About Pharmacists

Pharmacists work in the health care industry dispensing prescription and non-prescription medication to patients.  They must be well-versed in possible drug interactions and adverse reactions, and may also have knowledge about durable healthcare equipment and home medical supplies.  Pharmacists also provide drug information to patients and doctors and monitor how long a patient has been taking a certain medication.  They may also answer patient questions about symptoms and recommend non- prescription products.

The majority of pharmacists work with the public in retail locations such as grocery or chain drug store pharmacies, while some work closely with medical staff in hospitals or clinics.  Pharmacists employed by large pharmaceutical manufacturers may engage in research, test raw or refined chemicals, assist with advertising, or prepare product literature and package inserts.  Other pharmacists may perform research for government agencies such as the FDA or teach at schools of pharmacy.  Some may also write or edit reports for journals or professional associations.

Those interested in a career in the pharmacy field should concentrate on math and science classes, specifically biology, chemistry, and physics.  Following high school, candidates must obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D.) degree from a school accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.  This degree usually takes 6 years to complete and should include an internship.  Pharmacists specializing in a specific health care field can obtain voluntary certification through the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties in nuclear pharmacy, nutrition support pharmacy, oncology pharmacy, pharmacotherapy, and psychiatric pharmacy.  After completing appropriate education, pharmacists must obtain licensure in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.  For more information on a career in pharmacy, visit the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy website.