System
- Preceptor for PGY2 Ambulatory Care Residency Program at the Cleveland Clinic
- Provider of continuing education and drug in-services for nurses, pharmacists and physicians
Publications
- Huebner M, Temple-Cooper M, Lagzdins M, Yeh J. A pilot study evaluating the effect of daily education by a pharmacist on medication related HCAHPS scores and medication reconciliation. J Biosafety Health Educ. 2013;1:1-6.
Poster Presentations
- Evaluating risk of major bleeding and thromboembolic events for warfarin versus rivaroxaban in a real world setting. May 2014 OCCP Spring Meeting Cleveland, OH.
- Evaluation of warfarin patients converted to rivaroxaban. December 2013 UHC Residency Showcase Orlando, FL.
- Evaluation of warfarin patients converted to rivaroxaban. November 2013 Ohio College of Clinic Pharmacy Fall Meeting Cleveland, OH.
- Evaluation of Daptomycin Use in a Community Hospital. December 2012 ASHP Mid-Year Meeting Las Vegas, NV.
- Evaluation of Daptomycin Use in a Community Hospital. December 2012 UHC Residency Showcase Las Vegas, NV.
- A Pilot Study Evaluating the Effect of Daily Counseling by a Pharmacist on Medication Related HCAHPS Scores and Medication Reconciliation. November 2012 OCCP Fall Meeting Cleveland, OH.
- Measuring the effects of pharmacist intervention on blood glucose monitoring adherence in diabetics enrolled in the Wood County Health Department Diabetes Clinic. April 2011 Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA) Spring Meeting Columbus, OH.
- Measuring the effects of pharmacist intervention on blood glucose monitoring adherence in diabetics enrolled in the Wood County Health Department Diabetes Clinic. April 2011 University of Findlay Symposium Poster Presentation Findlay, OH.
Lecture Presentations
- Oral and Insulin Agents Diabetes Case Workshop. Cleveland Clinic Internal Medicine Residency Program. September 2015.
- Oral antidiabetic agents. Cleveland Clinic Student Advanced Pharmacy Experience Lecture December 2013, March 2014.
- Osteoarthritis Hillcrest Hospital PPMI Lecture Series, June 2013.
Kim S. Walker, PharmD
Pediatric Pharmacotherapy Fellow
The Ohio State University
College of Pharmacy
500 West 12th Ave.
Columbus, Ohio 43210
Biographical Sketch
Dr. Walker graduated from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Eshelman School of Pharmacy program in 2016, a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Hillcrest Hospital in 2017 and is currently completing a Pediatric Fellowship at The Ohio State university. She enjoys travelling, discovering new food, and music.
