At the Walgreens Pharmacy in Montgomery, staff members navigate a bustling environment with remarkable efficiency and grace. The 24-hour pharmacy, known for its organized chaos, serves as a vital resource for the community, handling high volumes of customers and prescriptions daily.
On a typical day, the pharmacy can see up to eight cars in the drive-thru and an equal number of customers waiting inside. The team is not only responsible for filling prescriptions but also managing interactions with doctors, clinics, and insurance companies. This multitasking is essential in ensuring that patient needs are met effectively.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Leading the pharmacy operations is Jeff Stacey, the Pharmacy Manager, who has been with Walgreens for two decades and at the Montgomery location for approximately eight years. His role involves overseeing daily operations, addressing patient needs, and ensuring compliance with legal and business requirements. Stacey notes, “Day to day operations, filling prescriptions and dealing with problems is how I describe my job. And regarding problems, the buck stops with me.” He commends his team, stating, “Our staff is great. They work hard and are always trying their best. They’re out there trying to help people.”
Another key figure in the pharmacy is Stephanie McGinnis, a Staff Pharmacist who also boasts 20 years with the company, including 14 at the Montgomery store. McGinnis highlights the changes in the pharmacy landscape since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, noting the increased stress levels due to staffing limitations and a surge in prescription volume. “Retail pharmacy has become a different world since COVID. We’re giving immunizations and doing COVID testing, which puts more demands on our staff,” she explains. Despite the challenges, she finds fulfillment in helping patients feel better.
Frontline Experience and Customer Care
Certified Pharmacy Technician Sandy Macias has been part of the Montgomery Walgreens team for 10 years and is recognized for her exceptional customer service. With around ten technicians working at the pharmacy, Macias stands out for her ability to connect with customers, often being the face of the pharmacy. She reflects on her role during busy periods, saying, “I’m a people person, and I really like helping customers. Even though some of it is routine, I always see different sorts of problems and always have a puzzle to solve.”
Macias is also bilingual, which enhances her ability to assist a diverse clientele. She emphasizes the importance of empathy in her job, recognizing that many customers are unwell and facing challenges. “I try to remember that even when I do get a little bit upset, many customers are sick and have to wait in a line. I try to put myself in their shoes, and that’s what helps me to cope,” she adds.
The teamwork and dedication displayed by the pharmacy staff ensure that the community remains supported during challenging times. Their ability to manage a high-pressure environment while providing compassionate care is commendable. As we rely on pharmacies for essential services, it is vital to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of the professionals behind the counter.
Next time you visit a pharmacy, consider expressing gratitude to the staff who play a critical role in maintaining public health and well-being. Their contributions often go unseen but are essential to the healthcare system.
