What kind of responsibilities do pharmacists have?
Pharmacists have a number of responsibilities, including: • Compounding and dispensing medications, as prescribed by physicians and other healthcare providers; • Monitoring patients’ health and progress, and providing counseling and advice on drug therapies; • Maintaining and updating patient profiles, including medical histories, current medications, and allergies; • Ensuring medication accuracy and reviewing prescriptions for drug interactions, allergies, and other potential problems; • Providing guidance on the proper use of medications, including dosage, side effects, and storage; • Educating patients, healthcare providers, and other pharmacists on the safe and effective use of medications; • Participating in collaborative drug therapy management; • Working with insurance companies to ensure appropriate coverage for medications; • Keeping up to date on the latest developments in the pharmaceutical field; and • Supervising pharmacy technicians and other staff.
Other Questions about Pharmacist
- What qualifications do I need to become a pharmacist?
In order to become a pharmacist, you must complete a Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) degree program, which typically takes 4 years to complete. During the program, students take courses in pharmacology, pharmacy practice, medical ethics, biochemistry, and more. After completing the program, you may need to become licensed in the state you wish to practice in. Depending on the state, you may also need to pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE).
- How much schooling is required to become a pharmacist?
To become a pharmacist, you must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree program, which typically takes 4 years of full-time study.
- Can I become a pharmacist with an online degree?
Yes, you can become a pharmacist with an online degree. However, you must complete an accredited pharmacy program and pass the necessary licensing exams in order to practice pharmacy in the United States. Online programs are available, however, many of them require a certain amount of in-person instruction and clinical rotations. Check with the schools you are considering to make sure they meet the requirements set by your state's board of pharmacy.
- Are internships available for pharmacists?
Yes, internships are available for pharmacists. Many pharmacy schools offer internships and externships as part of their curriculum, and many employers offer internships for pharmacists. Hospitals, health systems, retail pharmacies, and research institutions are just a few of the potential employers that offer internships for pharmacists. Additionally, professional organizations, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), often have internships for pharmacists.
- Is the job outlook good for pharmacists?
Yes, the job outlook for pharmacists is good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of pharmacists is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Pharmacists will continue to be in demand as health care and access to medications become increasingly important.
- What is the average salary for a pharmacist?
The average salary for a pharmacist in the United States is approximately $128,090 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.