Lanham, MD—June 27, 2019— Dr. Nicole Crase is based out of the Lanham office but works remotely in Ohio, conducting 340B Program Audits. She is responsible for bridging resources between pharmacy practice and 340B Program integrity under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) contract. Dr. Crase’s responsibilities include leading all auditor training and education. This includes providing technical assistance to auditors and HRSA’s Office of Pharmacy Affairs. In addition, she provides pharmacy practice expertise in quality assurance review. She is a pharmacist by trade.
Q & A:
Bizzell tackles projects that impact public health issues locally/globally. How does your project/role align with this mission/strategy?
My responsibilities at Bizzell are focused on 340B Program Audits. The intent of the 340B Program is “to stretch scarce Federal resources as far as possible, reaching more patients and providing more comprehensive services.” This program is so important to the underserved population. Prior to coming to Bizzell in 2017, I focused 13 years helping to oversee the 340B Program, providing direct patient care for my underserved patients on a community health center level, opening an In-House Pharmacy and serving as a HRSA 340B Peer Mentor for 2 Leading Practice Sites. I gave 24 national presentations, 1 state presentation, and 3 collegiate presentations on topics of the 340B Program. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to continue my work with this program on the auditing side on behalf of HRSA. My role allows me the opportunity to not only see how the 340B Program is positively impacting the people in my own community but also around the country.
How do you demonstrate Bizzell’s core values inside/outside of the organizations? Within your respective community? Core Values: Excellence; Integrity; Innovation; People First/Professional Development/Diversity; Collaboration; Service?
I always try to exemplify Bizzell’s core values in everything that I do by striving for excellence and being a kind human. I think each day presents a new opportunity to strive to become a better person. My passion for healthcare has been exemplified in my medical mission work in Jamaica and Colombia as well as my medical contributions at the Ironman World Championships. At the Ironman World Championships this past October, I had the opportunity, along with another medical staffer, to take one of the top pro finishers from the medical tent out to the finish line to see his wife finish (who is also a pro athlete). Having once completed an Ironman 70.3 myself, being able to assist athletes and stand on that finish line on the world championship stage was an amazing moment for me as a pharmacist.
Another passion on mine is working with individuals with special needs. They bring so much joy to my life. I especially enjoy volunteering at an event each year called Night to Shine which is a prom night experience for these individuals. I also serve as a running guide at races for a wheelchair bound friend with muscular dystrophy. I’ve raced competitively since 2008 but racing to get another person to the finish line is so much more rewarding.
What do you enjoy most about working at Bizzell?
The work is interesting and challenging. Each day presents new opportunities for learning and I truly enjoy working with my team. I also appreciate the opportunity to work for a company that truly cares about making a difference.
Profound Quote from Dr. Crase:
“Each day is new and different, but you focus on your passion to serve your community and leave space for the unknown which allows for a great work/life blend.”
