On the job, consultant pharmacists wear a variety of hats. They are not only certified as pharmacists, which means they are legally allowed to dispense prescribed medications, but they are also responsible for staying up to date on pharmaceutical laws and informing their employers of any policy changes that are required. Long-term care facilities, government agencies, and private hospitals all use the services of a consultant pharmacist.
The typical consultant pharmacist’s job entails a regular review of drug-related government regulations. The pharmacist should be able to spot any irregularities in medication use, dosage, or potential medication interactions in that review. A consultant pharmacist supervises the review of facility documentation as well.
Consultant pharmacists are frequently called upon to assess the efficacy of various drug therapies, which necessitates data interpretation skills. They must also be able to analyze clinical data and draw informed conclusions that can be applied to specific patient situations. Most consultant pharmacist positions require the preparation of detailed weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports.
Analytical and written communication skills are required of a pharmacist consultant. Furthermore, the consultant may be required to discuss findings with nurses, physicians, and other facility personnel; thus, verbal communication skills are desirable. The consultant’s computer skills enable him or her to input and manipulate data.
Decisions about medication quality of service are partly based on the advice of a consultant pharmacist. The pharmacist uses assessments, education, and research studies to determine where improvements are needed. Issues with medication dispensing are discussed as part of the quality of service discussion.
Consultant pharmacists typically have a bachelor’s degree, though many go on to pursue a master’s degree in the pharmaceutical field. They also become pharmacists and are required to take continuing education courses in medication development and pharmaceutical law once licensed. Applicants for pharmacy consultant positions are sometimes required to have previously worked as a pharmacist. Pharmacist consultants conduct research and compile the findings to share with medical professionals on a less frequent basis. A medication efficacy study is an example of such research.
A pharmacy consultant’s work environment includes both office and clinical settings. A pharmacy consultant works day-shift hours in most cases, though the hours can be long. Pharmacy consultants are sometimes in charge of a small team.