A radiopharmacist is a healthcare professional who specializes in cancer treatments. These workers, like other types of pharmacists, formulate and distribute medication to patients. Radiopharmacists work with radioactive materials and must adhere to stringent medical and government regulations.
Many of the drugs and medications that radiopharmacists dispense are designed specifically to treat malignant tumors. Some of the medications that radiopharmacists work with are also used to diagnose and treat illnesses. The radioactivity of these materials aids physicians in using medical imaging devices to examine tissues and organs.
A radiopharmacist must be well-versed in which radioactive medicines are most appropriate for each test or treatment. Patients must also be taught how to use this medication safely by these professionals. Patients with cancer frequently have questions and concerns about the side effects of radioactive treatment. Radiopharmacists collaborate with physicians to ensure that patients are aware of how various medications affect their bodies.
This profession’s experts typically track and control a wide range of radioactive compounds. Only authorized personnel should have access to these materials, according to pharmacists. If medications used by radiopharmacists are not stored properly, they can degrade or cause harm. Experts must keep an eye on these items to ensure that they remain stable and secure.
Although some pharmacists work part time, the majority work a standard 40-hour work week. Hospitals and community pharmacies are the most common employers of radiopharmacists. Some professionals work for pharmaceutical companies or medical laboratories, assisting in the development and testing of new drugs.
A Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) degree is usually required for those who want to work as radiopharmacists. Students must first complete two years of general education, which includes chemistry and biology classes. In addition, trainees must complete four years of advanced study, during which time they will learn about drug interactions and pharmacy procedures. In addition to understanding complex medical interactions, successful workers in this field must have strong communication and problem-solving skills.
A radiopharmacist’s education does not end after graduation. Before entering the job market, many students enroll in a pharmaceutical residency program for several years. Individuals can gain hands-on experience while being supervised by a senior health professional in this program.
Before they can dispense medication, all pharmacists in the United States must pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX). To be certified as a radiopharmacist, a person must pass several tests on healthcare laws and procedures. In addition, most states in the United States require pharmacists to pass a background check and be at least 18 years old.