Pharmacist

Pharmacists work primarily for pharmacies and drugstores; however, hospitals and medical clinics may employ their own pharmacists to dispense drugs directly to patients. Pharmacists who work for hospitals must analyze both in-patient and out-patient medication, so close attention to detail is very important in this position to ensure the accuracy of filled prescriptions.

In addition to filling prescriptions from medical doctors, pharmacists must also be able to decide what medication is appropriate for each patient and identify any errors by physicians in prescribing medication to patients. They must also review other medications which patients are taking prior to filling new prescriptions to ensure there are no possible harmful drug interactions between medications. Pharmacists should also contact patients' physicians regarding any concerns about their medications.

Most employers require that candidates possess a doctorate degree in pharmacy and years of experience in a hospital or residency. Computer skills and interpersonal skills are important in this position, as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills to speak with patients politely, clearly and concisely. They must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as in team settings. They are encouraged to read professional journals relevant to their job and stay up-to date with new drugs coming into the marketplace. Some may also train, coach, or mentor new pharmacists.

As a pharmacist with 3-6 years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

• Dispensing medications accurately and reviewing prescriptions for safety and appropriateness. Ensure accurate dispensing of medications and conduct appropriate checks for patient safety.
• Counseling patients on the proper use of medications, potential side effects, and drug interactions. Provide comprehensive medication counseling to patients, addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals to optimize patient care and medication therapy. Work closely with doctors and other healthcare providers to ensure optimal medication therapy and patient outcomes.
• Monitoring and managing medication inventory, including ordering, storing, and expiry date monitoring.

For a Pharmacist job role, the following qualifications are required:

• A Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy or a related field, along with a valid state license to practice pharmacy. This solid educational foundation ensures a strong understanding of pharmaceuticals and their effects on the human body.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in dispensing medications. Pharmacists must ensure that prescriptions are filled correctly and that patients receive the appropriate dosage and instructions.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals. Being able to explain medication usage, potential side effects, and answer any questions is crucial in providing quality healthcare.
• Strong knowledge of pharmacy laws and regulations to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.

With 3-6 years of experience as a Pharmacist in Singapore, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are following options to explore:

• Clinical Research Associate: A role that involves conducting and monitoring clinical trials, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines.
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: A position focused on promoting and selling pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals, building relationships with clients, and achieving sales targets.
• Regulatory Affairs Specialist: A role that entails ensuring compliance with regulations and guidelines, preparing and submitting regulatory documents, and providing guidance on product development and registration.
• Medical Science Liaison: A position involving the dissemination of scientific and clinical information to healthcare professionals, building relationships with key opinion leaders, and providing support for research and educational initiatives.

The role of pharmacist in Singapore is projected to experience significant growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the job role is expected to witness a steady increase in demand. With a rising population and aging demographics, more pharmacists will be required to meet the healthcare needs of the society. The government's emphasis on promoting health and wellness also contributes to the growing demand for pharmacists. As a result, there will be numerous employment opportunities available in the future for individuals pursuing this profession.