Best of the Best award star

Best Up-and-Coming Pharmacist

Nicholas Kallabat

Pharmacy Technician

Photo by Hollie Williamson
Drugs icon Walgreens Maps icon Wayne, MI

How long have you been working in pharmacy?

I currently work at Walgreens. I have worked there for two years. I’m a licensed pharmacy technician and PTCB certified. I’m in school and just finalizing my application to pharmacy school for the fall of 2020.

Why did you become a pharmacist technician?

I lost someone to opioid addiction, so I went into the field so I could be there for others who might be struggling with addiction.

What does a day in the life of a pharmacy technician look like?

It’s very busy, starting with lots of phone calls as soon as we open. We process up to 500 prescriptions some days. It makes the day go by quickly. 

There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes, like calling the insurance company or doctor’s office. When customers get there, and a prescription isn’t ready, that doesn’t mean that we haven’t been running around, trying to get it for them.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Customer satisfaction. It’s a great feeling being a trusted healthcare professional that people can talk to and come to for help. I always put my patients first. My biggest thing is to keep them updated, so they know where they are in the process—being there for them with sympathy and empathy. I’m pursuing becoming a pharmacist, so it’s a field I really love and have a passion for the overall experience.

What is your favorite moment as a pharmacy technician?

I had one patient who has a hard time getting around, and he was out of refills on his prescription. It was a weekend, but I happened to know his doctor personally. I was able to get the medication authorized, but then my pharmacy didn’t have it in stock. His insurance preauthorization expired the next day, so he didn’t have time to wait for it. So, I drove over an hour to pick it up from another pharmacy that had it in stock.

Helping people makes the long days of working and being in school worth it. This award shows my passion for it.

Praise from customers

“Nicholas always exceeds customer service expectations. He is always very friendly and happy to help. He went out of his way on his time off to pick up a medication from another location, just so I could have my prescription before the weekend and pick it up a block from home. This is in addition to all the times he has gone above and beyond to resolve any issues I could possibly have—whether with the doctor’s office or with an insurance company. ”

“Nicholas always makes sure I am taken care of and is very thorough. He makes sure I know what I am doing with my medication and cares about my well being with such a bright smile and a shining personality.” 

“After a long day at the hospital I took my prescription to my local pharmacy, but the doctor forgot to sign it. Nicholas immediately dropped everything he was doing to get it taken care of, only to find out my prescription coverage had ended the day before. Nicholas got back on the phone to switch prescription and helped me save a total of $130. I truly thank Nicholas as it is always a pleasure dealing with him.” 

“Nicholas instructed me on the do’s and don’ts of my medication. He’s a standout, standup guy. I’ve never met somebody so kind and welcoming to complete strangers.”

“Nicholas is always at the counter greeting you with a great smile and a polite introduction. He will answer any type of question, or ask the pharmacist if he doesn’t know. He never rushes a customer and always has time to listen! He’s striving to become a pharmacist and has the dedication and passion to become one.”