The Pfizer Guide to Careers in - College of Pharmacy

questions kick in.” For instance, issues that arise include: Patients’ claims
are denied for any number of reasons, a product isn’t on the insurer’s formulary,
or prior authorization from the insurance carrier is needed for a
very expensive product.
All in all, Rosato feels that whether a pharmacist practices in a chain or
elsewhere, a need to educate patients does exist. “I feel we as an industry
need to help patients to see their pharmacy as a total health care center, not
simply a pill dispensary,” says Rosato. “Patients should be encouraged to
spend more time talking with us. They should tell their pharmacist what
other medications they’re taking, what vitamins, what minerals, what herbal
supplements. This is all vital information. So vital, in fact, that some chains
are now setting up pharmacist counseling sessions for patients with chronic
diseases to help them manage their health.”
fast facts
>>>What do you need?
• Endurance to work long hours, often standing up
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and heavy workloads
• Ability to endure high levels of stress
• A desire to help people and improve the quality of their lives
• A strong ability to communicate clearly and effectively
• A team approach and a positive attitude
What’s it take?
• A current, active license to practice pharmacy
• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree*
Where will you practice?
• Traditional chain drugstores
• Supermarket pharmacies
• Mass merchandiser pharmacies
*Students graduating after Spring 2004 will be required to have a PharmD degree
30 the pfizer guide > chain drug store pharmacist