Pharmacist Decodes Genes And Drugs In New Field In Dallas
Annette Acker is a registered pharmacist with DNA Stat in Addison, TX, a company that provides pharmacogenomic services. Pharmacogenomic is the study of how genes affect a person's response to drugs. This is a relatively new field that combines pharmacology (the science of drugs) and genomics (the study of genes and their functions) to develop effective, safe medications and doses that will be tailored to a person's genetic makeup.
"This is a great way to help people who suffer from depression. This is real personalized medicine. This helps a doctor figure out how certain drugs will affect a person based on their genetic makeup. I evaluate a person's test results based on their metabolic enzymes and how those enzymes work on metabolizing the medications that they are taking," said Acker.
After raising a family, Acker saw her daughter go off to college. Acker decided to explore the possibilities of returning to school.
Why are you considering returning to school?
"I realize that new advances are occurring in medicine and I want to be part of a cutting-edge industry. My profession (pharmacy) has grown so much and is an extremely dynamic field. With the number of new drugs that come out every month, there is no end to the possibilities. What was known 30 years ago has doubled now just in new medicines. I think it is imperative to always be open to learning. I am considering a master's in business administration and management."
What kind of education are you considering?
"I would consider an online education. This would be more convenient for me because I have a full-time job and don't have extra time to drive back and forth to a campus."
What do you think the biggest reward would be for you in going back to school to earn another degree?
"I believe I will get a better of understanding of pharmacy. There is always something new that is discovered in the field of medicine and patient care. Earning another degree will make me more marketable."
Robin D. Everson is a native Chicagoan who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her appreciation for art, food, wine, people and places has helped her become a well-respected journalist. A life-long lover of education, Robin seeks to learn and enlighten others about culture. You can find her work at Examiner.com