Pharmacists have been unjustly stigmatized as people who couldn’t get into medical school and stand behind a counter all day, dispensing pills. This is the complete opposite of this wonderful career, as there are many facets to a pharmacist’s job. Those who work in pharmacology must have a broad knowledge of medicine that encompasses many spheres, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. They work with people all day, spending a very rewarding career helping patients feel better.
So, why exactly is pharmacology such a great career choice?
Education
For those who want to work in medicine, but can’t or don’t want to attend med school, pharmacology is the perfect alternative. You earn a doctorate, but a Doctorate in Pharmacology, or PharmD, takes only six years to complete, rather than twelve or more. After passing the North American Pharmacology License Exam and Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam, you can practice pharmacology almost anywhere.
Job Security
The ability to find a job anywhere means you will never be stuck somewhere you don’t want to be. Pharmacology is also a growing industry, expected to surpass the average career. Studies have found there to be approximately a 58% job growth in all studies of pharmacology.
Salary
The median salary for pharmacists is over $100,000. Due to an ever-growing number of people who live to a ripe old age and continued developments in medication for various ailments, patients will always need pharmacists to help them get well and feel better. Salary remains rather steady throughout the career, but at such a high rate, that isn’t a bad thing!
It’s Not Just Dispensing Pills
Pharmacists have to have a wide understanding of all medications, in order to do their job. As a pharmacist, you don’t stand behind a counter, slowly dropping pills one by one into an orange container. You are constantly moving, dealing with people, and helping them choose the best medical regimen to help them.
The pharmacy services you provide are indispensable. Working closely with doctors, you advise dosages and medical selections, as well as advise patients about side effects and interactions with other drugs, foods, and many other factors. You can help patients manage their weight, stress levels, and exercise plans. You can also pick out an over-the-counter substitute for expensive prescriptions.
Pharmacists have a satisfying career that offers them many opportunities to help people. In community pharmacies, you can grow close to the people you see all the time, developing great relationships. You can continuously help people live a better life, and nothing can be more rewarding.
Sara Stricker is part of a team of dedicated writers who contribute hundreds of quality articles to blogs and sites. Follow her @StrickerSara for more articles.
Why Should You Become A Pharmacist?
