2026 I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards Finalist
Chelsea Palmer
Pharmacy Technician Coordinator, CPhT-Adv, CSPT
Munson Healthcare — Cowell Family Cancer Center
Michigan, USA
Bio
Her Impact Story
I assisted with the formation of one of the first Cancer Drug Repository Programs in the state of Michigan. I created the framework for receiving donations, storing, and record keeping for this program at Munson Healthcare and collaborated with YesRx, as the non-profit launched the nation’s first ever statewide Cancer Drug Repository network. To date, Munson Healthcare’s program alone has received well over $7 million in donations and $3 million in dispensed products.
Quotes & Perspective
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Personal Quote
We need to identify barriers to patients getting what they need and break them down.
What I.M.P.A.C.T. Means to Her
I.M.P.A.C.T. is shining light on the opportunities that Pharmacy Technicians have to make a meaningful difference on so many aspects of healthcare. The field has grown so much over the years and this career can truly be anything you want to make of it.
What First Drew Her to This Work
I am passionate about every person having access to the medications they need. Having worked directly with patients for nearly two decades, I have seen the devastating consequences of the barriers that prevent people from getting vital medications. Establishing and maintaining the Cancer Drug Repository program has been the most important and fulfilling part of my career so far. I cannot wait to continue to work for better medication access for all.
A Moment She's Most Proud Of
I am so happy anytime the repository is able to provide medications to those in need. Whether the dispensed dose lightens a financial burden, prevents a delay in treatment, or bridges a gap in therapy.
Advice for Other Pharmacy Technicians
I would say to try a variety of roles until you find one that “clicks”. The roles available to Pharmacy Technicians have been rapidly expanding. This allows you to hone in on what you are truly passionate about. Whether it be community pharmacy, compounding, patient assistance/access, information systems, education, and on and on… the opportunities are endless.
Key Takeaway
I hope that the take away is that patient advocacy is the most vital part of healthcare. For technicians, this is questioning something that “just doesn’t seem right”. It is calling a doctor or insurance company on behalf of a patient. It is raising concerns about a patient’s compliance and what barriers are behind it. A passion for advocacy could end up snowballing into systemic changes whether within your pharmacy/health-system or on a larger scale.
Her Impact Story
Links to Feature
Voting is Open
Support Chelsea Palmer
in the 2026 I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards
Cast your vote, then join the LIVE Online Pharmacy Technician I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards Ceremony on RXTech Day, October 20, 2026.
Voting closes September 30, 2026