Clinical Pharmacy in Motion: Ride-Alongs and Research in EMS

Hennepin EMS in Minnesota is breaking new ground in prehospital care with the introduction of a clinical pharmacist consulting role, designed to tackle complex challenges and foster collaboration between paramedics and pharmacists through hands-on support and cutting-edge research. The clinical pharmacist acts as a bridge between hospital and field operations, ensuring prehospital teams have the support they need to improve patient outcomes. A critical part of the pharmacist’s responsibilities includes hands-on engagement. From participating in ambulance ride-alongs to hosting open-door consultations, this role prioritizes practical and actionable solutions. At the heart of this initiative is Holly Drone, PharmD, Hennepin EMS’s clinical pharmacist. Not only has Holly been integral to placing this program into action, but she’s also contributing to the field through her research. Her studies focus on essential topics such as Sodium Nitrate Overdose management, the initiation of Buprenorphine in prehospital settings, and the use of Oral Risperidone by EMS providers in the field. To learn more about this innovative role and hear directly about her experiences and research, check out her recent interview on the podcast “EMS Research with Professor Bram.” Holly provides unique insights into the evolving relationship between paramedics and pharmacists as well as the critical role clinical pharmacy plays in improving prehospital care.