How to Be Pharmacist Specializing in Geriatrics - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 17, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The number of elderly individuals in the United States is increasing rapidly, and this has created a need for pharmacists who specialize in geriatrics. A geriatric pharmacist has the expertise to manage the complexities of aging, such as changes in metabolism, organ function, and drug absorption. This specialized area of practice requires knowledge of medications, their effects on the aging body, and how to modify doses and administer them safely.

By having a pharmacist who specializes in geriatrics, elderly individuals are able to receive appropriate medications and treatment plans that meet their specific needs. This can help improve the quality of life for seniors by reducing adverse drug reactions and optimizing medication regimens. geriatric pharmacists can provide education to both patients and other healthcare professionals on the safe and effective use of medications in the elderly population.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a pharmacist specializing in geriatrics is to obtain an undergraduate degree in pharmacy. This typically requires four years of study and coursework in biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and other related health sciences.
Pass the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT). After graduating from an accredited pharmacy program, applicants must pass the PCAT in order to gain admission to a pharmacy school. This is a standardized test covering topics such as reading comprehension, mathematics, writing, and verbal skills.
Complete a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree Program. A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree is required to become a licensed pharmacist. These programs typically take four years to complete and involve coursework such as biochemistry, pharmacology, drug delivery systems, and professional issues.
Gain Experience in Geriatrics. To become a pharmacist specializing in geriatrics, it is important to gain experience in the field. This can include internships in nursing homes or other healthcare facilities that specialize in elderly care.
Obtain a License. All states require pharmacists to be licensed before they can practice. To become licensed, applicants must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). This exam tests applicants' knowledge of pharmaceuticals and their ability to provide safe and effective patient care.
Consider Certification. To demonstrate their expertise in geriatric pharmacy, many pharmacists choose to pursue certification through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS). This certification requires applicants to pass an extensive examination and meet certain education and experience requirements.

Choosing a pharmacist who specializes in geriatrics can have a positive impact on older adults. Having a pharmacist who is knowledgeable in geriatrics allows them to provide the best care and advice tailored to each individuals unique needs. This specialized care can help reduce the risk of drug interactions and negative side effects, ensuring that medications are being taken as prescribed.

the pharmacist can provide guidance on lifestyle choices that will promote better health outcomes, such as diet and exercise. having a pharmacist who is knowledgeable about geriatrics can lead to better overall health for older adults, as well as improved satisfaction with their healthcare experience.

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Job Description

Geriatric Pharmacy Consultant
Geriatric Clinical Pharmacist
Geriatric Pharmacist Manager
Ambulatory Care Geriatric Pharmacist
Home Health Care Geriatric Pharmacist
Geriatric Outpatient Pharmacist
Long-Term Care Geriatric Pharmacist
Geriatric Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Geriatric Pharmacist Educator
Geriatric Home Infusion Pharmacist

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of medications and their effects on the elderly
Ability to assess medication regimens for efficacy, safety, and cost
Understanding of the physical and cognitive changes associated with aging
Ability to accurately interpret laboratory results and make appropriate recommendations
Knowledge of disease processes common to the elderly, including polypharmacy
Ability to provide appropriate patient and family education related to medications and aging
Ability to recognize signs and symptoms of drug interactions and drug toxicity
Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with other healthcare providers
Ability to advocate for elderly patients in the healthcare system
Understanding of legal, ethical, and cultural issues related to geriatric care.

A Pharmacist specializing in Geriatrics must possess a variety of knowledge and skills to provide optimal care to elderly patients. Having a comprehensive understanding of the aging process, geriatric diseases and drugs, as well as excellent communication skills are essential. Furthermore, the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously is a significant asset.

A Pharmacist specializing in Geriatrics should also be adept at noticing and addressing subtle changes in patient health, such as small increases in blood pressure or subtle changes in mental health, as these can be indicative of serious health problems. Furthermore, a Pharmacist specializing in Geriatrics should have strong interpersonal skills, as they will often be interacting with elderly patients and their families, who may have difficulty understanding complex medical information. these skills and knowledge are essential for providing high quality care to elderly patients and helping them manage their condition.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with geriatric patients?
How do you ensure that elderly patients receive the most appropriate medications?
How do you ensure that elderly patients are taking their medications properly?
What challenges have you faced when working with geriatric patients?
Are you familiar with the latest technological advances in pharmacology for geriatric patients?
How do you respond to changes in the treatment of geriatric population?
What strategies do you employ to provide patient education and counseling to elderly patients?
In what ways do you collaborate with other healthcare providers when caring for elderly patients?
What do you consider to be the most important aspects of providing care to geriatric patients?
How do you stay up-to-date with new developments related to geriatric pharmacology?

Common Tools in Industry

Electronic Medical Records System. A digital database that stores patient information and medical records (e. g. EHR software).
Medication Management System. A system designed to help pharmacists track and manage patient medications (e. g. RxSafe).
Drug Interaction Database. A database that provides pharmacists with information on the potential interactions between different medications (e. g. Lexi-Interact).
Clinical Calculators. Specialized software designed to help pharmacists calculate dosing regimens, drug interactions and other clinical information (e. g. MedCalc).
Drug Information Resources. Resources such as reference books, websites and databases that provide pharmacists with up-to-date information on medications (e. g. Micromedex).
Geriatric Assessment Tools. Tools developed specifically to help pharmacists assess and manage the unique needs of geriatric patients (e. g. NIH Toolbox).
Patient Education Materials. Materials such as brochures, handouts and videos designed to help patients understand their medications, side effects and other important drug information (e. g. Medication Guides).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP)
American Geriatrics Society (AGS)
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP)
National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS)
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA)
National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA)
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP)
International Society of Pharmacovigilance (ISoP)
American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP)

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Common Important Terms

Geriatric Medicine. The medical specialty that focuses on the health issues of elderly people.
Gerontology. The study of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging.
Geriatric Assessment. An evaluation of the physical, mental, social, and functional status of an elderly person.
Elder Care. The provision of care and support to elderly individuals.
Long-Term Care. Extended care services (including nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care) for elderly individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities.
Medication Management. The process of monitoring, evaluating, and adjusting medications for elderly individuals to ensure safe, effective, and appropriate use.
Dementia. A condition that results in a decline in mental functioning, including memory, communication, and other cognitive skills.
Falls Prevention. A set of measures used to reduce the risk of falls in elderly individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Geriatrics?

Geriatrics is the medical specialty focused on health care of elderly people. It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diseases and disabilities in older adults.

What do Geriatric Pharmacists do?

Geriatric pharmacists specialize in providing medication therapy management for elderly patients. They work with other healthcare providers to review medications, monitor drug interactions, and assess the appropriateness of drug therapies for elderly patients.

What qualifications are required for a Geriatric Pharmacist?

In order to become a geriatric pharmacist, one must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, and then complete a geriatric pharmacy residency program. Most states also require a pharmacist to be licensed in order to practice.

What is the average salary of a Geriatric Pharmacist?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Geriatric Pharmacist is $118,836 per year. However, salaries can vary widely depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What are the benefits of becoming a Geriatric Pharmacist?

Becoming a Geriatric Pharmacist provides an opportunity to work with elderly patients and help improve their quality of life. Additionally, it is a rewarding career with competitive salaries and excellent job prospects.

Web Resources

Geriatric Pharmacy Residency Program - pharmacy.umaryland.edu www.pharmacy.umaryland.edu
PGY2 Geriatric Pharmacy Residency | Texas Tech www.ttuhsc.edu
Geriatric Pharmacy Program - School of Pharmacy sop.washington.edu