CHI’s Dr. Samuel James Makes His Mark in Pharmacy Services
Nov 27, 2024
Haga clic en la bandera en parte superior de la página para traducir al español
Pezé sou drapo anwo paj la pou Kreyol
Dr. Samuel James, Pharm-D, is one of Legacy Magazine’s 2024 South Florida’s Top Black Professionals.
When Dr. Samuel James learned he had been named one of South Florida’s Top Black professionals by Legacy Magazine, he could not believe it.
“I was surprised. It feels good to be recognized,” he said. “It’s a big thing when someone recognizes you as a top healthcare professional.”
As the Director of Pharmacy Services at CHI, Dr. James’ journey has been defined by dedication and hard work. He joined CHI in 2013 and made his way up the ranks. Dr. James started as a staff pharmacist before taking on the role of Pharmacy Manager for seven years. His progression at CHI reflects his commitment to his patients, his team and his dreams.
Dr. James grew up in Florida and had known he wanted to become a pharmacist since his sophomore year of high school.
“A couple of my family members were healthcare professionals,” he said. “So, they had a small influence on me, but I’ll just say that growing up I wanted to be involved in healthcare, and I found a path.”
Dr. James attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Florida and describes his time at the university as transformational, laying the foundation for the professional he is today.
“I had plenty of role models, people I would pattern myself after as far as teaching style,” he said. “I had a professor at FAMU, Dr. Thompson, who was very influential in helping me and making sure I did good.”
Through his professional experience working directly with patients and witnessing their needs, Dr. James learned the best practices and technologies to provide great care. His approach has always been patient-centered, striving to enhance outcomes while building a strong, collaborative team environment with staff.
When asked about what motivates him, Dr. James points out his desire to help patients and make a difference. He often still works directly with patients. He has known many for years, especially through programs like CHI’s warfarin clinic that provides education and support for patients on anticoagulation medication.
“One of the best things about working at CHI are the patients. If you interview our patients, they will tell you that we care,” he said. “That’s one of the things that I emphasize to my staff. Always make sure that patients know you really care about them.”
Looking ahead, Dr. James hopes to see the continued advancement of pharmacy technology at CHI. He is dedicated to keeping the organization’s pharmacy systems innovative to better serve the community.
Being named one of South Florida’s Top Black Professionals is a testament to Dr. James’ hard work, compassion and leadership. His journey serves as an inspiration to others in healthcare, showing the power of perseverance, a patient-first mindset and a commitment to excellence.
Dr. Samuel James (far left) with his pharmacy staff at the Doris Ison Health Center.
Stay updated on health news, local events, and more!