Pharmacy school grads will help build new residency program at Adventist health's Pharmacy

“The residency program is a great opportunity to expose new pharmacy graduates to pharmacy practices in a comprehensive hospital setting,” says Dr. John Choi, Pharmacy executive director.

But the program will also benefit by gaining fresh new perspective from the residents.

“Their input of new clinical thinking, evaluations and up-to-date training, combined with the knowledge of our long-time pharmacists, will elevate the quality of care we offer our patients,” says Dr. Kristy Fitzgerald, who’s overseeing the residency program.

They were matched following state and international conferences last year and happen to be pharmacy graduates from the same institution – California Northstate University, College of Pharmacy in Elk Grove, Calif.

Jeff Guan

Photo Courtesy Adventist Health

Dr. Jeff Guan grew up in China and moved to the Bay Area when he was 12 years old.

“When I was in China, I remember walking into a pharmacy and becoming fascinated by medications, how they worked and how people overcame their illnesses,” says Dr. Guan.

He’s looking forward to working in a clinical setting and becoming a well-rounded clinician.

Dr. Guan is fluent in English and Cantonese. He enjoys traveling, exploring new restaurants and fishkeeping.

Dr. Tatev Kirakosyan grew up in Armenia and moved to Pasadena, California when she was 14 years old.

“I was attracted to this field after witnessing the level of trust patients have with their pharmacists,” says Dr. Kirakosyan.

She’s excited about the knowledge she hopes to gain from Adventist Health pharmacists, doctors, nurses and others she comes into contact with during the residency.

Dr. Kirakosyan is fluent in English, Armenian and Russian. She enjoys visiting movie theaters and the beach and doing outdoor activities.

More information about the residency program is available by calling Fitzgerald at 559-537-2203.