HOW TO BECOME A PHARMACIST
Pharmacists are fundamental in individuals attaining and sustaining wellness by dispensing prescription medicines. If a career in the health care sector interests you, and your aim is to actively contribute to people’s well-being, you might consider this path. Recognize the prerequisite coursework and skills needed to become a pharmacist and clear the path to your goal..
The Roadmap to Becoming a Pharmacist
The path to becoming a pharmacist is outlined in these six steps.
Pursuing Post-Secondary Science Subjects
After high school, a minimum of two years of postsecondary study are typically required to be eligible for a professional pharmacy program.
Before enrolling in a PhD school, prospective pharmacists often finish four years of postsecondary education, earning a bachelor’s degree.
As a tertiary student, diverse subjects like biology, chemistry, and physics could be studied to satisfy most doctoral program application requisites. This can also nurture an enthusiasm for patient care and pharmacology.
Acing the PCAT
Before starting pharmacy school, aim to do well on the Pharmacy College Admission Test.
This uniform test comprises sections on writing, biological and chemical processes, critical and quantitative reading, totalling almost 200 questions and one writing prompt. This test is usually held a minimum of six times annually.
Securing a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree
Once the PCAT is aced, applications can be sent out to Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) programs, which generally span two to four years. Aim for a professional degree program that necessitates an internship to secure hands-on work experience.
Nurturing Vital Skills
Key skills like analytical thinking, basic computer literacy, and attention to detail are essential to thriving as a pharmacist. Emphasis can also be given to communication and interpersonal skills for effective interactions with patients and physicians.
Securing a License
A state pharmacist license is required prior to working as a clinical pharmacist. Pharmacists must pass the Multi-state Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam and the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam in addition to completing an internship in each state. If you need to administer vaccinations, a separate licensing course from the American Pharmacists Association can be completed.
Undergoing Further Training
Choice typically lies between a one or two-year residency program or an on-the-job training scheme.
What is a Pharmacist’s Role?
Pharmacists dispense prescriptions written by doctors and guide users on safe medication practices. They also offer rudimentary health care services and education. A pharmacist’s responsibilities encompass:
- Filling prescriptions written by doctors for customers
- Assessing other medications customers consume to check for possible harmful interactions
- Instructing customers on medication usage and providing written directions
- Discussing potential side effects of medications
- Providing flu, COVID-19 and other vaccinations at customer request
- Handling customer insurance claims and filling out digital or paper forms to receive prescription payments from insurance providers
- Facilitating customer discussions on diet, exercise, stress management and other lifestyle health aspects
- Recommending substitutes or generic variants of prescribed medicines for customers
Estimated Average Wages for Pharmacists
Depending on experience and region, a pharmacist’s annual compensation might range from $94,848 to $170,252, however the average compensation is around $127,075.
Prerequisites for Pharmacists
Employers typically mandate a doctoral qualification, a valid license, on-the-job training, and essential skills for pharmacists. Here’s an in-depth look at a pharmacist’s requirements:
Education
It’s mandatory for all pharmacists to hold a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Doctoral courses usually span four years, besides the undergraduate education completed beforehand. These programs that cover subjects i.e prescription management, biopharmaceuticals, toxicology, pharmacy law & ethics.
Internship is also a standard part of Pharm.D. programs, offering practical professional exposure. Pharmacy interns usually earn a stipend, with the duration dependent on the Pharm.D. course and regional rules.
Training
Someone who want to become a independent most pharmacists finish a professional course. Two typical options include:
In-House Training Program
Acquire the skillset to handle your organization’s computer system, familiarize yourself with your employer’s workflow, and accustom yourself to their rules and guidelines.
Completing a one- or two-year residency program. This offers professional exposure, and is often a necessity if you target a specialized role, such as geriatric care or clinical pharmacy.
Licenses
Gaining a credential from your state’s licensing board is vital to practice as a licensed pharmacist. For license one needs to complete internships & two exams.
North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam
This competence assessment confirms your understanding of prescribed drugs and pharmacy skills.
Multi-state Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam
This state-specific test evaluates your understanding of your state’s pharmacy laws.
You may need further credentials in order to carry out specific responsibilities as a pharmacist.
. For vaccination administration, for instance, most states necessitate completion of the Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery program by the American Pharmacists Association.
Skills
Certain skills play a pivotal role in a pharmacist’s successful practice:
Attention to Detail
Processing prescriptions perfectly to safely provide effective medicines to customers requires meticulous attention to detail.
Analytical Thinking
Analyzing customers’ needs and potential drug interactions is the key to keeping patients safe.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is essential whether it’s explaining medication usage to a customer, verifying insurance details with a provider or seeking information from a doctor. Clarity in oral and written expressions is crucial.
Computer Literacy
Computing aids are common in pharmacies to access prescription information, authenticate insurance details and alter client records. Familiarity with pharmacy software systems and the ability to conduct basic searches and data entry is a prerequisite.
Problem-Solving
Issue-resolving skills offer alternatives and effective pharmaceutical solutions when patients experience side effects due to drug interactions with food or other medicines.
Teamwork
As a member of a patient’s healthcare team, a pharmacist must have outstanding teamwork abilities.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the typical work environment for pharmacists?
Standing and walking form major chunks of their workday as they fill prescriptions and advise customers. Pharmacists utilize computers to process prescriptions and update patient details, telecommunication to liaise with doctor’s offices and insurance carriers. Some pharmacists serve within specialized health care establishments like hospitals or the pharmaceutical industry.
What does a pharmacist’s work schedule look like?
Pharmacists must work within their pharmacy’s operational hours. While some observe a traditional nine-to-five schedule, others work on weekends or evenings. Those serving at 24-hour pharmacies may occasionally work night shifts.
How frequently must pharmacists renew their licenses?
While some states necessitate annual license renewals for pharmacists, rules differ by state. Most states mandate pharmacists to earn continuing education credits to maintain a current license.