Pharmacy - Pharmacist

Pharmacist

This position functions within the pharmacy department. Its primary purpose is to assure efficacious, safe, and cost-effective drug therapy and appropriate outcomes in the use of drugs and medicines. The pharmacist prepares and distributes medications according to Federal and State law. They provide patient counseling and education, and advise the medical and nursing staff on drug therapy. The pharmacist selects and maintains an appropriate drug inventory. They formulate and participate in quality improvement activities. The services provided directly impact the healthcare of patients. The pharmacist performs their duties in a professional manner, respects confidentiality, and demonstrates qualities endorsed by the organization's standards for service excellence. Independent professional judgment is used prior to filling and dispensing each prescription to evaluate it for appropriateness and safety. If any questions arise, the prescriber must be consulted. Recommendations for alternate therapy are made by the pharmacist as needed. Judgment failures could seriously affect the health care of individuals. Independent judgment is required in counseling patients to verify that they understand their medications and the appropriate outcomes of drug therapy. Counseling can directly increase medication compliance and decrease patient morbidity. Decision-making is required in the Drug Utilization Evaluation process. This review performed by the pharmacist results in better patient care, educates medical staff, and can result in cost savings to the clinic. Decision-making is required in the formulation of policy and procedure which affects the overall operation of the department. The pharmacist reviews all prescriptions for appropriateness of therapy, legality, completeness, contraindications, interactions, allergies, and adverse drug reactions. They document all clinical activities and interventions accurately and completely. Prescriptions are entered into the pharmacy software. Finished prescription orders must be verified in a timely manner. Orders must be filled accurately while maintaining all required record keeping and documentation. The pharmacist works independently with minimal supervision and organizes and prioritizes work assignments. Pharmacy services must be provided in a timely manner. Advising patients clearly and accurately regarding their medications and outcomes is essential. The pharmacist verifies patient understanding of medication information, including indications, drug names and strengths, usage, and expected changes. Communication with patients and healthcare providers is regularly conducted to resolve problems and provide optimal care. Chart reviews for prescription refills and medication therapy management are performed. Recommendations are written for providers, and prescription refills are requested on the patient's behalf. The pharmacist provides drug information, drug therapy consultation, and staff education related to drug therapy. They direct pharmacy support personnel and verify the daily activities of pharmacy technicians. The pharmacist serves as a role model and educator for pharmacy students and technicians. Participation in clinical and administrative activities is required, including quality control and quality improvement within the department. The pharmacist attends meetings and participates on committees as requested. They assure availability, preparation, and control of medications. Selecting appropriate drugs for formulary is part of the role. Additional departmental duties and responsibilities are taken on as assigned. Health promotion and disease prevention activities related to drug use and preventative drug therapy are provided. The pharmacist provides support for Long-Term Care consultant pharmacist functions when assigned, including participation in medication regimen reviews and quality improvement initiatives. They assist with evaluation and improvement of medication-use systems in Long-Term Care settings, identify high-risk medication practices, and implement medication safety initiatives. Participation in interdisciplinary care planning and medication-related education for facility staff is required. Support for quality assurance and performance improvement activities related to Long-Term Care services is provided.