Earl Hinricher, RPh, is the new director of pharmacy for Huron Regional Medical Center (HRMC), according to Jake Redden, DHSc, MHA, MPH, FACHE, vice president of quality and support services for HRMC.
Hinricher, who has worked as a lead pharmacist for HRMC since 2004, began his new role April 29. He succeeds Holly McKillop, RPh, who recently retired after serving as pharmacy director for 33 years.
Hinricher directs, plans and evaluates the activities of HRMC’s pharmacy by establishing standards and objectives for optimal pharmaceutical service. He and HRMC’s team of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians work closely with physicians and nursing staff to ensure medication is provided safely to patients and drug interactions are avoided.
“Earl brings a wide breadth and depth of experience and knowledge to his new role,” said Redden. “I look forward to working with him and the pharmacy team to continue delivering quality and safe medication service to our patients.”
Hinricher has extensive healthcare and leadership experience. Prior to joining HRMC, he was the clinic administrator and pharmacy manager at Huron Clinic and Pharmacy for 20 years.
“I am honored to lead our experienced pharmacy team and look forward to working with our physicians and nursing staff to continually find ways to provide exceptional care to our patients,” said Hinricher. “The value of local medical care in our rural community is so important, and I’m committed to doing all I can to keep HRMC accessible to the community.”
Hinricher earned a bachelor of science degree in pharmacy from South Dakota State University (SDSU) in 1980 and also completed a residency program with McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. Throughout his professional career, he has engaged in numerous leadership and pharmacy-related educational opportunities, including as a preceptor for SDSU College of Pharmacy and has been a valued mentor to many students in that role.
In 2014, the South Dakota Pharmacists Association (SDPhA) honored Hinricher as the recipient of the Bowl of Hygeia Award for outstanding community service. He was involved with SDPhA from 2006 to 2011, serving in various positions including secretary/treasurer, vice president, president-elect and president. He also previously served as president of SDPhA’s Huron District.
Hinricher also supports his community and church and has served as a healthcare representative on the People’s Transit Board and a leader in Huron’s Rotary Service Club and Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
He and his wife, Melanie, live on a farm near Forestburg. In his spare time, he enjoys working with livestock and remodeling homes
(HRMC)