Pharmacist

The role of the pharmacist has evolved from one who simply fills prescriptions to that of an active member of the primary health care team. Not only are pharmacists often the first health professional consulted by patients, they are also likely to be the final health care team member with whom the patient consults before taking a prescription drug. Since the pharmacist interacts with patients at such crucial times, they play a vital role in patient education and must be able to communicate effectively with individuals from all social and economic backgrounds.

Work Environment
Those involved in patient care may work long or erratic hours. Others may work specific schedules, depending on their work site. Pharmacists may own their own businesses, work for corporate chains, or work in hospitals and extended care facilities. They can work for pharmaceutical companies in sales, administration, and research; they can also work in public health facilities and state and federal facilities

Job Outlook
The demand for skilled pharmacists is increasing because of an increase in human life span, increased incidence of chronic diseases, and the complexity, number, and sophistication of medications and related products. An emphasis on primary and preventive health services and home health care is also increasing the need for more pharmacists.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Pharmacy programs currently offer the bachelor of science (B.S.) or the bachelor of pharmacy (B.Pharm.) degrees and the doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. The trend is for institutions to offer the Pharm.D. as the entry-level degree to the profession

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $63,000 - $90,000.

Educational Programs
Texas Southern University
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at Amarillo
University of Houston
The University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

Professional Associations
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
1426 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/739-2330

American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists
1640 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314-2747
703/548-3000

American Pharmaceutical Association
2215 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20037
202/628-4410

American Society of Health System Pharmacists
7272 Wisconsin Ave.
Bethesda, MD 20814
301/657-3000

National Association of Boards of Pharmacy
700 Busse Hwy.
Park Ridge, IL 60068
847/698-6227
Fax: 847/698-6221