Guide to Health Careers

Pharmacist

from: http://www.communityhealthcareers.com/careers_pharmacist.htm

Pharmacists use their expert knowledge of chemistry, biology, and medicine to ensure that people get the drugs and medicines needed for their particular healthcare needs. In addition to dispensing prescriptions and advising customers on the administration, use and effects of medications, they also help people identify their healthcare need and find the best non-prescription medicine to
treat it.

The Cool Things They Do:

Compare prescriptions with clients' records to prevent complications and check for proper dosage
Prepare prescriptions by measuring and mixing drug ingredients
Advise customers and healthcare professionals regarding the use, effects, drug incompatibilities and restrictions of prescriptions dispensed
Help customers choose and use non-prescription medication
May help participate in basic research work for the development of or testing of new drugs
Evaluate labeling, packaging and advertising of drug products

Working Conditions:

Pharmacists work alone or with another pharmacist or pharmacy technician. They spend most of their time standing, but their work does not involve much physical activity. Pharmacies must stay open late and on weekends, so phamacists may be required to work rotating shifts, including evenings and holidays.

Most Pharmacists Work In:

Retail stores and neighbourhood pharmacies
Wholesale pharmacies
Hospitals
Pharmaceutical firms
Government departments and agencies

Personal Characteristics/Skills:

Genuine interest in people from all walks of life
Strong communication skills
Tact, good judgement, and a high degree of integrity
Precise work habits with strong attention to detail
Ability to work independently
Willingness and ability to stay on top of the latest trends and research

Education and Training Required:

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy followed by a one-year internship.

Length of Study/Training : 5 years post-secondary

Certification (s):

National : Must pass the Pharmacy Board of Canada exam

Helpful High School Courses:

Chemistry
Biology
Math
English
Computer-related courses

Employment Prospects - GOOD

Canada’s aging population requires an ever-increasing supply of medical services including the need for more prescription drugs. Job openings exceed the number of people qualified to fill them. Pharmacists are earn 65% more than the national average income.

Earnings:

Average annual income: $50,000 to $65,000 although those owning and operating their own pharmacy can earn as much as $80,000 or $90,000.

More Information:

Canadian Pharmacists Association
http://www.pharmacists.ca

Ontario College of Pharmacists
http://www.ocpinfo.com

Ontario Pharmacist Association
http://www.opatoday.com

Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists
http://www.cshp.ca

Pharm Web
http://www.pharmweb.net

Virtual Library – Pharmacy
http://www.pharmacy.org

Job Futures: Pharmacists
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/3131.shtml