Anything but Retail: Navigating Diverse Career Paths in Pharmacy

As a pharmacist who qualified in South Africa over a decade ago, I've traversed a multitude of career paths within the pharmacy profession. From the bustling aisles of retail pharmacies to the intricate world of health economics and outcomes research (HEOR), my journey has been anything but linear. This blog is for those pharmacists who find themselves at a crossroads, seeking to explore opportunities beyond the traditional retail setting.

The Starting Point: Retail Pharmacy

Like many pharmacists, my career began in retail. I had the best time working in retail over the years and met so many great people. It also helped that my tutor as an intern was a very passionate pharmacist who enjoyed teaching and inspired me to do the same. Retail pharmacy taught me many great life skills and was massive in shaping me professionally. I worked in both small private pharmacies and large chain groups, gaining invaluable experience in patient interaction, medication dispensing, and inventory management. Retail pharmacy is an excellent starting point, but it's not the only path available. If you find yourself yearning for something different, know that there are numerous opportunities to explore.

Stepping into Hospital Pharmacy

After completing my Master's degree in pharmaceutics—driven by a passion for the manufacturing of medications, especially skin products—I found it challenging to secure a position in the pharmaceutical industry following my community service year. As a result, I transitioned into clinical pharmacy, which was initially my second choice. However, I quickly discovered a deep love for this field. Working as a clinical pharmacist in the private sector, I was able to collaborate with healthcare teams, manage complex medication regimens, and directly impact patient care. Hospital pharmacy offers a dynamic environment where you can specialise in areas like oncology, infectious diseases (antimicrobial stewardship), or critical care.

Diversifying into Drug Utilisation Review (DUR)

My next career move was into Drug Utilisation Review (DUR). This transition was motivated by a desire to explore something different and the flexibility to work from home. In my role, I managed to move around within the company a bit, as I was always willing to put up my hand for new opportunities. Many pharmacists who end up working in offices tend to avoid patient or doctor interactions, but my personality and years of retail experience made me enjoy making outbound calls and dealing with the most complex healthcare cases in the office. I had the very unique opportunity to learn from the country leaders how to look at healthcare through both a clinical and an economic lens. This was a great way not only to learn but also to form relationships with some of the best healthcare providers in the country. If you have a knack for data analysis and a passion for improving healthcare systems, DUR could be a rewarding path.

Exploring Health Economics and Outcomes Research

Currently, I work in HEOR medical writing, a field that combines clinical expertise with research and communication skills. I enjoy working from the comfort of my home and connecting with the most interesting people all over the world. This flexibility allows me to work from different locations and has led to a much better work-life balance compared to the good old office days. HEOR focuses on evaluating the economic and clinical outcomes of healthcare interventions. This role has given me the opportunity to work on international projects, contributing to the global healthcare landscape. If you enjoy research and writing, HEOR offers a unique blend of science and creativity.

The Value of Locum Work

Throughout my career, I have also kept doing locums at hospitals. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, I continued to locum over weekends and after hours, as I felt that we, as frontline healthcare workers, couldn't sit back and not take care of our country's healthcare system. During those years, I met many interns while wearing masks, and now, I wouldn't even recognise them without their masks. Locum work has provided me with flexibility and the chance to stay connected to various aspects of pharmacy practice. It’s a great way to gain diverse experiences, meet new professionals, and keep your skills sharp.

Creating Your Unique Path

Your career as a pharmacist doesn't have to follow a predetermined route. Here are some tips to help you carve out your unique path:

1. Identify Your Interests: Reflect on what aspects of pharmacy excite you the most. Is it patient care, research, data analysis, or something else?
2. Seek Additional Education: Consider pursuing further studies or certifications in areas that interest you. This could open doors to new opportunities.
3. Network: Connect with professionals in various fields of pharmacy. Attend conferences, join professional organisations, and seek mentorship.
4. Be Open to Change: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Each new experience adds to your skill set and broadens your horizons.
5. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest trends and advancements in pharmacy and healthcare. This knowledge can help you identify emerging opportunities.

Conclusion

Pharmacy is a versatile and evolving profession with countless opportunities beyond retail. Whether you’re interested in clinical practice, research, health economics, or another niche, there’s a path for you. By leveraging your skills, seeking new experiences, and staying open to change, you can build a fulfilling and diverse career in pharmacy. Remember, your journey is unique, and the possibilities are endless.