What happens after transplant—when the surgery is over and real life begins?
In this episode of Living Transplant, we’re joined by Eugenia Chan, a pharmacist from the Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP) at UHN, to explore the critical (and often unseen) role pharmacy teams play in a patient’s lifelong transplant journey.
Unlike a typical pharmacy, TOP is fully integrated into the transplant program—supporting over 5,000 patients each year from the moment they leave the hospital and throughout their lives. From medication management to financial navigation, this team is a constant, trusted connection for patients.
Together, we unpack how this specialized care improves outcomes, reduces complications, and helps patients feel less alone in what can be an overwhelming experience.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why transplant pharmacy is differentHow TOP provides continuous, specialized care that goes far beyond dispensing medications.Medication adherence made easierThe impact of blister packaging, delivery across Ontario, and proactive dose management in helping patients stay on track, catching complications earlyHow frequent check-ins and strong patient relationships help pharmacists identify side effects and concerns before they become serious.Navigating medication fearsHonest conversations about side effects, what to expect, and how care teams adjust treatment to fit each patient’s needs.What transplant patients need to know about over-the-counter medications, supplements, and everyday risks.Breaking down financial barriersHow medication reimbursement specialists help patients access coverage, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and navigate complex insurance systems.The future of transplant pharmacyInnovations like blister pack automation, refill reminders, and text-based systems designed to make care even more accessible.
Links and Resources
Learn more about the UHN Transplant Outpatient Pharmacy (TOP): https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/TOP
Learn more about living organ donation: www.livingorgandonation.ca
Living Kidney & Liver Donation at UHN: UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre
Information Sessions for potential donors: givelifeuhn.eventbrite.ca
Becoming a living donor: https://www.uhn.ca/Transplant/Pages/become_living_donor.aspx
Kidney Foundation of Canada – Living Donation https://kidney.ca/Get-Involved/Be-a-Living-Donor
Trillium Gift of Life Network – Organ Donation in Ontario
https://www.giftoflife.on.ca
Each episode, we share patient stories about organ donation from transplant recipients and living donors, along with insights and education from leading medical experts. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a donor, or simply curious about the world of organ transplantation, you’ll hear expert advice and inspiring journeys of hope, resilience, and second chances.
About our Host
Candice Coghlan is the Education & Outreach Coordinator at the Centre for Living Organ Donation at the UHN Ajmera Transplant Centre. She is also a board member for the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. After she was diagnosed with kidney failure in her early 20s, she was on dialysis until receiving a transplant from her mother.
Have questions? Comments? Ideas for an episode? Please reach out to the Centre for Living Organ Donation at livingorgandonation@uhn.ca. Thanks for spending your time with us.
The views and opinions expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Toronto General or University Health Network.
