Pharmacist
Overview:
A Pharmacist is a healthcare professional responsible for the safe and effective dispensing of prescription medications. They are medication experts who provide critical information to patients and other healthcare providers about drug usage, side effects, interactions, and proper storage.
Key Responsibilities:
- Accurately dispense prescription medications by reviewing physician orders and verifying dosages.
- Conduct drug utilization reviews to identify potential interactions, allergies, or therapeutic duplications.
- Counsel patients on how to properly take their medications, including dosage, timing, and potential side effects.
- Compound medications when necessary, following precise formulas.
- Manage pharmacy inventory, including ordering, storing, and controlling the supply of drugs.
- Provide immunizations and other health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, cholesterol).
- Collaborate with physicians and insurance companies to process claims and ensure coverage.
- Supervise pharmacy technicians and other support staff.
- Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws and regulations governing pharmacy practice.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited institution.
- State-issued pharmacist license (must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam - NAPLEX and a jurisprudence exam).
- Meticulous attention to detail to prevent medication errors.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical science, pharmacology, and therapeutics.
