Alexandria

Alomere Health is regional health system that serves the community of Alexandria, Minnesota and the surrounding central Minnesota region. Accredited by the Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP), Alomere Health offers a Level III trauma center, a state-of-the-art surgical center, and a full-service medical care. Joining the ranks of the Top 20 Rural Hospitals in the Nation, as recognized by The National Rural Health Association, Alomere Health stands out as the sole Minnesota hospital to achieve this prestigious distinction.

Trumm Drug is a family-owned independent pharmacy group that has been a healthcare cornerstone in central Minnesota for over 70 years. The pharmacies offer full-service retail pharmacy, long-term care, medication synchronization, vaccinations, wellness programming, and point-of-care testing. Additionally, a standalone Durable Medical Equipment Supply store serves the area with a wide array of medical supplies and mobility devices to assist with daily living. With strong ties to local providers, public health, and community organizations, Trumm Drug plays an active leadership role in local healthcare advancement. Students will be exposed to innovative patient care models with a personal touch.

Katie Becker, PharmD (Clinical Pharmacist, Lead Preceptor, Alomere Health Hospital)
Katie graduated from Minnesota State University of Moorhead in 2009 with a degree in biology and then from the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy 2013. After graduating, she completed a PGY1 residency at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center.  Katie has been at Alomere Health since 2016. Her clinical interests include oncology, medication safety, and precepting students. Katie enjoys spending time with her family. She enjoys swimming, boating, golfing, and spending time outdoors.  

Kellie Manderschied, PharmD, BCPS (Clinical Pharmacist, Alomere Health Hospital)
Kellie graduated from North Dakota State University – College of Pharmacy (class of 2018) followed by completing her PGY1 Residency at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. Following residency, she worked as a medical/surgical clinical pharmacist at Sanford, Fargo before moving to Alexandria, Minnesota area.  Now practicing as a clinical pharmacist for Alomere Health, her clinical interests include antimicrobial stewardship and emergency care. Outside of work, Kellie enjoys spending time her with husband and two dogs – enjoying all things Minnesota has to offer!

Aaron Finley, PharmD (CEO & Lead Preceptor, Trumm Drug Inc.)
Aaron has led Trumm Drug since 2018, bringing both business acumen and clinical vision to the organization. A 2002 graduate of the University of Minnesota, Aaron is deeply committed to the sustainability of rural pharmacy and mentoring the next generation of healthcare leaders.  Aaron provides students with a comprehensive view of independent pharmacy—combining patient care, operations, leadership, and advocacy. He believes in immersing students in real decision-making and community engagement. He particularly welcomes students seeking long-term relationships with rural healthcare.  When not leading the business, Aaron enjoys traveling for epic hiking, music, lake time with family, advocating for pharmacy reform, and restoring the community’s trust in independent healthcare services.

Alomere Health Hospital (Acute Care APPE: 5-10 weeks, Institutional APPE: 5 weeks, Elective APPE: 5 Weeks)

• Rotation and learning experiences will be primarily at Alomere Health Hospital. Students will work in all areas of pharmacy, including both inpatient and outpatient services. Students will be involved in all aspects of the day-to-day operations.
• Possible elective opportunities include oncology, medication reconciliation, and administration.
• Multiple shadowing opportunities are available including emergency medicine, cardiac rehab, wound care, respiratory therapy, surgery, and many more.
• Onsite Hours Monday – Friday 6:00am – 2:30pm, 7:00am-3:30pm
• Dress Code: Scrubs provided and laundered.

Trumm Drug Downtown Alexandria (Ambulatory Care APPE: 5 weeks, Community APPE: 5 weeks, Elective APPE: 5 weeks) 

• Students will gain experiences across Trumm Drug’s locations in Alexandria, Glenwood, and Parkers Prairie. Students will primarily work from one core location in Alexandria with periodic days at other sites to explore varied workflows and populations. Each student is assigned projects aligned with their interests and site needs.  Core learning themes include:
  • Chronic disease state management
  • Medication synchronization and MTM
  • Immunization delivery and patient education
  • LTC services and compliance packaging
  • Pharmacy operations and inventory management
  • Independent pharmacy ownership and advocacy
• Patient population served:
  • Predominantly older adults in rural communities
  • English-speaking with growing immigrant groups
  • Chronic conditions and polypharmacy
  • Socioeconomically diverse with mental health needs
• Logistics:
  • Hours of operation: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM (on site times may vary)
  • Travel: Required yet minimal
  • Dress Code: Business casual with white coat optional
  • Tips: Bring a strong work ethic, engage with patients, take initiative

• Hotels and seasonal resorts are options in Alexandria
• Trumm Drug patients and staff have rental units available at times.
• We will gladly advocate for and/or facilitate any requests for free, reduced rates or additional housing support on a case by case basis.