1. Pharmacist By Kena Lackman

2. What is a Pharmacist? A pharmacist is someone who has earned a Pharm. D degree and can distribute prescription drugs to individuals They also advise their patients, physicians, and other health practitioners on the selection, dosages, interactions, and side effects of medications Some pharmacists are involved in research for pharmaceutical manufacturers, developing new drugs and testing their effects Others work in marketing or sales, providing clients with expertise on the use, effectiveness, and possible side effects of drugs

3. Who do Pharmacists work with? Patients Making sure patient understands when/how/why to take their prescription Other Pharmacists Pharmaceutical Companies Developing new drugs Insurance Companies Find out which prescriptions are covered Healthcare providers Doctors – help determine which prescription is most cost efficient and safest for the patient

4. How do I become a Pharmacist? An applicant must have completed at least 2 years of specific pre-professional study requirements include courses in mathematics and natural sciences, such as chemistry, biology, and physics, as well as courses in the humanities and social sciences. Many applicants get a degree in chemistry Most applicants have completed 3 or more years at a college before moving on to a Pharm.D. program (many complete a Bachelors degree) Then they take the PCAT – the test to apply to Pharmacy School Pharmacists who are trained in the United States must earn a Pharm.D. degree from a school of pharmacy This usually takes 4 years

6. How do I become a Pharmacist? To obtain a license… After obtaining the Pharm.D. degree, the individual must pass a series of examinations. All States, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia require the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX), which tests pharmacy skills and knowledge. Forty-four States and the District of Columbia also require the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE), which tests pharmacy law. Both exams are administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).

7. What do I learn in Pharmacy School? Pharmacy school courses are designed to teach students about all aspects of drug therapy. In addition, students learn how to communicate with patients and other healthcare providers about drug information and patient care. Students also learn professional ethics, concepts of public health, and business management. In addition to receiving classroom instruction, students in Pharm.D. programs spend time working with licensed pharmacists in a variety of practice settings.

8. What can I do right now to help me become a Pharmacist? People considering this profession should take high school courses such as… Biology, chemistry, physics, health, art and the social sciences. Study hard and keep your GPA above a 3.5 This will help you receive scholarships for college!!!

9. Professionalism Pharmacist admissions offices look favorably on paid or volunteer experience in the health care field Shadow a Pharmacist Work/volunteer at a nursing home Have a desire to help others Pay close attention to detail

10. What kind of money are we talking? $$$$$!!!!! Average Costs of Schooling to become a Pharmacist Undergraduate degree – usually about $8,000- $15,000/year for 3-4 years Financial aid is available School of pharmacy – usually between $15,000- $40,00/year for 4 years Again, financial aid is available For example, a MT resident could attend Skaggs School of Pharmacy in Missoula, MT for approximately $15,000/year Average Salary $106,410 in May 2008 $111,000 in 2010 – this is about $53/hour

11. Typical Day In The Life Of An Pharmacist Most pharmacists work about 40 hours a week 12 percent worked more than 50 hours per week in 2008. 19 percent of pharmacists worked part-time. Many community and hospital pharmacies are open for extended hours, so pharmacists may be required to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

13. Typical Day In The Life Of An Pharmacist Pharmacists in community pharmacies dispense medications, counsel patients on the use of prescription and over-the- counter medications, and advise physicians about medication therapy. They also advise patients about general health topics, such as diet, exercise, and stress management, and provide information on products, such as durable medical equipment or home healthcare supplies. In addition, they often complete third-party insurance forms and other paperwork. Some community pharmacists provide specialized services to help patients with conditions such as diabetes, asthma, smoking cessation, or high blood pressure. Some pharmacists are trained to administer vaccinations.

15. Typical Day In The Life Of An Pharmacist Pharmacists in healthcare facilities dispense medications and advise the medical staff on the selection and effects of drugs. They may make sterile solutions to be administered intravenously. They also plan, monitor, and evaluate drug programs or regimens. They may counsel hospitalized patients on the use of drugs before the patients are discharged.

17. Work Environment Pharmacists work in clean, well-lighted, and well-ventilated areas. Spend most of their workday on their feet. When working with sterile or dangerous pharmaceutical products, pharmacists wear gloves, masks, and other protective equipment.

19. Job Outlook Employment is expected to increase faster than the average. As a result of job growth, the need to replace workers who leave the occupation, and the limited capacity of training programs, job prospects should be excellent! 17% growth expected between now and 2018.

20. Thought Provoking Questions? What special skills does it take to be an Pharmacist? Precision? Perfectionist? Common-sense? Can you see yourself enjoying this profession? Why or why not? Where do I want to work in the future? Will there be pharmacist job openings in those places? What are the pros and cons of becoming a pharmacist?

21. Want More Info? Resources… Contact the creator of this presentation at: Kena Lackman Cell: (406) 925-0928 kena.lackman@msu.montana.edu Or on NING!!! Or watch these cool VIDEOS…. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4eS2jw8DA8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIj22gE4SoQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84PYEWUMaRg&feature=related Resources http://pharmacistsalaryguide.com/ http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos079.htm http://www.aacp.org/resources/student/pharmacyforyou/admissions/ pages/PSAR.aspxhttp://www.aacp.org/resources/student/pharmacyforyou/admissions/ pages/PSAR.aspx - this one has LOTS of good info! http://www.health.umt.edu/schools/pharmacy/http://www.health.umt.edu/schools/pharmacy/ – this is for the Pharmacy school in Missoula, MT