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

Oct 29, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The rise in the number of people using prescription medications has had a direct effect on the growing demand for pharmacists. Pharmacists are a specialized group of healthcare professionals who play a vital role in the delivery of health care services, from dispensing medications to providing patient education and counseling. Their expertise is essential for ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate medications, in the right dosages and at the right times.

As a result of the increasing demand for pharmacists, more educational programs have become available to meet the growing need. These programs are helping to produce a larger number of qualified pharmacists who are better equipped to provide the high-quality care that patients need and deserve.

Steps How to Become

Complete a Bachelor's Degree Program. To become a pharmacist, you must first complete a Bachelor's degree program. Programs in pharmacy typically include coursework in pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, medical ethics, anatomy, physiology, and other health-related topics.
Pass the PCAT Exam. To be accepted into a pharmacy school program, you must first pass the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT). This is an exam that tests your knowledge of the sciences and your ability to apply that knowledge to the practice of pharmacy.
Enroll in a Pharmacy School Program. After passing the PCAT, you must then enroll in a four-year Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D. ) program at an accredited college or university. During your time in this program, you will learn more about pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, drug interactions, patient counseling, and other related topics.
Obtain a Pharmacy License. Once you have completed a Pharm. D. program and passed the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX), you can then apply for a pharmacy license in your state. The requirements for licensure vary by state, but you will generally need to take and pass the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE) and any other state-specific exams.
Find a Job. After obtaining a pharmacy license, you can then start the process of finding a job as a pharmacist. Many pharmacists work in retail pharmacies, while others may work in hospitals or for pharmaceutical companies. You can also pursue a specialization in a certain area of pharmacy such as nuclear pharmacy or geriatric care.

When it comes to reliable and efficient pharmacy services, there are a few key factors to consider. First, having experienced and knowledgeable pharmacists is essential. Pharmacists should have the necessary qualifications and expertise to provide accurate advice and medication dispensing.

they should have a good understanding of the medications they are dispensing, as well as the ability to recognize potential drug interactions and other safety issues. Furthermore, having up-to-date technology and systems in place will ensure that prescriptions are accurately filled and that information is securely stored. Finally, having an organized workflow and a well-trained staff will help to ensure that orders are processed quickly and efficiently.

All of these elements combined can create a reliable and efficient pharmacy experience for patients.

You may want to check Physicians Assistant, Psychiatrist, and Ultrasound Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Ensure accurate preparation and distribution of medications
Monitor drug therapies for effectiveness and safety
Advise patients on the proper use of medications
Provide information to physicians and other healthcare professionals about medications
Monitor patient drug therapies for drug interactions and allergy reactions
Dispense medications as prescribed by physicians and other healthcare providers
Maintain accurate patient medication records
Explain side effects of medications to patients
Answer questions from patients about their medications
Order, store and label medications in the pharmacy

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of drug interactions and contraindications
Understanding of applicable laws, regulations, and standards
Ability to accurately fill prescriptions and maintain accurate records
Ability to counsel patients on the proper use of medications
Knowledge of pharmacology and pharmaceuticals
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Proficient with computer systems and software
Ability to perform calculations and calculations related to medication dosages
Knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations

The most important skill for a pharmacist to have is an understanding of medication, both prescribed and over-the-counter. Pharmacists must understand the different types of medications, their uses and potential side effects, as well as the interactions between different medications. they must be able to properly and accurately dispense medications, relying on their knowledge of the law and their ethical responsibilities.

Being able to accurately interpret a doctor's orders and decipher labels correctly is also essential for pharmacists. Good communication skills are also important for pharmacists in order to effectively counsel patients and explain proper medication use and dosage. Lastly, pharmacists must stay up to date on new medications, treatments, and drug interactions so that they can provide the best advice and care for their patients.

Dietitian, Kinesiologist, and Holistic Health Practitioner are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What do you think makes a successful pharmacist?
How do you stay up to date on the latest changes in pharmacy regulations and laws?
How do you ensure accuracy when filling a prescription?
What experience do you have managing a pharmacy or providing patient care?
What challenges have you faced as a pharmacist and how did you address them?
Can you explain the difference between generic and brand medications?
What strategies do you use to manage a busy pharmacy?
How would you handle a difficult customer asking for medication outside of their doctor's orders?
What experience do you have compounding medications?
How do you handle customer complaints and questions?

Common Tools in Industry

Electronic Medical Record System (EMR). A computerized system used to store patient medical information, such as diagnoses and test results. (e. g. Epic EMR)
Pill Counter. A device used to count and measure medications. (e. g. Rx Count-A-Matic)
Compounding Scale. A device used to accurately measure small amounts of medication. (e. g. Mettler Toledo model BP1200)
Automated Dispensing System. A computerized system used to store and dispense medications. (e. g. McKesson MedCarousel)
Barcode Scanner. A device used to scan barcodes on medication labels to ensure accuracy. (e. g. Motorola LI4278)
Drug Reference Database. An online database used to look up information on medications, including dosages and contraindications. (e. g. Lexicomp Online)
Electronic Prescribing System. A computerized system used to send prescriptions electronically to a pharmacy. (e. g. ePrescribe)
Pill Splitter. A device used to evenly split pills into two equal parts. (e. g. Apothecary Pill Splitter)
Inventory Management System. A computerized system used to track stock levels in a pharmacy. (e. g. RxSafe)
Drug Interaction Software. Software used to check for potential drug interactions when prescribing medications. (e. g. Lexi-Interact)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Pharmacists Association
National Community Pharmacists Association
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy
International Pharmaceutical Federation
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
Society of Critical Care Medicine
International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research
American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists
American College of Clinical Pharmacy

We also have Certified Massage Therapist (CMT), Respiratory Therapist, and Yoga Instructor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Prescriptions. Instructions from a physician that are written on a form and legally required for the purchase of certain medications.
Over-the-counter drugs (OTC). Medications that can be purchased without a prescription.
Dispensing. The process of providing a patient with a prescribed medication.
Compounding. The process of customizing a medication for an individual patient.
Drug Interactions. The activity of one drug that may affect the action of another drug.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR). Unfavorable or harmful reactions that may occur with the use of a drug.
Drug Name. The name used to identify a particular drug or pharmaceutical product.
Generic Drug. A drug that is chemically identical to a brand-name drug, but is usually cheaper.
Brand-name Drug. A drug that is developed and marketed by a pharmaceutical company with a unique name.
Pharmaceuticals. Drugs or other substances used to treat, prevent, or diagnose illnesses or diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of a Pharmacist?

A Pharmacist is a healthcare professional who is responsible for dispensing medications, providing advice on drug therapies, and educating patients on the safe use of medications.

What qualifications do you need to become a Pharmacist?

To become a Pharmacist, you must have a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited school of pharmacy and be licensed by the state in which you practice.

How much does a Pharmacist earn?

The median annual wage for Pharmacists in the United States is $128,090.

What type of environment do Pharmacists work in?

Pharmacists typically work in pharmacies, including those found in grocery and drug stores, as well as hospitals and clinics.

What are some of the duties of a Pharmacist?

The primary duties of a Pharmacist include dispensing medications according to prescriptions, providing drug information, monitoring patient drug therapy, and advising patients on the safe use of medications.