Being in healthcare for over 2o years produces natural acclimation with the basic assessment process: Look, Listen & Feel. Pharmacy operations works similar in this assessment model. The most telling information is sometimes observed in the visual dynamics of the system. On-site assessments provide the needed ‘look’ on potential complex gaps to success. Are human factor engineering and environmental layout conducive to a successful day….are key programs within the hospital functioning in such a way as sustainability can be achieved…. are tools and competencies established and maintained. Listening to staff and multidisciplinary colleagues can also shed light on what is missing within the program. These may be comments on the extremes or neutral non-commital suggestions. There may be energized staff lower in the ranks with refreshing ideas that currently are without a voice. And there can be rogue staff that continue to fight updated national guidelines and standardization. Likewise, there may be executives outside of pharmacy that occasionally need to be heard and re-educated on key fiscal pharmacy topics as well as pharmacy operation standards.

The ‘feel’ assessment is the emotional charging or response that is witnessed when prioritized goals are set. How will this change make you feel? Are you nervous or pained by the anticipated work ahead? Or will you feel relieved and charged for the possibility of something better ahead?