The Monthly Review spotlights a different URACer each month in a Q&A. This month it's Heather Valiton, one of URAC's Pharmacy Accreditation Reviewers.
TMR: When did you start at URAC and what brought you here?
Heather: I came to URAC 3 years ago this month. A good friend and colleague of mine informed me of the opportunity at URAC. So, after working in Specialty Pharmacy, I decided to try another aspect of specialty and learn more about accreditation.
TMR: What were you doing before you came to URAC?
Heather: I have spent most of my past 20 years as a pharmacist working with 3 large hospital systems in Minneapolis in their clinic, outpatient, and specialty pharmacies. I have also worked in retail pharmacy and dabbled with a small product development company.
TMR: Describe yourself in three words.
Heather: Family-focused; ever-learning; “small things” appreciator.
TMR: How do you like to spend your leisure time?
Heather: I spend a lot of time with my family. I try to visit my daughter in South Carolina, or plan adventures with her as often as I can. I miss her now that she lives so far away! I have an amazing little brother with special needs who I love spending time with. His smile always brightens my day. On a nice day, you can find me out gardening or strolling through the Arboretum photographing all the beautiful flowers and landscape. I enjoy getting together with friends, going to MN Twins games, and theater shows as well.
TMR: What’s your favorite restaurant?
Heather: Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego. I oblige my sister and brother-in-law to go every time I come to visit them. We have our 6 course “seafood throwdown”. It is delicious! But first we have to stroll down to the street to Born and Raised to get the best French 75 you’ve ever had!
TMR: What do you like to watch?
Heather: TV: Law and Order reruns (still have not seen all episodes yet), Flea Market Flip (I would love to learn how to restore furniture), Beachfront Bargain Hunt (a girl can dream), MN Vikings (Skol!) and MN Twins games.
Movies: Old faves include: The Burbs, Clue, Star Wars (the originals), all Rocky movies (yes, seriously Adrian), Today: Avengers, X-men, Les Mis, Greatest Showman, and pretty much any rom/com or mystery/thriller.
TMR: What kind of books do you like to read?
Heather: I like a good mystery. The last book I enjoyed (listened to) was The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins. Very inspiring. Now if I can just put it into action!
TMR: What's your favorite vacation spot?
Heather: A beach almost anywhere! We used to live near the beach when I was very young, so I guess I’m always just trying to get back to the ocean.
TMR: Are you a cat person or a dog person?
Heather: Both. We’ve always had dogs ever since I can remember, and occasionally cats too.
TMR: Tell us something about yourself that most people at URAC would not know about you.
Heather: I have been a proud Fanillow since age 8. He can write the songs!
