If you are interested in joining the healthcare sector and want to work with medicines and drugs, pharmacy may be an ideal branch to consider. Pharmacists in the US earn handsomely, and job outlook is incredible. In this post, we are discussing all the basics – how to become a pharmacist, advantages, fields to consider, and other details.
What does a pharmacist do?
Pharmacists may have diverse roles, depending on their employment. They are often involved in planning & implementing drug therapy, besides evaluating clinical literature. They help patients with dosage instructions and schedule and may have to offer counseling where required. Pharmacists who work in research and development of medicines have an instrumental role to play in the medical world. If you wish to work directly with patients, you can choose to find employment at hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Education
To start working as a pharmacist, you need to have a doctoral degree, (Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree) and must get your license. Pharmacy assistants, however, don’t need to study as much. If you are looking for Pharm.D. programs, make sure to select one that’s accredited by Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. Many colleges don’t require PCAT score compulsorily anymore, and a Bachelor’s Degree may not be mandatory. However, having a Bachelor’s Degree in subjects like organic chemistry, chemistry, biology always helps. Pharmacists are also required to pass North American Pharmacist Licensing Exam (NAPLEX).
Advantages
As we mentioned earlier, the job outlook for pharmacists is great. Most pharmacists work in healthcare facilities, but you can be involved in research & development, work with pharma companies, or may be employed to work with patients directly. Also, the demand for pharmacists is constantly increasing, and in the US, salary is considerably high in most states. If you have a thing for drugs, chemistry and medications, you are likely to enjoy the role of a pharmacist, and there are many other career paths to consider, as you gain experience.
Final word
Your job as a pharmacist, regardless of the role, can be immensely rewarding and satisfying. The initial period of study eventually pays off, and you can expect to have a stable job with considerable increase in income with time. You can check online for pharmacy colleges, and check their requirements for admission as the first step. Check if the college has specific needs, like letter of recommendation, or whether a bachelor’s degree is a must.
