Kathy Tam
Director, Professional Programs and Education
What is your role at OPA, and what does it entail?
I am the Director of Professional Programs and Education. I lead the continuing professional development (CPD) strategic direction and oversee the creation, development, and launch of innovative, high-quality continuing education that meets the evolving needs of pharmacy professionals. In my role, I work with subject matter experts, authors, reviewers, corporate clients, and strategic partners to build continuing education that is relevant, accurate, and effective to support the profession.
What is your educational/career background, and what drew you to OPA?
I went to the University of Toronto for my pharmacy degree. I worked in community pharmacy for several years before my career took me to diverse roles where I used my pharmacist hat to support pharmacy professionals and patients. My experience includes medical writing, pharmacy services to support expanded scope, and managing patient support programs for specialty drugs.
I’ve been an OPA member since I was a student, and I’ve always believed in the work OPA does to support the profession as essential healthcare providers. When the opportunity came up to work for OPA, I welcomed the chance to be part of OPA’s mission.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Being able to help patients has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a pharmacist. In this role, I can help pharmacists and technicians practice to their best to support their patients.
Why is professional development such an important investment for pharmacy professionals? Why is it important to apply continuous learning to your practice?
The medical field continues to evolve rapidly with new drugs, technologies, and research coming out all the time. CPD is essential for pharmacy professionals to grow and keep up with new knowledge and changes in practice. Investing in continuing education allows pharmacy professionals to apply the latest knowledge and guidelines to help improve patient outcomes, practice expanded scope activities to ensure more Ontarians can access care, and build confidence so that clinical decisions can be made effectively and safely.
In your view, what might the future of pharmacy look like?
I can see pharmacies becoming a health hub for communities, and pharmacists and technicians playing a greater role in patient care. Advances in technology and changes in policy will be needed to support this shift to allow more time for patient interactions that will have a meaningful impact on their health.
When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your time?
I love spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and trying the latest food trends/restaurants in Toronto. During quiet times, I enjoy doing puzzles or playing boardgames.
What is your favourite place in the world?
My favourite place is wherever I’m with my family.
What’s a recent book, movie, or show you’ve enjoyed?
I recently finished the Spider-Noir series. I watched the black-and-white version, and it was fantastic. The mashup of 1930’s gangsters and superheroes was great storytelling. I’ll need to watch it in the colour version to see if it evokes the same mood.
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