Retail Pharmacist |
Career OverviewA retail pharmacist works for a chain pharmacy or a pharmacy in a large or small store or pharmacy outlet. They are often referred to as community pharmacists because they are usually required to provide basic information and support to customers and community members that use the pharmacy.
Retail pharmacists have to understand basic health concerns and the prescription and over-the-counter medications that may be available for to help control or eliminate the condition. While the retail pharmacist cannot actually prescribe medications they may be able to help customers understand the importance of getting to a physician for certain symptoms or may be able to make suggestions for various herbal or over the counter medications that may be suitable for treating less serious conditions.
Often a retail pharmacist is asked to help with issues such as:
- Cold or flu symptoms
- Allergies
- Basic first aid
- Mediations for aches and pains
- Minor digestive problems
- Acne and skin conditions
In addition the retail pharmacist must be aware of medications that may cause complications when combine and will notify doctors or prescribing medical staff if they note any possible issues.
Many retail pharmacists help patients decrease the cost of their medications by being able to recommend or offer the option of switching to appropriate generic medications rather than the prescribed name-brand medications.
Retail pharmacists must keep accurate patient records and complete any and all medical or insurance claim forms in a timely and complete manner. Those patients on government assistance for drugs or drug therapies may also require the assistance of a retail pharmacist to complete required paperwork. Retail pharmacist may be required to work evening or weekend shifts as needed.
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Career RequirementsA retail pharmacist must have a Pharm-D or Doctor of Pharmacy degree and must have passed the NAPLEX and the MPJE exams as required by the state they are working in.
In addition those retail pharmacists that offer additional services such as blood pressure testing, flu vaccinations and other services must have all required training and certification to offer these services as mandated by the state and federal government.
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Job OutlookThe demand for retail pharmacist will increase at a higher than average rate according to the United States Department of Labor. This trend will continue for the next several years as the number of graduates from colleges offering pharmacy degrees will continue to be less than the number of positions on the market.
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Career TrackMost retail pharmacists choose to move into management positions within the chain or department store as the obtain seniority. This may mean moving from a retail pharmacist to a department manager to a regional or even national manager in the pharmacy section.
Some retail pharmacists move into sales or research for pharmaceutical companies while still others choose to open their own community based pharmacies.
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CompensationThe standard or average income for a full-time retail pharmacist is between $95,000 and $100,000. Those that move into management positions often earn in excess of $150,000 depending on the number of staff they are responsible for.
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