Pictured: Whitney McFarland
Unsung Hero: Whitney McFarland
Meet Whitney!
As a full-time retail pharmacist and PRN inpatient pharmacist at Memorial Regional Health, Whitney McFarland helps ensure patients receive the right medications to support their health. From reviewing prescriptions to identifying potential drug interactions, Whitney works closely with patients and providers to make sure medications — including both prescriptions and over- the-counter products — work safely and effectively together.
For Whitney, helping patients understand and manage their medications is one of the most important parts of her role. “As pharmacists, we help make sure patients are taking the right medications for their conditions and that everything works together safely,” she said. “That includes looking at both prescription and over-the-counter medications.”
Whitney approaches each interaction with warmth and respect, knowing that many people who visit the pharmacy may not be feeling their best. “Being able to help patients navigate their healthcare journey with kindness and respect is the basis of my daily work,” she said. “Many patients that come to the pharmacy are not feeling well, so making sure you treat each person with respect and kindness makes everyone’s day better.”
Her interest in pharmacy began early. Whitney started working as a pharmacy technician when she was just 16 years old. After her first day on the job, she went home and told her mom she wanted to become a pharmacist. “I love being the first line and often the most accessible form of healthcare for patients,” she said.
Whitney joined MRH in June 2024 and is approaching two years with the organization. Before joining MRH, she spent 16 years as a pharmacy manager at Walmart. The transition to MRH has allowed her to focus more on what she enjoys most about the profession — helping patients. “This job has been much less stressful than my previous role and has allowed me to focus more on patient care,” she said.
Whitney says one of the best parts of working at MRH is the people she works with each day. She especially appreciates the support of her coworkers and supervisor, who have helped create a positive environment where patient care remains the top priority.
Outside of work, Whitney enjoys spending time in her garden and getting lost in a good book. Whether she’s tending plants or turning the pages of a novel, those quiet moments help her recharge and bring the same calm and thoughtful approach she shows patients each day.
The MRH Way emphasizes meeting people with warmth, respect, and a commitment to helping them navigate their healthcare journey. Whitney, thank you for the care and attention you bring to patients and your team at MRH.