What does a pharmacist do?

1 Dispensing medications

One of the primary functions of a pharmacist is to dispense medications to patients according to the prescriptions written by physicians or other authorized prescribers. This involves checking the accuracy and appropriateness of the prescription, verifying the identity and eligibility of the patient, preparing and labeling the medication, and providing counseling and education to the patient on how to use the medication correctly and safely. Pharmacists also monitor the medication inventory, storage, and security in their pharmacies and comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

2 Reviewing medication therapy

Another important role of a pharmacist is to review the medication therapy of patients and identify any potential or actual problems that may affect their health outcomes. This may include detecting drug interactions, allergies, adverse effects, dosing errors, compliance issues, or gaps in therapy. Pharmacists use their clinical knowledge and judgment to assess the appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety of the medication regimen and make recommendations to the prescriber or the patient to optimize the therapy. Pharmacists may also perform medication reconciliation, which is the process of comparing the medications that a patient is taking with the medications that are documented in the medical record or the prescription order.

3 Providing clinical services

In addition to dispensing and reviewing medications, some pharmacists provide specialized clinical services to patients and prescribers in various settings. These services may include conducting comprehensive medication reviews, managing chronic diseases, providing immunizations, performing point-of-care testing, prescribing medications under collaborative practice agreements, participating in transitions of care, and educating patients and health care professionals on various topics related to pharmacotherapy. Pharmacists who provide these services may have additional training, certification, or credentialing in specific areas of practice.

4 Collaborating with physicians

Pharmacists collaborate with physicians and other health care providers to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. They communicate regularly with physicians to exchange information, provide feedback, consult on complex cases, and coordinate care plans. They also establish professional relationships with physicians based on mutual respect, trust, and shared goals. Pharmacists may work as part of an interdisciplinary team in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, ambulatory care centers, long-term care facilities, or community pharmacies. They may also participate in research, quality improvement, or education projects with physicians and other colleagues.