Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense prescription medications, counsel patients on proper drug use and potential side effects, and collaborate with healthcare providers to optimize therapeutic outcomes. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinical settings. The BLS reports a median salary of $132,750 with -2% projected decline as the market reaches saturation despite high demand. A Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and state licensure are required, representing 6-8 years of post-secondary education.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts by reviewing overnight prescription orders and checking for drug interactions. The morning involves verifying prescriptions, counseling patients at the pickup counter on new medications, and calling a physician about a dosage concern. After lunch, the pharmacist administers flu vaccines, processes insurance claims, and trains a pharmacy technician. The afternoon includes conducting a medication therapy management session with an elderly patient taking multiple prescriptions.

Key Stats

Required Skills