PHILADELPHIA — Karen Staniforth began her pharmacy career in 1982 in Johannesburg, South Africa, 8,000 miles from Rite Aid Corp.’s headquarters.

Though she is now chief pharmacy officer at Rite Aid, she never thought she’d actually become a pharmacist when she was younger. She had a Saturday morning job in a pharmacy selling perfume in high school but never saw herself dispensing medications. After finishing high school she was accepted to the Technikon Witwatersrand pharmacy school in 1979 only after losing a bet with her father that she would never be accepted. Notwithstanding her skepticism about her suitability for pharmacy studies, “Off I went and loved it,” she said.

Staniforth began working at Rite Aid in Seattle as a graduate intern in 1998 after moving to the United States. All of the roles she’s held since then have taught her that it is people that matter — coworkers and patients — regardless of the setting.

Karen Staniforth

She said her experience as a pharmacist in South Africa has given her a different perspective on her approach throughout her career. “Ultimately though, people around the world are remarkably similar, and while their circumstances may vary, their core health needs are the same,” she said, noting that, regardless of geography, people want access to quality medical advice and treatment, including vaccines, and pharmacists are uniquely positioned to provide those needs.

Throughout its operating area, Rite Aid’s commitment to providing convenient access to expanded clinical services is exemplified by the new dedicated Vaccine Center stores providing everyone an opportunity to walk in or schedule an appointment to get the vaccinations they need to protect themselves against the flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses, along with additional clinical services and advice.

“As a retail pharmacy deeply rooted in community care, our priority is to ensure our customers have convenient access to the essential immunizations they require at a time that best aligns with their lifestyle,” said Staniforth. “With the whirlwind of life and busy schedules, our dedicated pharmacists in these stores offer a seamless solution, empowering customers to proactively prioritize their health and safeguard their families year round.”

She also commented last year that there will always be a place for brick-and-mortar pharmacies: “Online companies will never be able to replace the service that we provide directly to our patients and customers. Immunizations have to be given in person, and our customers want someone they trust to provide that care. People talk about their relationship with their pharmacist, and nothing can replace that human connection.”