4 answers
Cameron
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
3
Questions
Asked
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I am interested in being a pharmacist. I work best in an environment with independence, fast pace, and structural environment. is this a good fit for me?
As a pharmacist am I able to work independently? I enjoy fast pace working while under pressure, and a daily uniform scheduled work environment. Is this a good fit for me
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4 answers
William Hsieh
Pharmacy Student
7
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Cameron, to put it simply, it does seem like you're a great match for this role. As a pharmacy manager, it's essential to be self-reliant and have the ability to guide teams of technicians and student interns. If you thrive under pressure and appreciate a set work schedule, a career in retail pharmacy could be just the ticket for you. You'll find these types of pharmacies in familiar places like CVS or Walgreens.
If you're looking for a role that will get your heart racing, consider becoming an Emergency Room pharmacist. This position requires quick decision-making skills and the ability to manage stress effectively. On the other hand, clinical pharmacy, which includes hospital pharmacists, offers a deeper dive into patient-based challenges. However, your preference for a structured environment will significantly influence your decision. If you prefer a setting with more predictable and routine patient interactions, a community retail pharmacy might be your best bet. But, if you're open to a setting where anything can happen, a hospital pharmacy could pique your interest. I should mention that unexpected situations can and do arise in retail pharmacies, as I've experienced frequently.
In general, any role in pharmacy will likely offer a fast-paced environment (sometimes too fast), a structured schedule (if that's what you mean by consistent hours), and a certain degree of pressure.
I hope this answers your question!
If you're looking for a role that will get your heart racing, consider becoming an Emergency Room pharmacist. This position requires quick decision-making skills and the ability to manage stress effectively. On the other hand, clinical pharmacy, which includes hospital pharmacists, offers a deeper dive into patient-based challenges. However, your preference for a structured environment will significantly influence your decision. If you prefer a setting with more predictable and routine patient interactions, a community retail pharmacy might be your best bet. But, if you're open to a setting where anything can happen, a hospital pharmacy could pique your interest. I should mention that unexpected situations can and do arise in retail pharmacies, as I've experienced frequently.
In general, any role in pharmacy will likely offer a fast-paced environment (sometimes too fast), a structured schedule (if that's what you mean by consistent hours), and a certain degree of pressure.
I hope this answers your question!
Brianna Martin, PharmD, BCPS
Pharmacist
11
Answers
Bargersville, Indiana
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
It certainly seems like you'd be an excellent match. I've spent more than a decade in the hospital environment. Working in the inpatient pharmacy can be quite dynamic, especially when medication orders are rapidly coming in or when dealing with a code/critical patient. Despite its brisk pace, it's a well-structured setting. There are quieter moments too, but typically, there's always some work to be done. Serving on the units is also fulfilling. There's always a medication to dose/adjust/monitor, a patient to educate, or rounds to participate in. You even have the opportunity to attend codes, which can be extremely fast-paced, albeit less structured. It would be beneficial for you to arrange opportunities to observe a pharmacist in different roles. I strongly endorse this. Currently, I'm in a role that lets me work from home full-time, showing that there are numerous possibilities beyond retail and hospital work.
Justin Singleton
Sales Operations
10
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Hello Cameron,
I spent a few years working in a retail pharmacy, and I can tell you that it's a vibrant environment. If you choose to work in a retail setting, you'll find yourself constantly engaging with both colleagues and customers. Even though the process of filling a prescription is often a solo task, your overall day will be filled with lively interactions.
The pace can be quick, and there might be a hint of pressure, especially during peak hours. But remember, these challenges often bring out the best in us and help us grow.
And remember, the field of pharmacy is vast. There are plenty of other roles that a pharmacist can explore which are less customer-oriented than retail. So, you have a world of opportunities waiting for you!
I spent a few years working in a retail pharmacy, and I can tell you that it's a vibrant environment. If you choose to work in a retail setting, you'll find yourself constantly engaging with both colleagues and customers. Even though the process of filling a prescription is often a solo task, your overall day will be filled with lively interactions.
The pace can be quick, and there might be a hint of pressure, especially during peak hours. But remember, these challenges often bring out the best in us and help us grow.
And remember, the field of pharmacy is vast. There are plenty of other roles that a pharmacist can explore which are less customer-oriented than retail. So, you have a world of opportunities waiting for you!
Breanna Giang
Pharmacy Technician
1
Answer
West Jordan, Utah
Updated
Breanna’s Answer
Hi Cameron,
Pharmacy seems like a perfect fit for you! While it's often misunderstood as a field for socially-awkward individuals, the reality is quite different. Most pharmacies are filled with vibrant, engaging professionals. While there's a degree of independence involved, it's also a team-oriented environment where you'll interact with pharmacy technicians.
Your role will require a solid grasp of medical topics and medicine, and you'll also need to be adept at verifying data entry, insurance claims, and dispensing, especially in a retail setting. In a hospital setting, you'll have more opportunities to work independently, given the diverse responsibilities a pharmacist has.
Pharmacies can be high-pressure environments, but if you thrive under stress, you're already a step ahead. Recruiters often value this trait. The work schedule is generally consistent, particularly in retail. Here's to your bright future in pharmacy!
Pharmacy seems like a perfect fit for you! While it's often misunderstood as a field for socially-awkward individuals, the reality is quite different. Most pharmacies are filled with vibrant, engaging professionals. While there's a degree of independence involved, it's also a team-oriented environment where you'll interact with pharmacy technicians.
Your role will require a solid grasp of medical topics and medicine, and you'll also need to be adept at verifying data entry, insurance claims, and dispensing, especially in a retail setting. In a hospital setting, you'll have more opportunities to work independently, given the diverse responsibilities a pharmacist has.
Pharmacies can be high-pressure environments, but if you thrive under stress, you're already a step ahead. Recruiters often value this trait. The work schedule is generally consistent, particularly in retail. Here's to your bright future in pharmacy!