Q: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Racine, WI. I have lived in Wisconsin my entire life.
Q: Where did you go to college?
I attended Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI.
Q: What are your favorites?
Food: Tacos
Movie: All of the Harry Potter films
Musicians: Lady Gaga, Elvis Presley and Pink
Destination: Any place with great food and a beach
Q: What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my four kids and husband. We are usually on the go with the multitude of sports and activities with the children. In addition, I am a high school cheer coach. If I am not with my family outside of work, then you will find me at a practice, game or competition.
Q: What kind of work does your company do in 340B and what makes it stand out?
AllianceRx Walgreens Pharmacy is part of the 340B industry in a contract pharmacy aspect and as part of the third-party administrators through Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA). We are unique as we are specialty pharmacy. In all aspects of our 340B work, we ensure the specialty patient, and their journey is a focus.
Q: Why did you choose to work in the 340B space?
I chose to work in the 340B space because it is a mission that I can stand behind. We are striving to provide better care and outcomes for our mutual patients. The work done in the 340B space allows us to do just that each and every day.
Q: What do you feel is your most significant contribution to the 340B world or to a 340B customer/client?
I feel that my most significant contribution to the 340B world has been the work I do in my current role with AllianceRx Walgreens Pharmacy. I have been able to champion the specialty patient journey and share the specialty pharmacy perspective with many partners along the way. I have been fortunate and was given the opportunity to present at the most recent 340B Coalition conference. During which time, I was able to share the importance of being active with each program, program compliance and how transparency within the program will lead to success.
Q: What advice do you have for a young professional who has recently launched a career in the 340B space?
Never stop trying to learn new things. There is always something new to learn within 340B. The information can be overwhelming at times but be open to the opportunities and experiences 340B provides. You will be amazed at how far you can go when you absorb the new information. Remember that the work you are doing is truly making an impact on someone’s life.
For questions, ShaiAnn Howard can be reached at ShaiAnn.Howard@alliancerxwp.com.
Read ShaiAnn’s recent article, “The Importance of Strong Partnerships to Enhance Patient Care, Reduce Costs and Maximize Compliance.”
