Ali Hassan – Resident Pharmacist, Shifa International Hospital, Pakistan
ASHP-International Pharmacy Practice Residency Program Year 1 (IPPRP-1)
Each morning, as the city of Islamabad comes to life, I walk into Shifa International Hospital—a JCI-accredited center of excellence—carrying a profound sense of responsibility and gratitude. As a resident pharmacist under the prestigious ASHP-International Pharmacy Practice Residency Program Year 1 (IPPRP-1), I am currently immersed in my oncology rotation—a field that challenges, humbles, and inspires me every single day.
In oncology, the stakes are high and the margin for error is zero. But amidst the complexity, I have discovered the true power of pharmacy—to heal not just through medicine, but through presence, precision, and unwavering compassion. This rotation has not only sharpened my clinical skills, but has redefined how I view my purpose in healthcare. My day begins with a focused review of chemotherapy orders, where every regimen represents more than a treatment plan—it is a lifeline for someone’s mother, father, child, or friend. I ensure accuracy in dosage calculations, adjust based on renal or hepatic function, and cross-check each element against current lab values and evidence-based protocols. Every decision I contribute to is a step toward ensuring patient safety, therapeutic efficacy, and—most
importantly—hope. One of the most meaningful aspects of my role is working in the oncology sterile compounding unit. Inside this quiet, highly controlled space, I prepare medications with meticulous care under aseptic conditions. Every vial, every milliliter, every label must be exact. I often remind myself: what I prepare today has the power to fight cancer tomorrow. It’s this understanding that turns a technical task into a deeply personal mission.
Throughout the day, I engage with a dedicated team of oncologists, pharmacists, and oncology nurses. Together, we form a united front—discussing complex cases, evaluating treatment responses, and adjusting regimens based on the patient’s evolving condition. As a resident, I am encouraged to bring forward clinical insights, ask questions, and offer solutions. Being treated as a valued voice in this collaborative space has empowered me to grow in confidence and competence. I also play an active role in monitoring treatment outcomes, interpreting blood results, and identifying early signs of toxicity or resistance. Whether it’s recognizing neutropenia before it becomes dangerous or modifying doses for organ impairment, each intervention is a chance to protect a patient’s well-being and support their recovery. What makes oncology truly extraordinary, however, is the emotional depth of this field. I’ve had the chance to sit beside patients as they begin their chemotherapy journey—explaining medications, discussing side effects, and simply listening. These moments have shown me that pharmacy is not just about drugs—it’s about dignity, courage, and connection. Patients may forget what we say, but they never forget how we make them feel.
Afternoons are spent in clinical documentation, therapy planning, and inventory management—tasks that may seem routine but are crucial for ensuring continuity and readiness. I take pride in maintaining accurate records, double-checking stocks, and anticipating needs so no patient’s care is compromised. This oncology rotation has deeply impacted me. It has shown me that even as a resident, I can be a catalyst for change. Every patient encounter, every compounding session, every thoughtful intervention is part of a larger mission—to ensure safe, compassionate, and effective cancer care. I am not just learning to be a better pharmacist; I am learning to be a better human being.
Being part of the ASHP residency program at a globally recognized institution like JCI-accredited Shifa International Hospital has opened my eyes to the international standards of pharmacy practice and the limitless ways pharmacists can influence outcomes. I’ve grown as a clinician, as a communicator, and as a compassionate professional ready to take on the future of oncology care. This journey is not easy—but it is incredibly fulfilling. And each day, as I leave the hospital, I carry with me the quiet victories, the difficult conversations, the tears, the teamwork, and the unshakable belief that we pharmacists can and do make a difference. This is where my purpose found its place. And this is where my passion continues to rise.
