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.

🎧 Tune in to learn how pharmacy really works and why pharmacists deserve a front-row seat in the conversation about your health.

Podcast Credits UCLA Health Medically Speaking with Dr. Eve Glazier