by Grace Mary John, PharmD, BCIDP
2023 BPS Ambassador
They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For me, that first step wasn’t towards a destination, but rather, a bridge across a growing chasm. As a pharmacist in Kerala, India, I witnessed the exciting shift for health care towards patient-centered care, but also a nagging skepticism from some health care providers surrounding the role of clinical pharmacists. We lacked formal residency programs, and frankly, many of us, myself included, questioned our ability to truly impact patient outcomes.
Then, during a visit to the US, I encountered pharmacists holding BPS Board Certification. At that time, there were no board-certified pharmacists in India. Their expertise and confidence in navigating complex patient cases was a revelation. It was like a dam breaking within me – the potential of pharmacists, properly equipped, was undeniable. That’s when I knew I had to do something, not just for myself, but for other pharmacists in India.
I did not find the path to board certification to be easy. In the absence of pharmacy residency programs in India, I relied heavily on my years of specialized practice and the invaluable resources like the clinical practice guidelines to prepare. The process to prepare myself to sit for the Board-Certified Infectious Diseases Pharmacist (BCIDP) examination meant hours of preparation and required me to overcome self-doubt. As I overcame the hurdles in front of me, I found my resolve grew stronger.
The day arrived to sit for the infectious diseases pharmacy specialty certification examination, followed by the time waiting for my score. Holding the physical BCIDP certificate in my hand wasn’t just a personal victory; it was a validation of the potential I knew deep down I possessed. But the journey didn’t end there. Maintaining board certification requires continuous learning and adaptation, especially in the ever-evolving field of infectious diseases. It’s this commitment to staying at the forefront of my field that allows me to deliver the best possible care to my patients.
When I discuss board certification with colleagues, the conversation often centers around its impact on patients. I share real-life examples of how my expertise has helped me tackle intricate cases, prevent drug interactions, and optimize medication regimens. This translates not only to better individual outcomes but also to a more efficient and cost-effective healthcare system.
Becoming India’s first board-certified pharmacist wasn’t just about me. It was about opening doors and igniting a spark in my colleagues. As a BPS Ambassador, I now have the privilege of sharing my story and encouraging others on their own path to board certification. Witnessing the transformation of other pharmacists, their newfound confidence spurred by board certification, is truly inspiring.
The road to pursue and maintain board certification is a challenging path, but the rewards are immeasurable. It’s not just about the credential; it’s about the journey, the growth, and the unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care. It’s about becoming a leader in your field, and I encourage every pharmacist, especially those in countries developing their pharmacy programs, to take that first step. Even the most monumental journeys begin with a single, courageous step.