We Are the MUHC: celebrating our Pharmacy Technicians
The role of a pharmacy technician is essential: ensuring quality control at every step of the medication-use process. From the moment a medication leaves the central pharmacy until it reaches a care unit, everything must be accurate, ready to use, and safe for the patient.
Over the years, the role of pharmacy technicians has evolved substantially. The MUHC team has expanded and adapted to the needs of all clinical disciplines. Thanks to their contribution, pharmacists are able to delegate part of their workload and dedicate more time to direct patient care.
To mark National Pharmacy Technician Day, celebrated in Canada on October 21, we are highlighting the inspiring journey of Mélissa Despins, a pharmacy technician at the Glen site.
Mélissa has been with the MUHC for 25 years. She began her career at the Montreal Children’s Hospital (MCH) back when it was located on Tupper Street. When the hospital moved to the Glen site, she adapted to a new reality: a larger team and centralized operations now serving pediatrics, adult medicine, and cancer care.
“I started at the old Montreal Children’s Hospital, and in 25 years, I’ve witnessed all the changes the MUHC has gone through,” she says proudly.
When asked what the slogan ‘We Are the MUHC’ means to her, Mélissa replies:
“It goes without saying that after 25 years, the MUHC is a big part of my life. My daughter also received care at the MCH when she was younger. Maybe it’s because of my connection to pediatrics, but when I think of the MUHC, I picture a child being discharged from the MCH. What a source of joy. It makes me feel like I’ve helped in some way!”
Since 2021, the profession has entered a novel chapter with the introduction of a technical pharmacy program at the CEGEP level. And at the MUHC, several pharmacy assistants have completed additional training to become certified technicians. Demand remains high—a clear sign that this rapidly growing profession continues to evolve in step with the needs of the hospital setting.