Chrisman named MMCer of the Month for March

Cary Chrisman, a pharmacist at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge, has been named the MMCer of the Month for March. In his job, Chrisman assists with patients’ medication needs through antibiotic stewardship, nutrition support, and blood glucose management. He has been at Methodist since 2002.

Chrisman is described by Chuck Ashley, director of Pharmacy, as an outstanding employee and clinician.

Chrisman received two nominations. One nomination said: “He is always right there when he is needed. He thinks ahead about what the next step could be, not only with medicine but with a patient’s disease process. That speaks volumes to me on how dedicated he is to the patient’s well-being.”

The nomination continues describing how Chrisman can stay calm in times of stress; he is always smiling and helpful, is willing to assist a lost family member, and takes time to explain medications to the nurses he works with.

Another nomination adds, “He is an amazing pharmacist! He goes beyond his call of duty to ensure his patients are given excellent care!”

The nomination describes how Chrisman continued working with a nurse throughout her entire shift to assess a critically ill patient’s pharmacological needs.

Ashley comments: “I continually receive comments from other departments about how helpful he has been in the care of a patient…Physicians also often let me know how helpful he has been to them in the care of a patient and how much they respect his opinion and expertise.”

As a nomination says, “Cary is knowledgeable, caring, available, quick, and a critical thinker. He is an asset to our hospital.”

When asked about receiving the distinction, Chrisman said, “It is refreshing to be part of an excellent, caring team of clinician at Methodist Medical Center.”

Chrisman lives in Oak Ridge with his wife Nancy. They have two daughters, Audrey (15) and Grace (16). Chrisman is an assistant professor in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the University of Tennessee and a member of ASPEN. He attends Christ Community Church. In his free time, Chrisman enjoys reading and spending time with his daughters.