Emily Alford

Pharmacists: Improving the nation’s medication use and advancing patient care

Areas of Specialization Community Pharmacy (Retail Pharmacy) Consultant Pharmacy Health System Pharmacy (Hospital) Pharmacotherapy Specialty Research and Development

Pharmacists work in many dynamic fields including:

Work Environment Community pharmacy Health-system pharmacy Long-term care pharmacy Managed care pharmacy Ambulatory care centers Physician offices Academia Pharmaceutical industry Various government agencies

Career Outlook The field of pharmacy is experiencing unprecedented growth and the role of the pharmacist touches every aspect of health care. Because pharmacists are the experts in matters involving medications, they must demonstrate a solid foundation in math and science, as well as critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Career Outlook Very good employment opportunities are expected over the period because the number of job openings created by employment growth and the need to replace pharmacists who leave the occupation or retire are expected to exceed the number of degrees granted in pharmacy.

Typical Tasks Interpreting prescription orders Communicating information such as uses, side effects and drug interactions Assisting patients in the selection of non- prescription medicines and health products

Academic Requirements

The doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree is the educational standard for clinical practice in pharmacy.

The PharmD degree is a professional degree which requires a minimum of two years of accredited college work prior to entering pharmacy school.

Academic Requirements Students must then complete four years of pharmacy school before becoming a pharmacist. To become a registered pharmacist upon graduation from a school of pharmacy, one must also pass a state and national board exam.

Educational Programs Campbell University Elizabeth City State University (Partnership Program with UNC – Chapel Hill) University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill Wingate University

In cooperation with Watauga Medical Center April Laney, PharmD Campbell University In cooperation with Watauga Medical Center 1. What is a typical day for a PharmD? “I make rounds and check all the patient charts. I check lab values and consult with the physicians and nurses regarding drug interactions, toxicity levels, liver function, and kidney function.” 2. What is the most rewarding aspect of your job? “Feeling like I am making a difference.” 3. What is the difference between retail and a hospital? “Retail involves working with the public and insurance companies. The hospital involves more hands on and teamwork.” 4. Do you have to pay mal-practice insurance? “No, the hospital pays it for me.”

Sean Burroughs, PharmD University of North Carolina Chapel Hill In cooperation with Watauga Medical Center 1. How many years were you in college? “I was in an accelerated program and became a PharmD in 6 years. It usually takes 8 years to complete the program.” 2. How would you describe your work? “Primarily, I work with computers, charts, doctors, and nurses. I enjoy working with health care professionals.” 3.What are your average working hours? “I usually work 8 hour shifts. Some pharmacists work 12 hour shifts.” 4.What job opportunities are available? “Pharmacists work in hospitals, nuclear medicine, oncology, retail, epidemiology, clinics, pharmaceutical industries, and research.”

Salary Range $70, $100,000.00

References In cooperation with Watauga Medical Center North Carolina Health Careers Manual