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VOICES OF MCKESSON

Advancing Care Through Advocacy

3 MIN READ TIME

Advancing Care Through Advocacy & Belonging

From patient‑facing pharmacist to enterprise‑level change‑maker, Dr. DeArcy Vaughan, PharmD, MBA, has built a career at McKesson defined by purpose, advocacy, and a commitment to elevating clinician voices. As Vice President of Pharmacy Retail Operations for Health Mart and a McKesson Advocacy Ambassador, she helps shape a healthcare system that works better for communities everywhere. This is her story of growth, connection, and impact. 

McKesson employee smiling

What drew you to McKesson?

Dr. Vaughan: I joined McKesson in August 2022 after reconnecting with a pharmacy school classmate on LinkedIn. He couldn’t stop raving about the culture, the team, and the leadership. He told me, “You need to apply.” He was right. From day one, I felt welcomed, supported, and energized by the people here. I’ve been grateful for the move ever since.

What does your role involve today?


Dr. Vaughan: As Vice President of Pharmacy Retail Operations for Health Mart, I lead strategies that empower independent pharmacy owners to thrive in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. My focus is creating impact at scale—advancing Health Mart’s leadership in patient‑focused care and helping community pharmacies strengthen their role as healthcare hubs.



What is your favorite part of working at McKesson?


Dr. Vaughan: The people. Truly. I work with principled leaders who combine expertise with empathy. Partnering with colleagues who care deeply about patients, providers, and one another is incredibly energizing.

McKesson employee smiling

Is there a moment that stands out as especially meaningful?

Dr. Vaughan: Receiving the Drug Store News Top Women in Health, Wellness, and Beauty Award in Chicago was unforgettable. Being recognized alongside industry leaders was an honor—but sharing that moment with my McKesson colleagues made it especially meaningful. It reinforced how powerful our collective impact is and how much we accomplish through collaboration.

How does your advocacy work make an impact?

Dr. Vaughan: Through the McKesson Advocacy Ambassadors Program, I help elevate patient and provider voices where policy decisions are made. Legislation directly affects access to care—whether it’s enabling essential pharmacist services, improving clinical trial diversity, or addressing drug shortages. Each conversation with lawmakers is a chance to advance health equity, support community pharmacies, and further McKesson’s mission of improving health outcomes for all.

You founded the Clinicians Collaborative group. What inspired that?


Dr. Vaughan: I launched the Clinicians Collaborative in 2023 to attract, support, and advance clinician talent across McKesson. Clinicians bring a unique, patient‑first mindset, but in large organizations, their voices can sometimes be underrepresented. This internal group helps create belonging, unlock leadership opportunities, and ensure clinician perspectives shape the way we serve communities. Our mission is simple: make McKesson the best place to work for clinicians.


What does McKesson’s mission mean to you personally?


Dr. Vaughan: As a pharmacist, I’ve seen firsthand how intimidating healthcare can feel. Today, my purpose is driving strategies that simplify access, empower providers, and ensure every patient receives the care they deserve. McKesson’s mission—advancing health outcomes for all—isn’t just a statement. It’s the reason I’m here.


What advice would you give someone considering a career at McKesson?


Dr. Vaughan: Do it—wholeheartedly. My only regret is not discovering McKesson sooner. The culture, growth opportunities, and sense of belonging here are exceptional. You see it in our long‑tenured employees and even in our “boomerang” team members who return. That speaks volumes about what makes McKesson special.

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Dr. DeArcy Vaughan’s story reflects the heart of McKesson’s culture: leadership grounded in care, belonging, and meaningful impact. Her journey shows how your voice—when supported by the right community—can shape the future of healthcare.

Ready to grow your career with purpose? Explore opportunities and apply today.