Colleen Barthol, PharmD, BCCCP, FNCS, is a pharmacist at University Health in San Antonio, Texas, USA. She became a member of the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) in 2011. Her clinical interests include neurology, pharmacology, and trauma. Her hobbies include traveling and working out. Learn more about Dr. Barthol and her love for critical care.
What do you love about SCCM membership?
As a member of SCCM, I’ve found tremendous value in networking with like-minded practitioners who are passionate about advancing critical care. I also appreciate the opportunity to serve on multidisciplinary committees where I can collaborate with experts across different specialties and learn from their diverse perspectives.
Why do you love being in critical care?
I enjoy being a member of the multidisciplinary ICU team, where we work together to navigate complex pharmacotherapy decisions for critically ill patients. I am drawn to the acuity and complexity of this patient population and appreciate the opportunity to see the immediate impact of our interventions and care plans.
What are the top advances in critical care since you started your career?
Some of the most significant changes include the widespread adoption of evidence-based care bundles for sepsis, sedation, delirium, and early mobility along with advances in extracorporeal support such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The role of critical care pharmacists has also expanded significantly, with pharmacists now serving as essential members of the multidisciplinary team through medication optimization, antimicrobial stewardship, quality improvement, and education. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated these changes, highlighting the critical role that pharmacists play in adapting to evolving evidence, managing medication shortages, and caring for critically ill patients.
What industry trends excite you about the future?
I am excited about the role of AI in supporting rapid and accurate medication decisions in ICUs, where timely interventions are critical.
How did you get into critical care?
I spent a month in the Trauma ICU during my residency training. Although it was one of the most challenging rotations, I was drawn to the fast-paced environment and the meaningful impact a pharmacist could have on the care of critically ill patients. I particularly enjoyed caring for patients with traumatic brain injury and seizures, which ultimately inspired me to later pursue a career as a neurocritical care pharmacist.
What is your biggest professional achievement?
My biggest professional achievement is developing the PGY2 Critical Care Residency Program at my institution and serving as the residency program director for 15 years.
What advice do you have for those starting their critical care careers?
Critical care is one of the most demanding yet rewarding fields in healthcare. Don't be afraid to ask for help—it's impossible to know everything. Stay curious, ask questions, and learn from every patient and every member of the multidisciplinary team. Embrace every opportunity to learn and remember that becoming a great critical care clinician is a journey.
What do you see as the most challenging issue facing critical care?
Professional burnout is one of the greatest challenges facing critical care. High patient acuity, emotionally difficult situations, and ongoing staffing and medication shortages place tremendous strain on critical care practitioners.
What do you believe to be the top benefit of SCCM membership?
Membership in specialty sections
Connect with @Colleen Barthol on SCCM Connect!