What sets ARTARx apart from other pharmacies? It all starts with our dedicated and knowledgeable pharmacy team.
Meet Giselle Sonico, one of the friendly faces you may have seen working behind the counter at ARTARx. A graduate of the Pharmacy Technician program at CDI College, she brings both technical expertise and a genuine passion for patient care. Since joining the team in 2024, Giselle has made it her mission to help patients feel heard, supported, and empowered in their health journeys as a Patient Liaison.
We sat down with Giselle to learn more about her role, what a typical day looks like at ARTARx, and how her commitment to personalized service is making a difference for our members.
What drew you to the pharmacy field?
I’ve been working in pharmacies for fifteen years now. I originally went into this field when I could no longer work as a medic, so I was looking for opportunities where I could continue to have a hands-on role in patient care.
What is the role of a patient liaison?
We act as a bridge between the pharmacist and the patient and provide interventions, if need be. Similar to a Pharmacy Technician, we assist in handling prescriptions, ensuring that medications are correct and entered properly, flagging any discrepancies, and answering any questions that patients may have. We also educate patients on their health care devices including diabetic supplies, inhalers, and AeroChambers, just to name a few.
How is ARTARx different from other pharmacies you have worked in?
The free home delivery service for patients who have accessibility issues is unique. I also receive a lot more questions about insurance than I’ve had in past roles, where I would just call insurance companies for more information about a patient’s coverage. But now I have the ARTA benefit plans ingrained in my head!
How is working at a more senior-focused pharmacy different than your past roles?
Serving primarily older adults has been a valuable experience and I’ve learned a lot in my time here. Their healthcare needs and medication regimes are usually more complex, so I’ve become well-versed in those areas. Coming from a different generation, understanding their perspectives and experiences is important when taking a thoughtful approach to their care. I also appreciate the opportunity for more face-to-face communication with our patients, which allows us to stay on top of their health regimens and make adjustments when necessary.
What do you want patients to know about ARTARx?
Our team has prescribing pharmacists who can assess a variety of common health conditions, so if you can’t get in to see your doctor right away, you can come speak with someone on our team. ARTARx is a walk-in pharmacy, which means you don’t have to make an appointment ahead of time, even for vaccinations or travel clinics. This can be helpful for snowbirds who might be on a time crunch and unable to see their doctor before travelling outside of the country. We also carry OTC (over-the-counter) medication, and if there’s something specific that you’re looking for and we don’t have it on the shelf, we can order it for you.
What do you enjoy most about being a Patient Liaison?
I enjoy getting to know patients on a more personal level – they share a lot of funny stories!
Looking for more wellness advice?
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