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ICHP Leadership Spotlight
Meet Radhika S. Polisetty, PharmD, BCIDP, BCPS AQ-ID, AAHIVP
What is your leadership position within ICHP?
I am currently the Secretary of NISHP (Northern Illinois Society of Health-System Pharmacists).
Describe your practice site.
I work as an Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice at Midwestern University College of Pharmacy in Downers Grove. I also practice as an Infectious Diseases/Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL.
Tell us about a time when you made a difference at work.
At the start of the COVID pandemic, as an Infectious Diseases Specialist, I was tasked with coming up with a COVID treatment protocol for our institution and also enrolling our hospital as a site for clinical trials and expanded access protocols for medications such as remdesivir (which has since received FDA approval). I worked closely with our research team to help ensure our patients had access to the upcoming therapeutic options as they became available.
What pharmacy-related issues keep you up at night?
I think as an inpatient acute care pharmacist, the medication shortages are really hurting our patients. It is a complex issue with no easy solutions, so it does keep me up at night. This issue also hits home harder for me as an ID specialist because we do not have many therapeutic options left for patients with multidrug-resistant organisms.
What makes ICHP great?
I think what makes ICHP great is that they put patient care first and provide pharmacists and technicians from various specialties the tools they need to succeed at their jobs and grow in their careers. I am also very impressed by the resources that they provide students and residents in terms of medical education as well as leadership opportunities.
What initially motivated you to get involved in ICHP?
When I first moved to IL and started my position as a faculty member at Midwestern University, I had the opportunity to work with some of my colleagues to provide an ICHP educational session. It was a very rewarding experience and I continued to participate in future educational events as a speaker and as a participant. I have learned so much by networking with my peers and hearing what others are doing at their respective institutions.
is there an individual that you admire or look up to, or a mentor that has influenced your career?
I am so grateful to have a several faculty mentors and friends who have provided me with guidance, support and advice throughout my career. I would not have been able to establish my service at my clinical site or succeed as an educator without their help. I strive to pay it forward and try to be a resource for my students, trainees and junior faculty members.
What advice would you give to student pharmacists?
Don’t be afraid to pursue your ideas or seek opportunities outside your comfort zone. You will always find help if you seek it. Don’t let pre-conceived notions and old biases keep you from achieving bold new things.
What are your special interests or hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work I love to spend time with my family, travel and listen to music.
Where is your favorite place to vacation?
Oh that is a tough one. I love to travel and it is hard for me to pick a favorite! Will go with Europe because I love the scenic views, art, history and food there.
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