The primary role of a pharmacist is to dispense drugs that require a prescription to patients. However, it is also among their responsibilities to monitor the health of those patients and to ensure that the drugs are doing their job. It is important for pharmacists to be able to accurately explain how drugs should be taken and what the effects will be.
Those wishing to enter the profession will need an accredited degree and may have to pass additional tests to show that they have a strong understanding of pharmacy law. Necessary aptitudes include excellent attention to detail, a sound scientific knowledge and an ability to communicate well.
Pharmacists can work in independent drugstores or chains, or in hospitals. Promotion opportunities usually involve progressing to more senior managerial positions. There are also opportunities to move into the pharmaceutical industry, where jobs include quality control, sales and marketing.
As well as dispensing drugs, a pharmacist may find themselves being asked questions about how to manage stress, take more exercise, improve diet or give up smoking. They can expect to earn an average of C
$78,000 per year.