How To Get A Job As A Pharmacist
Pharmacists have an exciting and rewarding career. They are trusted by the public to give reliable and up-to-date advice regarding specific information concerning both prescription and non-prescription medications. They also provide support for client concerns such as smoking cessation, diet, exercise, and conditions such as asthma and high blood pressure. Because they keep meticulous records of client medications, Pharmacists can give advice while taking into account a client’s medical limitations and potential health problems.
There is at present a high demand for qualified pharmacists. The positions pay well.
Many Pharmacists work in community pharmacies while others work in hospitals, clinics, long term care facilities, pharmaceutical wholesale companies, the armed forces, and internet companies. Some work for the government. Pharmacists work in a clean, bright environment. Many work a regular forty hour week, while others work in shifts, including weekends and holidays.
To be successful, Pharmacists must have good communication skills, be patient, reliable, honest, detail oriented, well-organized, have an aptitude for science, and a desire to help others. Pharmacists must be physically fit as most of their day is spent standing. At times Pharmacist must handle dangerous products and stressful situations.
Pharmacists dispense medications as instructed by physicians. They discuss, with clients, the purpose of the medication, the dosage, possible side-affects and potential drug interactions. They make suggestions and give advice concerning over the counter medications and other pharmacy products. They help set up drug programs, keep client records, manage and control the operation of the pharmacy, and supervise staff. If in doubt, Pharmacists always refer patients back to their family doctors.
Education
A prospective Pharmacist must first complete at least two years of college which must include courses in humanities, social sciences, biology, chemistry, physics and English. When this is completed, the student must then apply for admission to an accredited college of pharmacy. where they must complete a four year course and obtain a PharmD degree to become a Doctor of Pharmacy.
Courses at the college of pharmacy cover such subjects as pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, professional ethics, and all aspects of drug therapy. Training includes practical instruction and experience under the direction of licensed Pharmacists. Some PharmD graduates take additional training through residencies and fellowships in order to work in clinical settings or other specializations.
All Pharmacists working in the United States must be licensed. To obtain a license, Pharmacist must pass a series of tests covering all aspect of pharmaceutical skills and knowledge. They are also required to spend a set length of time working under the direct supervision of a licensed Pharmacist. Most licenses are valid across all states.
Pharmacists with sufficient education and experience can advance to positions as supervisors, managers and owner-operators. Some also work in marketing, sales, and research.
