Pharmacy is the medical science that links science with chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, technical aspects and it is responsible for the discovery, development, manufacture, preparation, distribution, safety and proper utilization of drugs and medicines. It is also involved in the medical education, professional training, pharmaceutical marketing and pharmaceutical sales. In a broader sense, pharmacy provides consultation and advice to the healthcare providers on the drug specifications and risks and on the cost of various drugs and cures. This also involves the conduct of research in the medical field and drug manufacturing and development.
However, as an individual who needs to access pharmacy services, he/she should be aware of the different types of services available. Pharmacy helps individuals manage their medication needs. It is equally important for the healthcare providers to understand the importance of pharmacy. Pharmacy technicians work with pharmacist staff, registered nurses or other healthcare providers and manage the stocks of medicines in a pharmacy. They also make necessary arrangements for the maintenance of medicines and record each one.
Pharmacy technicians help pharmacists by offering consultation regarding the prescription plans, discount cards or bulk buying. Some pharmacists may want to order test strips, insulin or sterile injections for patients with diabetes, HIV/AIDS or cancer. These professionals also offer advice and educate clients on health care questions.
Another key role of pharmacists is to educate patients on the proper use and management of medications. For example, it may be advisable for patients suffering from asthma to follow a medication regimen that includes an inhaler and anti-inflammatory medications. Similarly, it may be important for people suffering from heart disease to follow a regimen that includes low-fat or low-calorie foods, fruits, vegetables, fish or legumes and whole grain products. The objective of pharmacy is to prevent the abuse of drugs and ensure adequate patient care. As such, pharmacists work closely with healthcare providers to design and implement patient care plans and assist them in the use of medications.
Pharmacy technicians must be licensed by the state they work for. They can obtain the appropriate certification through the American Pharmacy Testing and Inspection Commission (APITC). In order to be a pharmacy technician, one needs to have the ability to type and read pharmacy forms. In addition, they need to have the ability to follow directions for preparing, dispensing and filling medications. Pharmacy technicians are usually employed by drugstores, hospitals, rehab centers, long term care facilities, clinics and other healthcare centers. Many pharmacists work as independent contractors.
Pharmacy technicians help to maintain the integrity of the prescriptions of the pharmacy and ensure that medicines are correctly prescribed and administered. This is because most doctors rely on pharmacists to recommend the right medicines for patients. In addition, many hospitals and long term care facilities depend on pharmacists to recommend medicines and prescribe treatments when needed. On a national level, pharmacists work as independent contractors to promote healthcare, prescribe medicines and oversee pharmacy operations. As of the year 2021, the number of people employed in pharmacy-related fields is expected to grow substantially.
