Pharmacy - Pharmacist

PharmacistThis 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 role involves preparing and distributing medications according to Federal and State law. It includes providing patient counseling and education. Advising the medical and nursing staff on drug therapy is a critical aspect of the job. The pharmacist will select and maintain an appropriate drug inventory. Participation in quality improvement activities is required. The services directly impact the healthcare of patients. The pharmacist must perform in a professional manner. Respect for confidentiality is essential. Demonstrating qualities endorsed by following service excellence standards is expected. Independent professional judgment is used prior to the filling and dispensing of each prescription. Evaluating prescriptions for appropriateness and safety is necessary. If any question arises, the prescriber must be consulted. Recommendations for alternative therapy may be made by the pharmacist. Judgment failure could seriously affect the health care of individuals. Counseling patients to ensure they understand their medications is crucial. This counseling can increase medication compliance and decrease patient morbidity. Decision-making is required in the Drug Utilization Evaluation process. This review results in better patient care and can yield cost-savings. Formulating policy and procedure that affects the overall operation of the department is also required.All prescriptions must be reviewed for appropriateness of therapy, legality, and completeness. Contraindications, interactions, allergies, adverse drug reactions, and lab value abnormalities must be screened. Providing clinical consultation and clarification is essential. Resolving any concerns or questions with the prescriber prior to dispensing is required. Documentation of all clinical activities and interventions must be accurate and complete. Prescriptions must be entered into pharmacy software. Finished prescription orders must be verified in a timely manner. These orders must be filled accurately while maintaining all required record keeping and documentation. Working independently with minimal supervision is expected. Organizing and prioritizing work assignments is necessary. Ensuring pharmacy services are provided in a timely manner is critical. Advising patients clearly regarding their medications and verifying understanding is mandatory. The information provided must include the indication for medication use, drug name and strength, usage instructions, and expected changes. Regular communication with patients and healthcare providers is important to resolve problems and provide optimal care. Performing chart reviews for prescription refills and medication therapy management is included in the role. Writing recommendations for providers and requesting prescription refills is part of the duties. Providing drug information and drug therapy consultation is expected. Directing pharmacy support personnel and verifying daily activities of pharmacy technicians is required. Serving as a role model and educator for pharmacy students and technicians is also a responsibility. Participation in clinical and administrative activities, including quality control and quality improvement, is necessary. Attendance at meetings and participation on committees as requested is expected. Assurance of the availability, preparation, and control of medications is critical. Selecting appropriate drugs for formulary and taking on additional departmental duties is also part of the role. Providing health promotion and disease prevention activities related to drug use is necessary.A Pharm.D. degree and licensure as a registered pharmacist are required. Candidates licensed prior to 2003 with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree will be considered with 3 years of experience in hospital and/or ambulatory clinic pharmacy. An unrestricted license as a registered pharmacist is necessary. Completion of a nationally recognized pharmacy residency program is preferred. Proficiency in reviewing patient medical history, labs, and medication orders is necessary. A strong knowledge of pharmaceutical sciences is required. Filling prescriptions requires an understanding of state and federal pharmacy laws. The pharmacist must provide care appropriate to the needs of patients of all ages. Oral and written communication skills with patients and staff are essential. Working knowledge of computer application skills is necessary. Math skills are required for accurate drug dosage calculations and compounding formulations. The ability to work cooperatively with pharmacy staff and exercise sound professional judgment is critical. Handling frequent interruptions and adapting to changing workloads is necessary. The ability to work independently, set priorities, and make critical decisions is essential. Responding quickly to emergency requests is also required.