Retail pharmacy is one of the most popular career choices for pharmacists. With a pharmacy around the corner in every major city and in most towns, retail pharmacists have the flexibility to choose to work in various different locations around the world.
Retail pharmacists have the most face to face interactions with patients and are an important part of the community. Many patients trust the judgment of their pharmacists and often ask questions about both prescription and non-prescription medications. The pharmacist checks medications prepared by technicians for adverse drug reactions and provides counseling to patients before the drug is dispensed. Many retail pharmacists also provide additional services and counsel patients on topics as diverse as blood pressure and diabetes monitoring. Additionally, many retail pharmacists now also provide immunization services for flu. The role of the retail pharmacist is constantly expanding to provide better service for patients.
Retail pharmacists in the US can make over $60.00 per hour with an annual salary over $120,000. A license is required to become a retail pharmacist. Check this list to view what is necessary for each state. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the growth rate of pharmacist jobs is faster than average for the future.
To get a job as a retail pharmacist, it is important to network during on campus recruiting events if you are still in pharmacy school. Also, getting a job as a pharmacy technician or intern at a retail pharmacy will help your chances. Many new hires start off as a floater and move between different stores, but eventually is assigned to a single store.
Retail pharmacists can advance to a pharmacist in charge (PIC) position or a management position if they are part of a large corporate chain such as CVS and Walgreens.