Dr. Heather P. Whitley, Pharm D., BCPS, CDCES, FCCP
Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy
Heather P. Whitley is a highly respected clinical pharmacist, educator, and researcher specializing in diabetes care and management. As a Clinical Professor of Pharmacy Practice at Auburn University’s Harrison College of Pharmacy, she has dedicated her career to advancing diabetes education, improving patient outcomes, and mentoring healthcare professionals.A Board-Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, Dr. Whitley has contributed extensively to diabetes research and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications. She is recognized for her expertise in diabetes pharmacotherapy, continuous glucose monitoring, and interdisciplinary approaches to patient-centered care.
Dr. Whitley actively engages in national initiatives, serving as a faculty member for diabetes education programs, presenting at leading conferences, and advising on professional development curricula for healthcare providers. Her leadership extends beyond academia, as she collaborates with national organizations and contributes to research on diabetes management strategies.Passionate about empowering patients and providers alike, Dr. Whitley blends clinical expertise with an innovative approach to diabetes education, ensuring that healthcare teams are equipped to provide optimal care. Her commitment to advancing diabetes treatment continues to shape the future of pharmacy and interdisciplinary healthcare.
DIABETES IN 2027: HUMAN-CENTERED CARE, SMARTER TECHNOLOGY, AND PRACTICAL STRATEGIES FOR COMPLEX PATIENTS
ACPE # TBD
Objectives:
1. Compare the pathophysiology of type 1 versus type 2 diabetes and describe diagnostic challenges in diabetes with focus on Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA).
2. Outline practical strategies pharmacists can use to improve diagnostic accuracy and early management of LADA.
3. Articulate the differences among available oral and injected anti-hyperglycemic medications and outline aspects of titration pearls and transitions between formulations, to improve safety and reduce hypoglycemia.
4. Evaluate medication regimens for patients with multimorbidity, polypharmacy, or high-risk features, integrating cardiovascular, kidney, weight, and hypoglycemia considerations into individualized treatment plans.
5. Describe the components of a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) and how a CGM differs from traditional Blood Glucose Monitoring (BGM).
6. Interpret CGM data using actionable pattern-recognition techniques and teach patients how to apply real-time glucose insights to daily decision-making, physical activity, and medication adjustments.
