2016 PharmD alumnus recognized for exceptional service to the community

“I treat others how I want to be treated,” he says. “I think, ‘If this were my mom, what would I do?’”

That remarkable personalized customer service earned him the 2020 COVID Cares Pharmacist Award from pharmacy discount service SingleCare.

As a Pharmacy Manager for CVS in Auburndale, NY, Yafai ensures all patients receive their medications with no barriers to treatment.

“Ultimately, it’s making sure we get the best outcome for everyone’s health,” he says.

He recalls a recent situation where one of his patients ran out of refills on several life-saving medications. It took several hours for him to get in touch with her doctor, but his perseverance paid off and the prescriptions were refilled, much to the patient's relief. This situation is something Yafai is experiencing more frequently these days.

“This year, because of COVID-19, I’ve been spending a lot of time tracking down physicians who aren’t operating their regular office hours,” he says. “For me, it’s all about customer service. It’s all about helping the patients with whatever needs they have.”