The Vital Role of Pharmacy Services at Spencer Hospital
posted by Micaela Maeyaert, PharmD, BCPS, DPLA on Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Behind every medication a patient receives at Spencer Hospital is a skilled team of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians working to ensure safety, accuracy, and effectiveness. From the moment a prescription is ordered to the time it reaches the patient, our pharmacy team plays a vital role in every step of care.
Medications can make an incredible difference in a patient’s recovery and long-term health, but only when used correctly. That’s why our pharmacists carefully review every medication order, check for interactions, verify doses, and guarantee each treatment plan is right for the individual patient.
Comprehensive Pharmacy Services
Our team includes ten pharmacists and seven pharmacy technicians who support patients in nearly every area of the hospital, including the Medical-Surgical Unit, ICU, Behavioral Health, Birth Center, Surgery Center, Infusion Center, and the new Emergency Department.
We also provide pharmacy services for the Abben Cancer Center, where two dedicated oncology pharmacists collaborate with medical oncologist Dr. Cuervo and the cancer care team. Beyond the hospital, our pharmacists support the Warner Dialysis Centers in Spencer and Spirit Lake, our ambulance service, and several of our family practice and specialty clinics throughout the region.
Altogether, the pharmacy dispenses more than 20,000 doses of medication each month. Each one is prepared, checked, and delivered with precision and care to ensure the highest level of patient safety.
One-on-One Support for Patients
Spencer Hospital also offers appointments with our clinical pharmacists – an important resource for patients managing multiple medications or complex treatment plans. During these one-on-one visits, pharmacists review prescriptions, discuss concerns or side effects, and coordinate closely with each patient’s provider to verify their medications are working as intended.
Scheduling a visit is simple: patients can ask their healthcare provider for a referral, and our team will reach out to arrange an appointment.
The Backbone of the Pharmacy
Our pharmacy technicians are a cornerstone of daily operations. They prepare and deliver medications, manage inventory, and compound sterile IVs in controlled environments. Every dose is individually packaged and barcoded for safety. Technicians also assist with immunizations, helping ensure patients are up to date on vaccines before leaving the hospital.
Recognizing Pharmacy Week
As we celebrate National Pharmacy Week from October 19–25, we take pride in highlighting the work our pharmacy team does every day to keep patients safe and healthy. Their expertise extends far beyond filling prescriptions – they are trusted partners in patient care, collaborating across departments to ensure the best possible outcomes.
And on October 21, Pharmacy Technician Day, we extend a special thank you to our dedicated technicians for the essential role they play in our hospital’s success.
At Spencer Hospital, we’re proud of our pharmacy team’s commitment to excellence. Their behind-the-scenes work has a direct, lasting impact on the health of our patients and our community.
- medications
- pharmacy