Pharmacy is the art and science of preparing and administering medications. Pharmacists fill a vital role in society as they dispense medications and assist clients in the safe use of medicines.
How do I become a pharmacist (Pharm.D.)?
A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) is required to become a pharmacist. Although admission requirements vary by program, most programs require at least two years of undergraduate study. That being said, some require a bachelor’s degree. Despite admission requirement differences, coursework including chemistry, biology, and physics are required across the board. In addition, plan on taking the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT).
Typically, a Pharm.D. program takes four years to finish; however, there are some programs that offer a three year option. Once in a Pharm.D. program, coursework includes pharmacology, chemistry, and ethics. Additionally, internships in various settings, like hospitals and drugstores round out the program.
Upon completion of your Pharm.D. program, two exams are required to get a license. Taking the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) tests pharmacy skills and knowledge; in addition, the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) or a state-specific exam tests your grasp of pharmacy law.
There are several certifications pharmacists may choose to complete. For example, the Board of Pharmacy Specialties offers specialties like nutrition support, oncology, and pediatrics, to name a few. Additionally, with more and more pharmacists administering vaccines, certification is required in order to do so.
What does a pharmacist (Pharm.D.) do?
Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare as they dispense medications and offer their advanced knowledge in the safe use of prescriptions. Additionally, pharmacists may offer wellness screenings, immunizations, and give advice on healthy lifestyle choices. Because pharmacists work with pharmacy technicians and interns, they oversee their work as well. Of high importance, pharmacists verify prescriptions won’t negatively interfere with other medications a patient is taking. Pharmacists will often consult with other healthcare professionals to make issue patient safety including physicians and nurse practitioners.
Furthermore, pharmacists have administrative tasks to perform. They keep records, fill out insurance forms, and work with insurance companies to ensure patients get the necessary medication. They are advocates for their patients.
The pharmacy profession requires high analytical skills while also being detail-oriented. Not only must they have a high knowledge level of various drugs and interactions, but they must also ensure the accuracy of the prescriptions. Great communication skills, both with patients, insurance companies, and prescribing medical professions are necessary. Additionally, pharmacists need excellent managerial skills as they oversee the work of pharmacy technicians and interns.
What is a pharmacist’s (Pharm.D.) salary?
The average salary for a pharmacist is $128,090 annually. Interestingly, pay among pharmacists is highest at general merchandise stores at $136,320. Conversely, pharmacies and drug stores offer the lowest pay, coming in at $125,910 a year.
Three of the five top-paying states for pharmacists are on the West Coast and offer a lucrative salary of at least $7,000 higher than the national average wage. Pharmacists seeking a higher than average income should look into jobs at outpatient care centers, where the average pay is $143,150!
What is the job outlook for pharmacists (Pharm.D.)?
While there may be a 3% decline in jobs due to an increase in mail and online prescriptions, there is anticipated growth in the hospital sector. This is due to a greater need for pharmacists to oversee medications and provide care and training like testing blood sugars and managing diabetes. Focusing on this care sector can provide good job opportunities!