Pharmacists

You may be surprised to learn that pharmacist as career option is beyond retail pharmacy jobs. With the right prescription of education and training you can jump start your career in different settings- hospitals, research institutions, government health offices, health insurance companies, pharmacy and medical schools, advertising agencies, big financial firms, and of course, pharmaceutical companies.

Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians

These occupations share the same work environment and some of the same duties, but differ dramatically in responsibility, education, and wages. The pharmacist is ultimately responsible for the technicians, has at least seven years of education and training, and can demand high wages. The pharmacy technician has a much lower degree of responsibility, no standardized required education and training, and gets considerably less compensation than a pharmacist. Which is the better choice? Both are in high demand. Ultimately, it depends on an individual's preferences and career goals.

Skills Required to be Pharmacists

Efficient:  Pharmacists must provide safe medications efficiently. They should evaluate customer’s need, evaluate the prescriber’s orders, and have extensive knowledge about specific medicine.

Interpersonal Skills: Pharmacists frequently offer advice to customers. They might need to explain how to take a medicine and need to offer clear direction to pharmacy technicians and interns so good communication skills comes handy for them.

Detail oriented: Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the prescriptions they fill, because improper use of medication can pose serious health risks.

Managerial skills:  Pharmacists, particularly those who run a retail pharmacy,  must have good managerial skills, including managing inventory and overseeing a staff.

Role of Pharmacists

  • Receive a new prescription order verbally from physician/doctors.
  • Perform identification, evaluation, interpretation, and clarification of a prescription.
  • Verify the prescription before release to the patient.
  • Consult with a patient regarding a prescription or non-prescription drug.
  • Perform a professional consultation with any physician/doctor.
  • Select a drug product to dispense.
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