Cassie R. Heffern, PharmD, BCACP (cassie.heffern@spiracare.com), is an ambulatory care pharmacist and manager at Spira Care in the Kansas City area. She earned her PharmD from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2011 and completed both a postgraduate year 1 residency and an ambulatory care PGY2 residency at CoxHealth in Springfield, Missouri. She subsequently served as the PGY2 ambulatory care residency program director at CoxHealth for eight years. Heffern has over 12 years of experience as a primary care and population health pharmacist within the CoxHealth and Saint Luke’s health systems, practicing under collaborative practice agreements and managing chronic disease states. She has been board-certified in ambulatory care pharmacy since 2013. A dedicated educator, Heffern has precepted more than 165 learners, including student pharmacists, pharmacy residents, and family medicine residents. She is actively involved in professional leadership, currently serving within the ASHP Section of Ambulatory Care Practitioners as a member of the advisory group on clinical practice advancement and having previously served on—and chaired—the Educational Steering Committee. She has served one year on the Commission on Affiliate Relations. She is also the immediate past president of the Missouri Society of Health-System Pharmacists (MSHP), where she has held multiple board and committee roles. Heffern is a frequent speaker for ASHP webinars, podcasts, and MSHP meetings. Outside of work, she enjoys supporting and coaching her two children’s athletic activities with her husband.
Meet Cassie R. Heffern
My leadership philosophy is grounded in my experience as an ambulatory care pharmacist and residency program leader who has spent her career advancing patient-centered, longitudinal care. I believe ambulatory care pharmacists are essential to improving outcomes for patient populations and strengthening healthcare teams through collaborative, evidence-based medication management.
Having practiced across primary care, population health, and health system-based ambulatory models, I recognize the diversity of practice environments represented within the Section of Ambulatory Care Practitioners. I believe section leadership must intentionally support pharmacists across these settings by offering practical resources, relevant education, and opportunities for meaningful engagement that translate national strategy into day-to-day practice.
My leadership approach emphasizes inclusivity, mentorship, and service. Through years of residency program direction, precepting, and professional service, I have seen the value of developing pharmacists at all career stages and creating pathways for emerging leaders to contribute. Serving as President of the Missouri Society of Health System Pharmacists further strengthened my commitment to transparent leadership, member engagement, and sustained organizational impact.
Practice sustainability and advancement are central to my philosophy. Ambulatory care pharmacists continue to face challenges related to workload, reimbursement, and role clarity. I believe the section should serve as a forum for innovation—highlighting best practices, supporting workforce well-being, and aligning closely with ASHP advocacy efforts. By listening to members, fostering collaboration, and ensuring continuity of section initiatives, I am committed to advancing ambulatory care pharmacy and supporting ASHP members in delivering high quality, equitable care.