Her Story
About Betsy (Elizabeth)
Elizabeth Perkins has been active in the pharmaceutical field since 2004. After earning her Bachelor's of Arts in Chemistry and Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Auburn University, she began her career in retail pharmacy at CVS and Target, where she developed a passion for patient counseling and guidance. She later joined Rite Aid as a regional leader overseeing 20 stores in Washington and Oregon, gaining experience in point-of-care testing during the COVID outbreak. For the past five years, Perkins has worked at the non-profit MedProject, where she collaborates with legislators, boards of pharmacy, and departments of health on the proper disposal of medications. Based in the East Division, she oversees operations in Illinois, Maine, and Kansas while working remotely and traveling as needed. Her expertise includes medications and their uses, proper disposal practices, and education on medication compliance. Perkins attributes her success to her parents, grandparents, athletics, discipline, and organization. She advises aspiring professionals to prioritize patient care above all and to pursue the field only if they love it.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Betsy (Elizabeth)
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say my parents and my grandparents. Athletics, discipline, organization, and support and love.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Be true to yourself and only do it if you love it.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Your patients always come first, and always stay up to date with all the new drugs that are coming on the market. If you're in it for the money, then you shouldn't be in it, because the patients always come first, and the patient care should be your number one priority.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Retail pharmacists face long hours without enough breaks, high script counts, and not enough staff to help. There is also a decrease in chain footprint across the nation.
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