Megan Ann McGregor was always interested in working in a medical field, but once she got behind the pharmacy counter, it was love at first patient interaction. McGregor was named the 2021 Best Up-and-Coming Intern for her dedication to customers, which includes finding ways to save them as much as possible on their prescriptions. As a pharmacy technician, she’s an advocate for patients and is often hands on with their care, whether that means making sure her customers know how to use their medical devices or navigating insurance coverage issues to find the most affordable medications. Now that she’s in her senior year of college, she’s exploring pharmacy schools to take her education, and her career, to the next level. 

Why did you decide to become a pharmacy technician?

I’m currently going to college, majoring in biology. I knew I wanted to do something in the medical field, but I knew I didn’t want to be a doctor. I was considering becoming a physician’s assistant. Then I saw a help wanted sign at CVS. I thought it would be a good way to get into the medical field. I started researching it and took the national certification exam before I was even hired.

I like to make sure that the medication is the cheapest that it can be for a customer.

Then, I ended up loving it! That’s what made me decide to become a pharmacist. I’ve taken certification exams in medication history and technician product verification to learn more about doses and to reduce errors. I’m an overachiever. I really enjoy going the extra mile and getting the extra certifications. After undergrad, I’m going to go to pharmacy school to be a pharmacist.

How do you go above and beyond for your customers?

The first thing that comes to mind is pricing. I like to make sure that the medication is the cheapest that it can be for a customer if something’s not covered by insurance or if it’s is really expensive. Sometimes that means using a coupon for them. Other times, it means getting in touch with a doctor for an alternative medication that costs less out of pocket. 

I like to research diabetes treatments. A lot of people who are newly diagnosed are very overwhelmed. It’s a really expensive disease to have. Insulin costs a lot, and so can medical equipment like continuous glucose monitors. I like to try to help with that and make sure people know how to use their meters and can afford everything. 

There was a man newly diagnosed with diabetes who came into the store and tried to purchase a continuous glucose monitor. His insurance denied the equipment, and it was super expensive. I figured out that if he switched from one brand to another, it was covered.

What should customers know about saving money?

It’s easier than it sounds. Pharmacies should always be willing to help, whether it’s downloading an app or using a manufacturer coupon.

Saving money is a benefit on its own. On top of that, it improves medication adherence. If medication is more affordable, customers don’t have to ration insulin because it’s too expensive or skip taking medication because they can’t afford it.  

Everyone is going through something. If I was in their situation, what would I want them to do for me?

Do you have a favorite customer story to share?

There’s a Deaf customer who fills prescriptions at our store. I speak a little sign language, so I’m the only person who can talk with her. It makes her really happy that she has someone who can communicate without having to write everything down. It’s not even about the medication; it’s about making her smile.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your job?

Since the pandemic started, the pharmacy has been busier. I’ve learned how to give injections. Because of COVID-19, my state allows pharmacy technicians to do more, like giving vaccinations. As a store, we started doing antibody testing. I’ve also been able to travel and do COVID vaccine clinics. There was this one woman who I gave the COVID vaccine to, and she was so excited. She wanted to take a picture with me. I got to meet a lot of people who were so happy to get the immunization. 

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is the look on someone’s face when I tell them that they can get their medication at a price that they can afford—that it won’t cost them an arm and a leg.

I really care about people. I try to put myself in others’ shoes and really feel for them. Everyone is going through something. If I was in their situation, what would I want them to do for me?