About the Job

NOC: 3131
Occupation: Pharmacists
Category: Health Occupations

Nature Of Work:

Community and hospital pharmacists are an essential part of the healthcare team. They provide recommendations to other healthcare providers on medication; interpret and evaluate prescriptions; keep records of controlled drugs; and order and maintain stock of supplies. They work with patients to provide instruction on how to use a particular medication, and explain the value, content, hazards, side effects, and proper storage. They maintain patient drug profiles, and monitor drug interactions, adverse reactions, and patient's compliance with their drug treatment. They also advise clients on selection and use of non-prescription medicines.

Other activities include providing information on drugs to other healthcare professionals and patients, preparing medicines from natural and synthetic sources, and compounding drugs.

Industrial pharmacists participate in the research and manufacture of pharmaceutical products; and formulate and test new drug products developed by medical researchers.

Skills:

To work as a pharmacist, you should have an interest in helping people in a healthcare environment. You should have an interest in chemistry and an aptitude for detail, precision, and accuracy. Effective communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills are essential. You must be patient and able to deal with people in a mature, tactful, and empathetic way.

Other Considerations:

Although many are employed by retail establishments, a large proportion own their own businesses.