Pharmacist

Pharmacists in use their expert knowledge to ensure that people get the drugs and medicines needed for their particular healthcare needs. In addition to dispensing prescriptions and advising customers on the administration, use and effects of medications, they also help people identify their healthcare need and find the best non-prescription medicine to treat it.

Pharmacists working in hospital settings may specialize in fields such as oncology, cardiology, psychiatry, infectious disease or drug information.

An Exciting Field of Work

In general, Pharmacists in Hospital settings:

• Determine, monitor and manage drug therapy independently and in collaboration with other health care professionals
• Promote and maintain health and wellness, and provide disease state management
• Counsel patients regarding the safe and appropriate use of drugs, and the importance of complying with drug therapy instructions 
• Assist patients, caregivers and other health care providers by providing advice regarding the selection and use of drug and non-drug products
• Compound, prepare and dispense drugs
• Provide non-prescription drugs, drugs for injection (including parenteral products), health care aides and devices
• Supervise and manage drug distribution systems to maintain public safety and drug system security
• Conduct or collaborate in drug-related research
• Conduct or administer drug and other health-related programs such as structured medication reviews
• Adapt prescriptions regarding dose and dosage form to meet individual patient needs
• Assist patients in improving adherence to medications
• Educate clients, patients, caregivers and other health professionals about related matters

Personal Characteristics / Skills

• A genuine interest in people from all walks of life
• Good communication skills
• Tact and good judgment
• Precise work habits and the ability to work under pressure
• High degree of integrity
• Desire to keep up to date with new ideas and advances in the pharmaceutical sciences
• Ability to work independently, make decisions and solve problems

Education and Training

A Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy is required to work in this field. A Master’s degree may also be an asset to work in Hospital settings.

Education program offered in New Brunswick

The Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy is not offered in New Brunswick.

Length of Study / Training

7.0 - 9.0 years

Licence and certification

In New Brunswick, Pharmacists must be registered with the New Brunswick Pharmaceutical Society and pass the national exam to work in this field.

Helpful High School Courses

• Chemistry
• Biology
• Math
• Computer courses

Employment and Common Working Conditions

Pharmacists work in a variety of settings such as:

• Hospitals and Health care facilities
• Retail stores and pharmacies
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Government  
• Professional, advocacy and regulatory bodies
• Colleges and universities (in teaching and research positions)

Pharmacists may work alone or as part of a team. They spend most of their time standing, but their work does not involve much physical activity. Pharmacists may be required to work rotating shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.

Employment Prospects - GOOD

Canada’s aging population requires an ever-increasing supply of medical services including the need for more prescription drugs.