Innovators of Home Infusion: Insights with Maria Giannakos, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, BCSCP, FNHIA
We are excited to feature Maria Giannakos, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, BCSCP, FNHIA, a Medication Safety Officer at Option Care Health, as part of our "Innovators of Home Infusion" series. Maria is a distinguished member of the National Home Infusion Association's (NHIA) 2024 Fellow Program cohort, recognized for her significant contributions to the home infusion industry. With a passion for research and patient care, Maria has dedicated her career to enhancing the quality and accessibility of home infusion services.
Career Inspiration and Achievements
One of Maria's most notable achievements that contributed to her selection as an NHIA Fellow was her role as Residency Program Director. She reflects on this experience, stating, "In my previous position as Residency Program Director, I was able to lead and graduate 29 brand new pharmacy practitioners through our comprehensive residency training program. Our seven residency sites also individually achieved full accreditation from ASHP." This accomplishment not only underscores her commitment to education but also highlights her dedication to nurturing the next generation of pharmacy professionals in home infusion.
Industry Evolution and Challenges
Maria believes that the home infusion industry will continue to gain recognition for its vital role in delivering safe and effective healthcare. She states, "Home infusion will continue to gain recognition for its unique role in the safe and effective delivery of health care. We will continue to be at the forefront of providing new therapies to patients in the comfort of their own homes." As healthcare shifts towards more patient-centered approaches, Maria envisions a future where home infusion becomes an integral part of treatment plans for various conditions.
Professional Growth and Contributions
Maria is passionate about mentoring future pharmacists and encouraging their growth within the home infusion profession. She shares, "I love helping others develop and grow. My residency graduates know that I will not lose sight of them, and I will continue to encourage them to lean further into their home infusion careers into more advanced roles and leadership opportunities." This dedication not only impacts their careers but also enriches Maria's professional journey.
Research and Technological Advancements
In discussing the importance of research in home infusion, Maria emphasizes its role in demonstrating value and safety. She explains, "Research is extremely important to advancing home infusion practice. Through research, we can demonstrate the value and safety of home infusion, as well as educate others. Research allows us to standardize through best practices as well as optimize care delivery through innovation." By advancing knowledge in home infusion practices, Maria aims to enhance patient outcomes and educate others about the benefits of this approach.
Advocacy and Access
Maria is also committed to advocacy efforts that promote equitable access to home infusion services. She participated in NHIA Hill Day, where she met with multiple Congressional offices to advocate for Medicare beneficiaries' access to these essential services. Her efforts underscore the critical need for policy changes that support home infusion as a viable healthcare option. "I was fortunate to have participated in NHIA Hill Day to meet with eight different Congressional offices and advocate on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries to have equitable access to home infusion services," she notes.
Personal Motivation and Goals
What drives Maria in her career is the knowledge that home infusion services can significantly improve patients' quality of life. She states, "I am motivated by knowing that there is a loved one who experiences an improved quality of life through the availability of home infusion services." Additionally, she is passionate about inspiring pharmacy students to consider careers in home infusion, ensuring a bright future in the field.
Impact of IMS
Maria acknowledges the role IMS plays in enhancing patient outcomes within home infusion. She states, "IMS has adapted to ongoing supply challenges specific to home infusion needs”. This adaptability is essential for maintaining the integrity of patient care in a dynamic healthcare environment.
Biography
Maria Giannakos, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, BCSCP, FNHIA, serves as a Medication Safety Officer at Option Care Health. With extensive experience in both clinical practice and education, Maria plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of home infusion services. Her leadership and advocacy efforts continue to inspire both peers and mentees alike as she works towards improving patient care through her passion for medication safety and home infusion research.
Author: Alina Garber