KINGSTON, R.I. – November 29, 2010 – The theme of October’s American Pharmacy Month reception was, “Know your medicine, know your pharmacist.” Those in attendance got a chance to do just that and learned about Andrea Dooley, the first in Rhode Island to be named the Certified Diabetes Outpatient Educator Pharmacist of the Year.

Dooley, a University of Rhode Island assistant clinical pharmacy professor, completed the certification course about three years ago and was recognized with the award after being nominated by her peers. The statewide organization looks to improve and develop educators’ knowledge of diabetes to better help patients and provide them with improved care.

“The certification course is an intense program that touches on multiple aspects of diabetic information. In my particular field, I am expected to be knowledgeable about drug therapy, but I also need to be skilled in talking to patients about nutrition, exercise and complications. It helps you become proficient and well-rounded about the topic,” said Dooley.

With her clinical work based at the Providence Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dooley is constantly in contact with patients facing various diabetes issues. She counsels them on the types of medications they need to take, the procedures involved and helping them manage the disease.

“There is so much we can do for patients with diabetes now more than ever,” said Dooley, commenting on the increase in the disease prevalence. “Because there is a lot of self care involved, pharmacists have multiple opportunities to counsel patients and help to manage their day-to-day life. These new opportunities make it an increasingly exciting time to be a student.”