Joseph E. Lambson, PharmD, DABAT

As the director the of the New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, Joseph Lambson and his team use their medication and toxicology expertise to help patients navigate poison emergencies and drug information inquiries 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“When patients call our hotline, our pharmacists start by collecting information that helps us assess their situation in real time and determine if they’re safe to remain at home or if they need to go to an emergency room. If a patient is safe to stay at home, the pharmacist they’ve connected with will provide guidance and conduct follow-ups to ensure that they remain healthy until they’re out of the window of concern.”

When patients call our hotline, our pharmacists start by collecting information that helps us assess their situation in real time and determine if they’re safe to remain at home or if they need to go to an emergency room.”

As a result of their diligent work, Joseph estimates that nearly 80% of the calls his team handles do not result in trips to the emergency room – preventing costly hospital visits for patients and helping to reduce the strain on the hospital system.

If a patient does need to go to the emergency room, Joseph and his team of pharmacists continue to partner with the patient’s medical team to guide the appropriate measures needed based on what the patient was exposed to.

Joseph’s leadership within the Center extends to his role as an educator in the UNM College of Pharmacy.

“I teach within the pharmacy school and provide rotations for pharmacy students, medical students and residents. They’re learning in real time, by coming to the Center and learning what it’s like to manage patients that have been poisoned and require a trip to the hospital to receive medical treatment.”

I always remind my students that what we do for patients really makes an impact. When patients call us, they’re in a vulnerable place with the worst possible outcomes racing through their minds. Because of our expertise and care, they go from panicked to being completely reassured and informed of next steps.”

Joseph sees this as an integral part of his service to patients. To not only help people with their active medical emergencies, but to train the next generation of pharmacists to improve future outcomes.

“I always remind my students that what we do for patients really makes an impact. When patients call us, they’re in a vulnerable place with the worst possible outcomes racing through their minds. Because of our expertise and care, they go from panicked to being completely reassured and informed of next steps.”

For Joseph, being a trusted resource and guide to patients in an emergency is what it means to be your pharmacist.