write a good news headline for this article: Dr. Jan Marie Salcido, pharmacy manager at Ralphs #96 in Pasadena, has been recognized by SingleCare, the free prescription savings service that delivers the lowest prices on the most commonly filled prescriptions, as one of 10 Best of the Best Pharmacists for 2023, the organization announced last week. 

The 2023 Best of the Best Pharmacy Awards also recognized 10 Best Pharmacy Technicians and five Best Pharmacy Teams throughout the United States. 

Dr. Salcido, who has been working in the community pharmacy field for about 13 years now, said she was personally very touched to be recognized for great customer service.

“It also means so much more to me to have been nominated by our patients directly,” she said. “Overall, I really enjoy my job on a daily basis, and I just feel lucky that I get to help people, which is something I really enjoy. And then professionally, it's just kind of a milestone in my career. I really hope that it brings attention to how hard pharmacy teams work together just to make sure that our patients are well taken care of and safe.” 

Dr. Salcido has been pharmacy manager for Ralphs in Pasadena for five years already, and before that was at the Burbank location for four years. While in pharmacy school, she also worked four years as an intern. 

Initially pursuing a career in biotech as a bench chemist, she had a change of heart after her husband shared an article that ranked “pharmacist” as a top career choice for women. The opportunity to blend her scientific skills with a people-centric approach appealed to Dr. Salcido, and she enrolled in the University of Southern California’s pharmacy program to pursue her new calling.

As the pharmacy manager at Ralphs #96, Dr. Salcido makes sure that her team provides personalized care to their patients, often going above and beyond to meet their unique needs. 

At one time, Dr. Salcido was involved in advising Hollywood, serving as a commercial consultant for Kroger, the parent company of Ralphs, where she advised an actress portraying a pharmacist on real-life details. She describes the experience as “such a fun and special moment.” 

Dr. Salcido is not only a highly accomplished pharmacist but has also achieved notable recognition throughout her career. She is a member of the Rho Chi Pharmacy Honor Society and has received the Ralphs Rising Star Award in 2015 and the Ralphs Pharmacy Award in 2014.

Dr. Salcido also does community volunteer work, having spent some time helping Friends in Deed in Pasadena, especially with The Women’s Room, serving women who are alone and experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. 

“They just give women a safe place to come during the day,” she said. “We feed them, there are showers, laundry, facilities, toiletries and activities with them. So it's kind of just a way to connect in that realm.” 

In the SingleCare article announcing the awards, Dr. Salcido spoke passionately about the impact of her work. She recalled having a patient who had concerns about the safety of his blood pressure medication; instead of dismissing his worries, Dr. Salcido took the time to reassure him and switch him to a medication he felt comfortable taking. She was eventually able to help the patient with other health issues, including wheezing and even administering a pneumonia vaccination.

Dr. Salcido also discussed the challenges she has faced as a pharmacist, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic and now that there’s a higher demand for immunizations and an increasing volume of patients, resulting in a more challenging and stressful environment. 

When asked for advice to other healthcare professionals, Dr. Salcido emphasized the importance of taking the time to connect with patients, showing kindness, and having confidence in oneself.

“A few simple acts could really change the scope of your career, your practice,” she said. “Our patients instill a really high level of trust among pharmacists, mostly because we're still accessible when we're right there to answer all their questions. Just continue to grow that relationship.” 

Dr. Jan Marie Salcido’s journey from a bench chemist to a highly respected pharmacist showcases her passion and dedication to providing exceptional care to her patients. With her newest award, she now serves as an inspiration to all healthcare professionals aspiring to make a positive impact on the lives of their patients.