CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Pharmacist

A healthcare professional, expert in medications responsible for providing them to patients, advising on their proper use, and ensuring safety.

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Verifies and dispenses medications based on prescriptions, ensuring accuracy. They also provide advice on drug interactions, side effects, and also collaborate with healthcare providers to optimize medication therapy and resolve any issues related to drug efficacy.

Knowledge
Knowledge of pharmacology, including drug interactions, therapeutic uses of medications and side effects. Additionally, they need to understand pharmaceutical laws, as well as possess skills in patient communication and clinical problem-solving.
Skills
Organizational Skills:

Ability to manage and maintain accurate records of prescriptions, ensuring the efficient operation of the pharmacy.

Problem Solving:

Capability to address and resolve issues related to medication therapy and patient care effectively.

Communication:

Proficiency in explaining complex drug information clearly to patients and healthcare professionals.

Abilities
Analytical Ability:

Capacity to assess and interpret complex information about medications and patient conditions.

Multitasking:

Skill in handling multiple tasks simultaneously, such as managing prescriptions and patient consultations.

Technical Proficiency:

Competence in using pharmacy software and technology for managing prescriptions and patient records.

Personality
Patience:

Ability to calmly address patient inquiries and concerns.

Integrity:

Commitment to ethical practices and maintaining confidentiality in handling patient information and medications.

Empathy:

Genuine concern for patients' well-being and understanding their perspectives to provide effective care.

Technology
Use technology such as electronic health records (EHR) and pharmacy management systems (Pharmasoft, Mediware) to track prescriptions, manage inventory, and ensure accurate dispensing.
Entry Requirements
Complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) degree from a recognized institution. Additionally, they must pass the Pakistan Pharmacy Council (PCP) licensing exam to practice professionally.
Job Outlook
Increasing Demand:

Growing healthcare needs and a rising population drive a consistent demand for pharmacists.

Expanding Roles:

Pharmacists are increasingly taking on expanded roles in clinical settings and healthcare teams.

Healthcare Sector Growth:

Ongoing development and investment in the healthcare sector create more opportunities.

Where can you work?
In hospitals, retail pharmacies, and clinics. Opportunities also exist in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and academic roles within universities.
Education
Complete Intermediate Education:

Obtain a Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) with a focus on pre-medical subjects.

Earn a Pharm-D Degree:

Complete a five-year Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) program from a recognized institution.

Pass the Licensing Exam:

Successfully pass the Pakistan Pharmacy Council (PCP) licensing exam to become a registered pharmacist.

Where can you study?
University of the Punjab, Lahore:

Offers a comprehensive Pharm-D program known for its strong academic curriculum and research opportunities.

Aga Khan University, Karachi:

Provides an advanced Pharm-D program with a focus on clinical pharmacy.

Riphah International University, Islamabad:

Known for its robust Pharm-D curriculum, emphasis on practical training and pharmaceutical research.

Expenses & Scholarships
The cost ranges from PKR 100,000 to PKR 500,000 per year, depending on the institution. Scholarships and financial aid, such as those offered by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and various universities, are available based on merit and financial need.

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