Celebrating National Pharmacist Day: Honoring the Dedication of Boone’s Pharmacy and Hale County Hospital Pharmacist Michael Turner
Every year on January 12th, National Pharmacist Day shines a light on the essential contributions pharmacists make to healthcare. At Hale County Hospital, we’re proud to celebrate this day by recognizing the dedication and impact of pharmacists, especially Michael Turner, pharmacist at Boone’s Pharmacy, a cornerstone of pharmaceutical care in Greensboro, and consultant pharmacist at Hale County Hospital.
Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare. They ensure patients receive the correct medications, advise on proper usage, and monitor for potential interactions. Beyond filling prescriptions, pharmacists collaborate with physicians to optimize treatment plans and serve as accessible healthcare professionals for patients seeking advice or support. Their expertise extends to compounding medications, providing affordable alternatives, and promoting overall wellness in their communities.
Michael Turner exemplifies this commitment. Originally from Choctaw County, Michael now resides in Tuscaloosa County with his wife and children. Boone’s Pharmacy came to Hale County in response to the community’s need for accessible, high-quality pharmaceutical services. In September 2025, Michael will celebrate ten years with Boone’s Pharmacy and three years as a consultant pharmacist at Hale County Hospital. “Being from a small rural community, I was happy for the opportunity to serve in a rural area,” he shared.
What keeps him in this role? “It’s all about making a real difference in the health of the community and helping everyone live healthier, happier lives,” he explained. Michael’s passion for pharmacy stems from a lifelong exposure to healthcare—his mother is a registered nurse, and his grandfather was a chiropractor. His interest in math and science combined with mentorship from local pharmacists, including Willard and Evan McDonald, inspired him to pursue this career.
Michael finds the most rewarding part of his job to be the relationships he builds with patients and colleagues. “Having a small part in the milestones of everyone’s lives has been a blessing,” he said. He also emphasizes the importance of his team, noting that everyone from cashiers to pharmacy technicians are integral to making pharmacy operations run smoothly.
One of Michael’s most memorable moments highlights the profound impact pharmacists can have. “The most memorable moments are those that have ended in patients being able to have affordable access to medications which may have been out of their price point at other pharmacies or are not covered by insurance,” he recalled.
Despite their critical role, many people overlook the breadth of a pharmacist’s expertise. “Pharmacists do more than merely fill prescriptions,” Michael explained. “We double-check the medication your physician orders to make sure it won’t interact with what you are already taking and ensure dosages are accurate. We intercede on your behalf with your physician regarding the best treatment options and prescription refills. There is a lot that people don’t think about that goes into pharmacy.”
At Hale County Hospital, we are grateful for the exceptional care provided by Michael Turner and the entire team at Boone’s Pharmacy. Their dedication, expertise, and compassionate service make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients every day. On National Pharmacist Day, we celebrate and thank all pharmacists for their unwavering commitment to improving healthcare and fostering healthier communities.