Kush Patel: Student Experiences at Hazelden Betty Ford Centre

After completing his third year of the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program, Kush Patel is now pursuing an MBA before returning to finish his final year of PharmD. He was drawn to the pharmacy profession after a personal experience with a pharmacist who quickly prescribed medication for an eye infection, highlighting the accessibility and impact of pharmacists in communities. 

This summer, Patel had a transformative experience at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation & University of Alberta 2024 Substance Use Disorder Immersion Program in Rancho Mirage, California, where he witnessed the critical role pharmacists play in supporting individuals with substance use disorders. The experience deepened his understanding of the connection between physical and mental health and reinforced his passion for patient care. He describes it as more valuable than any academic achievement.

In this Q & A, Patel reflects on the impact this summer experience has had on his journey in pharmacy, what he learned and how it shaped his perspective on patient care and the role of pharmacists.

Tell us about your experience at the Betty Ford Centre.

My experience at theBetty Ford Centre was transformative. Seeing people overcome addiction and the incredible staff who helped them was truly inspiring. It showed me how connected physical and mental health are and how important pharmacists are in helping people with substance use disorders. I would trade any of my “A” grades for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What did you learn, and what had the greatest impact on you?

I learned the power of empathy and treating everyone with respect, no matter what they're going through. Providing non-judgmental care is an extremely powerful skill a health-care provider should have. Seeing people's struggles and triumphs first hand made me want to be a better advocate for those facing similar challenges. 

How will you apply what you learned to your professional and student life?

I'll always remember to create a safe space for my patients and make sure they feel heard and understood. We often want to jump right in and treat patients, but we don't realize that simply by listening, we've already helped them immensely. I want to empower them with the information they need to take charge of their health and advocate for better addiction treatment options.

Would you recommend this opportunity to future students?

Absolutely! These experiences teach you things you simply can't learn in a classroom. They help you understand the real-world challenges people face, which cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. These experiences helped me become a more compassionate health-care professional.

Where did you experience the most personal growth through this experience?

I grew the most in my ability to truly understand and connect with people. Witnessing their resilience and strength in the face of addiction changed my perspective and inspired me to keep learning and advocating for others.

How has this experience impacted you as a future pharmacist?

This experience has shaped me into a more compassionate, patient-centred and culturally competent pharmacist. I will carry with me the importance of providing non-judgmental care, advocating for evidence-based treatment, and empowering patients to take control of their health. I am also more aware of the stigma surrounding addiction and the barriers it creates for individuals seeking help. I am committed to treating everyone with dignity, fighting stigma and helping my patients feel empowered to take control of their health.