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Dan Martinusen

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Q&A with Dan Martinusen - Provincial Director, Pharmacy

Where do you work?

I’m based in Victoria and I work for BC Renal.

How long have you been in renal?

20 years

What brought you to renal?

The collaborative team and complexity of the work.

Tell us about your training and education: 

I trained as a pharmacist at UBC, then as a hospital pharmacist at Lion’s Gate Hospital. 
I subsequently earned my advanced clinical doctorate at the University of Washington.

Share a patient story that stands out for you in your career:

A blind PD patient came to clinic very tired and ready to give up. Upon interview, I discovered that he was taking his furosemide at bedtime and was up all night going to the bathroom. His next visit after I corrected that, I found him much more upbeat and chipper. Sometimes it’s the simple things that make a big difference.

What do you like most about your work?

I can make a difference in both an individual’s life as well as a large group of patients through province-wide initiatives.

What is the biggest challenge in your work?

I would say it’s seeking to describe best practice and then implementing it.

How has renal care changed during your career?

We have many new medications and significant cost is associated with a few of them. So BC Renal is continually working to ensure we provide medications that are essential and effective in the care and treatment of patients with kidney disease across four pharmacy formularies. I’m more involved in contracts than I thought I ever would be.

What is something you have learned from your patients?

Patients are people too. Listen to them, appreciate their perspective and work with them to make their lives better.

What are you most likely to do on the weekend?

If I’m not puttering around the house, I might go on hikes, sail or surf.

What is your favourite travel destination?

Desolation Sound, BC

What is your favourite restaurant?

Likely a pub with live music



 
 

 

 

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