How to Become a Home Care Pharmacist
- 1). Find a college in your area that offers a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy. These are typically 4-year programs, and you may be able to complete some of the requirements online. Be prepared to complete many science courses, including chemistry.
- 2). Obtain your license to practice pharmacy. You will need to pass a test administered by the state you wish to practice in and keep your license in good standing. Be prepared to devote at least 80 hours to study time for this exam.
- 3). Pursue continued education. New medications are introduced every year. Keeping abreast of new developments with new and existing drugs and maintaining your knowledge of drug interaction is crucial. Subscribe to any field-specific periodicals and medical journals.
- 4). To work in the home-care pharmacy setting, you need to keep your working hours flexible. Some pharmacies are staffed 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
- 5). Develop good communication skills. Your patients and those administering their drugs will want to feel comfortable with you and your knowledge. Learn how to express yourself clearly, be patient with individuals and learn how to explain things for every education level.
- 6). Become familiar with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laws, privacy laws and any other laws or organizations that oversee the workings and organization of your home-care pharmacy. You will be held responsible for maintaining compliance with various organizations and agencies laws.
- 7). Conduct a search on the internet and in your local classified ads for home-care pharmacies and scour their employment postings. Prepare your resume and practice your interview skills before applying.
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