Martha Ndung’u, PharmD, assistant clinical professor of pharmacy practice, is passionate about promoting health literacy in minority communities. Originally from Kenya, she has traveled to 12 countries and 29 states. Her travels have shaped her as a health care professional and led her focus on global health.
“In my research, I try to analyze needs assessments to efficiently use and implement programs and resources to enhance the patient experience and increase health literacy in historically under-served populations,” said Dr. Ndung’u.
She has reflected on her experience as a pharmacy student immersed in the Namibian health care system, researched the self-care approach of diabetic patients in Honduras and studied health care perceptions among sub-Saharan African immigrants in the United States.
“In my research, I try to analyze needs assessments to efficiently use and implement programs and resources to enhance the patient experience and increase health literacy in historically under-served populations.”
— Martha Ndung’u, PharmD
She earned her doctor of pharmacy with an emphasis on global health from the University of Pittsburgh. She completed a PGY-1 primary care residency at Touro University in partnership with LifeLong Medical Care, a Federally Qualified Health Center in Oakland.
The opportunity to teach in a clinical setting led her to Pacific. What she loves about Pacific is the supportive, family-like environment. “I’m excited to work with students engaged in an accelerated program, which is a huge commitment on their part,” she said.
One of the first things one notices about Dr. Ndung’u is her sense of humor. She admits that activities requiring good hand-eye coordination are not her strong suit. Growing up she was an avid reader and she still enjoys spending time absorbed in a good book. She is also a runner and a foodie. Dr. Ndung’u has a passion for serving her community and has volunteered at the Alameda Community Food Bank.
By Anne Marie H. Bergthold
