Pharmacist Spotlight: Lori Murdock

This month’s pharmacist spotlight features Lori Murdock. Lori has been the owner of Cedar Creek Pharmacy in De Soto, Kan. since 2004. She shared with us why she decided to become a pharmacy owner and what makes the job so rewarding.

When did you realize that you wanted to become a pharmacist?

My original intention when starting college was to go to medical school. I knew health care was in my future. After about a year of college I changed plans and decided to go into pharmacy. I have loved everything about that decision.

Why did you decide to become a pharmacy owner and what do you find most rewarding about independent pharmacy?

I decided to buy the pharmacy I had worked at since the day it opened. I have been the pharmacist in charge since day one at Cedar Creek Pharmacy. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that you are trusted with the health of your clients. As the owner, I make the decisions on changes, policies, and programs that allow us to help our clients obtain optimal health and wellness.

What advice would you offer to students still in pharmacy school or those considering becoming a pharmacist?

Pharmacy is a profession with much opportunity. It is important to find a role in the profession that fits your interests. The profession is always changing and the need to stay on top of the change is important whether you own a pharmacy or work for someone. Never stop learning and never forget that you are here for your patients.

You once served as Chair of the Currus Board of Directors. What did that experience teach you about what Currus does on behalf of independent pharmacies in Kansas?

Currus is the voice of independent pharmacies in Kansas and now more than ever independent pharmacies need to come together with one voice. Currus helps to keep independent pharmacy owners up to date on programs, services, opportunities, and much more. It is important to have something to tie all independent pharmacies together and Currus does just that.

What are you most proud of that your pharmacy has accomplished? 

I am proud of my pharmacy and staff every day! Every day a customer will go out of their way to thank us or compliment a staff member in a way above normal gratitude. Our goal is “Optimal health and wellness for our customers” and we do everything we can to make this happen each and every day.