Dr. Alvarez has led initiatives at Carilion Clinic that have resulted in expanded ambulatory services, a new specialty pharmacy and the region’s only 24/7 retail pharmacy. His leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic was pivotal, as he led the vaccine task force and ensured tens of thousands in southwest Virginia were immunized. Dr. Alvarez has driven innovation by implementing Omnicell dispensing cabinets, anesthesia workstations and automated outpatient dispensing systems. He also launched Carilion Clinic’s first pharmacist-led tobacco cessation program and developed an accredited community pharmacy residency. In tandem with system expansions, including a new cardiovascular institute and cancer center, he continues to serve patients directly as a practicing pharmacist.
