Get to know Garrett Sipes, Keystone’s newest Pharmacist!
What led to you to becoming a pharmacist?
I always wanted to work in the healthcare field but knew I could never be a medical doctor. From an early age, pharmacy seemed to be a natural fit for my love of science and medicine.
What do you like about working in the pharmacy field?
I love that the practice of pharmacy has drastically changed in the past few decades. When I graduated pharmacy school it was not the norm for pharmacists to provide vaccines. As one of the most easily accessible health care professionals, pharmacists have helped provide a large percentage of vaccines nationally over the past five years. Administering vaccines is one of the many things that I love about working in pharmacy.
Where did you go to college?
I completed my undergrad and pharmacy school at the University of Pittsburgh. Along with completing my academic studies, I was a member of the marching band all six years that I attended college.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Along with administering vaccines, I love problem solving and helping simplify medication regimens. I have had a lot of experiences as a pharmacist but I love being able to help patients achieve their health goals and optimize their medications. I enjoy building relationships with my patients and getting to know them beyond just their medication profile.
Why did you choose to work at Keystone?
Keystone Pharmacy provides a different level of pharmaceutical care than what you will find at most pharmacies. Working at Keystone allows me to collaborate with providers more closely and spend more time counseling patients about their medications.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I have way too many hobbies. Some of them include running, reading, playing video games, and working on puzzles and crafts. I have four kids under 10 years old that we plan to continue to homeschool, so a lot of my time outside work involves spending time with them and enjoying time together as a family.
Where is your hometown and, if you are new to the area, what do you like about Franklin County so far?
Chambersburg is my hometown. I graduated from CASHS in 2005 and spent about a decade away, first at college and then in Saint Louis. I love Chambersburg and appreciate the diverse people and places in Franklin County. Since moving back, I’ve realized living here is a bit of a “choose your own adventure”: you can spend time hiking in the woods or strolling the streets of downtown. I also love that there are so many major metropolitan areas within a short drive; day trips to bigger cities are a great outing. I love South Central PA and am happy to be home.
What’s an interesting fact about yourself or something people might be surprised to know about you?
In the past two years my wife and I have been gathering people together to start an Anglican church. Rooted in ancient Christian rhythms of prayer and liturgy, we’ve been excited for the opportunity to grow community and prayerfully wait to see how God is present and at work in Chambersburg.
Welcome to the Keystone family, Garrett! Click here to learn more about Keystone Pharmacy.
