Behind the Counter, Beside the Bed: The Real World of Pharmacy

Ever wonder what truly happens after your doctor writes a prescription? In this episode of Medically Speaking, Dr. Eve Glazier sits down with oncology pharmacist Melissa Dinolfo, who devoted 42 years to pharmacy across retail, hospital, and cancer care, to reveal the unseen world of "the pharmacy behind the scenes."
From hand-filled prescriptions to modern, evidence-driven oncology, Melissa traces the evolution of pharmacy and explains how medications move from lab to patient. She breaks down how pharmacists dose safely, navigate insurance barriers, manage side effects, and advocate for patients, and why they remain some of healthcare's most essential partners. She also shares practical advice on how patients can work effectively with their pharmacist, ask the right questions, and make the most of their medications.
Whether you've picked up a prescription at a big-box pharmacy or received life-changing therapy in a hospital, this episode offers a new appreciation for the people who make your medicines possible and guidance for becoming a more empowered partner in your own care.
Podcast Credits for UCLA Health Medically Speaking with Dr. Eve Glazier:
• Host: Dr. Eve Glazier
• Executive Producers: Annie Krasnow, Michael Burke, Suzanne Koudsi Walker
• Producers: Niki Miller, Jessica Alabastro
• Creative Producer: Kanza Shaheen
• Associate Producer: Jennifer Feld
• Technical Directors: Adrian Cardoso, Andrew Stocks
• Editor: Tony Sweet
• Recorded at: Canella Media
Special thanks to our expert guests and the incredible staff across UCLA Health who make this podcast possible. A special thank you to Johnese Spisso, President of UCLA Health and CEO of the UCLA Hospital System, for her visionary leadership and support. We are also grateful to the patients and families whose stories inspire our work every day.
Produced by: UCLA Health Communications & Marketing
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.