Pam Lewis | Member Spotlight

Early Career

Pam Lewis began her career at SMH as a Clinical Pharmacist on February 23, 1987. Soon after, she completed the Supervisor Management Course and was promoted to Evening Pharmacy Supervisor, where she quickly distinguished herself as a capable and trusted leader.

In 1993, Pam transitioned into the role of IRB Coordinator despite having no prior experience in the area. Her success in this position led to formal recognition in 1999 by Drs. J. Gallagher and M. Magenheim and the IRB members for five years of dedicated service.

She later transitioned to Investigational Study Coordinator, a role she continues to serve in today, developing policies and procedures that ensure the safe and compliant participation of patients in clinical trials.

Medication Safety

In 2000, Pam assumed the additional role of Medication Safety Specialist, expanding her impact across the organization. She led initiatives that measurably strengthened medication safety systems and improved patient outcomes.

In 2016, she was instrumental in achieving hospital compliance with USP <800>, federally enforceable standards governing the safe handling of hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. This project was published and is cited on the CDC’s website under hazardous drug resources as providing helpful “how-to” information for healthcare workers.

Mentorship

Pam has also played a pivotal role in education and mentorship. Since the pharmacy residency program’s inception in 2000, she has served as the primary preceptor for the core Medication Safety rotation.

Nearly 100 pharmacy residents have benefited from her expertise, guidance, and unwavering commitment to excellence, carrying forward the patient safety principles she instilled in them.

Honors

Her contributions have been formally recognized through numerous honors, including the Patient Safety Culture Collaboration Participation Award (2013), the Excel Award of the Month (2018), and the Distinguished Pharmacy Research and Innovation Award (2023) for her leadership in the safe, accurate, and timely delivery of investigational medications.

Leadership

Throughout nearly four decades at SMH, Pam has not simply fulfilled her roles—she has elevated them.

Her leadership has strengthened systems, protected countless patients and healthcare professionals, advanced research integrity, and shaped the next generation of pharmacists.

Pam's impact is woven into the culture of safety and excellence that defines the organization today. Her leadership significantly enhanced protections for patients and staff.

Celebrate an Extraordinary Career

As we celebrate Pam’s extraordinary career, we also celebrate the beginning of a well-earned retirement.

We wish her relaxation, adventure, and countless joyful moments in this next chapter. Enjoy your retirement, Pam — you have truly earned it.