A Conversation with Pharmacist Kim Volman
This page features an interview-style Q&A with Kim Volman, a pharmacist focused on thoughtful, patient-centered healthcare. Through this conversation, Kim shares his background, perspectives on pharmacy, and views on how healthcare can work better for both patients and providers.
Interview Questions with Kim
Q: For anyone meeting you for the first time, can you share a bit about your background?
Sure. I’m a pharmacist by training, but my work has grown beyond the traditional pharmacy setting. I’ve always been interested in how medications, systems, and people intersect. Over time, that curiosity turned into a broader focus on patient-centered care, healthcare innovation, and writing about where pharmacy is headed.
Q: What originally drew you to pharmacy?
I liked the balance. Pharmacy is very science-driven, but it also involves constant interaction with people. You’re not just dealing with data; you’re dealing with real lives. That combination really appealed to me and still does.
Q: How do you think the pharmacist’s role has evolved?
A lot. Pharmacists used to be seen mainly as dispensers, but today we’re much more involved in clinical decision-making, education, and long-term care. Patients rely on pharmacists for clarity, especially when healthcare feels confusing or rushed.
Q: You often talk about patient-centered care. What does that actually look like in practice?
To me, it means slowing things down enough to listen. It’s making sure people understand why they’re taking a medication, what to expect, and what questions to ask. Small conversations can have a big impact on outcomes.
Q: What parts of pharmacy are you most passionate about right now?
Medication safety, adherence, and smarter systems. I’m really interested in how technology and better workflows can reduce errors and make care more personalized instead of one-size-fits-all.
Q: Innovation is a big theme in your work. How do you define it?
Innovation doesn’t always mean new tech. Sometimes it’s just fixing what’s broken or simplifying something that’s overly complicated. In healthcare, innovation should always reminder patient trust and safety.
Q: What do you see as some of the biggest challenges in healthcare today?
Time pressure is huge for patients and providers. There’s also a lack of coordination between systems, which can leave people feeling lost. These problems aren’t always solved by working harder, but by working smarter.
Q: What advice would you give pharmacists early in their careers?
Don’t box yourself in. Pharmacy can lead to many paths: clinical, consulting, education, tech, writing, and leadership. Build communication skills early, and don’t underestimate the value of your perspective.
Q: How do you personally stay current in such a fast-changing field?
I read a lot, follow healthcare discussions, and stay open to learning from different disciplines. Healthcare changes constantly, and staying curious is the best way to keep up.
Q: What motivates you beyond your professional work?
Meaningful conversations and helping people make sense of complex systems. I enjoy writing because it allows me to slow things down and explain things in a way that feels human, not overwhelming.
Q: What do you hope people take away from your work?
I hope they feel more informed and confident. Healthcare can feel intimidating, and if my work helps someone ask better questions or feel more supported, that matters to me.
Healthcare is constantly evolving, but at its core, it’s still about people. Through this conversation, Kim Volman shares a practical, human perspective on pharmacy, patient care, and innovation with the belief that clear communication and thoughtful systems can make a real difference.