Kristen Watt

About Kristen

Pharmacy Innovator, Healthcare Leader, Community Advocate

Kristen Watt, BSc Phm RPh, ICD.D, is a pharmacist, entrepreneur, and healthcare advocate dedicated to reimagining what pharmacy care can be.

A multi-pharmacy owner, Kristen founded Kristen's Pharmacy in Southampton, Ontario in 2017, building it into a healthcare hub that goes far beyond traditional dispensing. Her patient-centered practice offers custom compounding, pain management, addiction treatment, and minor ailments services, and is distinguished by its culturally sensitive partnerships with local First Nations communities to support harm reduction and improve health outcomes.

As an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Waterloo, Kristen mentors PharmD students and coordinates clinical rotations. She also manages professional networks for pharmacy owners and develops educational resources on medication safety, deprescribing, vaccines, and pediatric care.

Kristen holds key leadership roles including Chair of the Ontario Pharmacists Association Board of Directors and past Board Member for PharmaChoice Canada, which supports over 1,000 independent pharmacies. As one of only two women on the PharmaChoice Canada Board of Directors from 2022 - 2026, she brings a vital perspective to governance while advocating for independent pharmacy sustainability. She previously also served as Chair of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Committee at Grey Bruce Hospice.

Her commitment to healthcare equity extends globally. As head pharmacist on medical aid trips to Zambia in 2022 and 2024, Kristen developed treatment protocols, delivered care to over 1,200 underserved individuals, and provided community health education. During COVID-19, she coordinated vaccine distribution, implemented Paxlovid prescribing programs, and adapted services to meet rapidly evolving community needs.

What clients, colleagues, and community members value most is Kristen's ability to blend clinical expertise with practical business sense and genuine compassion — always finding solutions that work in the real world, respect cultural contexts, and put people first.

Awards & Recognitions

Kristen’s contributions to pharmacy practice, public health, and community service have earned significant recognition throughout her career. These accolades reflect her commitment to healthcare excellence, innovation, and leadership.

  • 2022 Ontario Pharmacist of the Year
    Awarded by the Ontario Pharmacists Association for outstanding contributions to the profession and exemplary patient care. This prestigious recognition celebrates Kristen's innovative approach to pharmacy practice and her leadership during challenging times.

    2023 Bill Wilson Patient Safety Award
    Presented for Kristen's exceptional commitment to medication safety and her development of resources optimizing the use of COVID-19 therapeutics, particularly Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir (Paxlovid).

    Paul Harris Fellow, Southampton Rotary Club
    One of Rotary's highest honors, recognizing Kristen's exceptional service and commitment to her community. This prestigious award acknowledges her contributions through her pharmacy, community health programs, and advocacy work.

    Multiple-Time Nominee, RBC Women Entrepreneur Awards
    Recognized for her influence as a leader and innovator in pharmacy, highlighting her business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit in healthcare.

    Proud recipient of the 2025 Pharmacy Practice and Business "Raise Your Voice" Award Recognizing Kristen’s commitment to advocacy and innovation in community healthcare.

  • Kristen's expertise and innovative approaches have been featured in leading national publications:

    • The Globe and Mail - Consulted on pharmacy practice changes and medication access issues

    • Toronto Star - Featured for her pandemic response leadership

    • CBC News - Interviewed regarding pharmacy innovations and healthcare access

    • Various healthcare and pharmacy publications - Regular contributor on topics ranging from clinical practice to business leadership

  • Kristen's pharmacy has been recognized locally as a cornerstone of healthcare in the Saugeen Shores community, particularly for:

    • Leadership in vaccination programs

    • Development of accessible addiction treatment services

    • Creating culturally sensitive healthcare partnerships

    • Enhancing medication access during critical shortages

  • As one of only two women on the PharmaChoice Canada Board of Directors from 2022 - 2026, Kristen has been acknowledged as a trailblazer for women in pharmacy leadership. Her work has highlighted the importance of diverse perspectives in healthcare governance and decision-making.

    Kristen's selection as Chair of the Ontario Pharmacists Association Board of Directors further recognizes her strategic vision and ability to advance the profession through collaborative leadership.

  • Kristen's leadership in medical aid trips to Zambia in 2022 and 2024 has been commended for demonstrating exceptional pharmaceutical care in challenging environments and her commitment to global health equity.