Rana Papale PharmD, BCACP I Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Locations
In-House Clinical Pharmacist at Michigan Weight Loss Institute
Rana Papale, PharmD, BCACP is the In-House Clinical Pharmacist at Michigan Weight Loss Institute. She works alongside the physician and clinical team to support medication safety, access, and continuity of care. Importantly, Rana is a board-certified clinical pharmacist — not a retail pharmacist. Her role strengthens the precision and effectiveness of each patient’s treatment plan.
Background and Clinical Training
Rana earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Wayne State University and her BCACP board certification in Ambulatory Care Pharmacy. Before joining MWLI, she served as a Pharmacy Manager at CVS Health. She also practiced as an Ambulatory Care Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, where she focused on chronic disease management and medication optimization. As a result, her background makes her well-suited for her clinical role at MWLI.
Rana’s Role Within MWLI’s Care Team
Rana works closely with Dr. Rita Kathawa, MD and the clinical team to keep each patient’s medication plan safe and on track. Specifically, she supports prior authorization navigation, GLP-1 medication education, side effect management, treatment optimization, and adherence counseling. For patients on semaglutide or tirzepatide, her involvement helps ensure care stays coordinated and personalized.
Why an In-House Clinical Pharmacist Matters
Patients at MWLI often manage complex health histories and multiple medications. Therefore, Rana reviews the full picture — not just the prescription. She helps clear prior authorization hurdles, reduces access delays, and ensures treatment plans stay optimized over time. Her work is proactive, collaborative, and built around each patient’s needs.
Medications and Areas of Support
Rana supports patients across a range of medication needs. These include GLP-1 therapies, prescription weight loss medications, chronic disease medications, prior authorization support, medication safety review, and adherence counseling. In addition, her ambulatory care training helps her understand how each medication fits into a patient’s broader health plan.
Caring for Patients at MWLI
Rana supports patients at our Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms locations. Much of her work happens behind the scenes — keeping medications approved, accessible, and safe. However, in some cases, she works directly with patients on education, side effects, and treatment planning.
In select cases, patients with complex medication needs may benefit from a private one-on-one consultation with Rana. These specialized appointments are available on a private-pay basis when clinically appropriate.
Ready to work with a clinical team that takes your medication care seriously?
