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What positive and negative pharmacy experiences are you experiencing? Is it worth it these days??
I will be a senior next school year. And I hear there are lots of stress and pressure, and yelling from coworkers, managers, and patients. I was considering pharmacy, but I don't know if I should anymore. I see many pharmacists quitting on YouTube. Should I pursue a PharmD degree, or another career?
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10 answers
Updated
Heather’s Answer
The most pressured jobs right now to my knowledge are in the large retail chains. There are many many fulfilling great jobs in pharmacy. So many avenues you can go down. I do work in retail but at a big box store and I do not experience that. I would stay away from CVS and. Walgreens at this time due to understaffing making it stressful, but otherwise pharmacy is a great job. The other thing I would weigh out is the cost of your education versus your pay. How long will it take you to pay off any loans you will accrue? Do you love pharmacy? The people who are miserable in pharmacy don’t have a passion for it many times.
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Vicki’s Answer
Hey Sadi,
Just a friendly reminder that no job is perfect, but if you're passionate about healthcare, love helping people, and have a knack for math and science, a career in pharmacy could be a fantastic fit for you. Remember, there's a whole world beyond retail pharmacy if that's not your cup of tea.
Imagine yourself as a clinical pharmacist, working in a bustling clinic or a busy hospital. Or perhaps you'd like to specialize in areas like oncology, nuclear pharmacy, specialty medications, or infusions. You could even offer your expertise to long-term care facilities or work in a home care, compounding, or hospice pharmacy.
If you're more business-oriented, consider a role with a pharmaceutical manufacturer as a Sales Rep or Medical Science Liaison. There's also a wealth of opportunities for pharmacists at Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) or within the insurance industry.
Pharmacists make great Certified Diabetic Educators too. With the growing field of health informatics, there's a demand for pharmacists who specialize in this area. Don't forget about the possibilities within academia or research either.
So you see, the world of pharmacy is vast and varied, with plenty of opportunities to explore.
Just a friendly reminder that no job is perfect, but if you're passionate about healthcare, love helping people, and have a knack for math and science, a career in pharmacy could be a fantastic fit for you. Remember, there's a whole world beyond retail pharmacy if that's not your cup of tea.
Imagine yourself as a clinical pharmacist, working in a bustling clinic or a busy hospital. Or perhaps you'd like to specialize in areas like oncology, nuclear pharmacy, specialty medications, or infusions. You could even offer your expertise to long-term care facilities or work in a home care, compounding, or hospice pharmacy.
If you're more business-oriented, consider a role with a pharmaceutical manufacturer as a Sales Rep or Medical Science Liaison. There's also a wealth of opportunities for pharmacists at Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) or within the insurance industry.
Pharmacists make great Certified Diabetic Educators too. With the growing field of health informatics, there's a demand for pharmacists who specialize in this area. Don't forget about the possibilities within academia or research either.
So you see, the world of pharmacy is vast and varied, with plenty of opportunities to explore.
Updated
Martin’s Answer
I am going to answer from the perspective of the pharmacist. In today's healthcare system, I would not do it. Working with a pharmaceutical company or hospital is still an excellent position, but, relatively outside those areas, it is not. It is very difficult to gain and maintain a successful private pharmacy and if you are successful, you will have the big companies looking to buy you out very quickly. There are many problems working for these chains and they include being judged by the number of scripts filled, no matter what the other conditions are in the facility. The pay is quite decent, but, you will be subject to their scheduling, as well as whatever location they need you, even if you have a regular facility you normally work in. The hours can be long and you are responsible for picking up the slack if someone doesn't show. Your quality of work will be based on numbers as they define them. I know this is negative, but I speak to too many pharmacists who hate working for these companies and are always looking for another position. All the major companies seem to be the same. So, the years and expenses you will incur will pay off financially, but, your sanity may suffer.
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Yolanda’s Answer
I agree with Martin. I would not go into pharmacy at this point. It is not like it used to be. The chain pharmacies are not maintaining their business model and will not be able to sustain if they keep going the way they are going. The stress and pressure is not worth it. I would look into becoming a Mental Health NP or PA. They are really in demand and you would have work life balance. I have been a pharmacist for over 20 years, so I don't say this lightly. I just want to be honest with you. I wish you the best of luck!
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Suhani’s Answer
My Pharmacy Journey:
I began as a pharmacy technician to gain exposure to retail pharmacy. While it helped me understand medications and patient interactions, I wish I had participated in structured high school or undergrad programs to guide my learning more effectively.
Pros of Retail Experience Before Pharmacy School:
-Familiarity with common medications and their uses
-Time management and multitasking skills
-Building communication skills with patients and colleagues
-Networking with pharmacy staff
Cons of Retail Experience:
-Burnout from workload
-Limited growth opportunities
-Frustration with insurance issues and being undertrained for certain tasks
Pharmacy School Experience:
-Studying was challenging, but study groups were helpful.
-I struggled without an early mentor to guide me on clinical paths (residency/fellowship).
-Some rotations were difficult, especially specialized areas like pediatrics and ambulatory care.
-I encountered pharmacists who discouraged pursuing the field, likely due to burnout.
-Motivation came from trusted peers and self-determination.
As a Pharmacist:
-Starting during the pandemic tested my resilience due to high demands (e.g., COVID tests and vaccines).
-Retail pharmacy honed my multitasking and time-management skills.
-Unfortunately, retail pharmacy is changing with store closures, reduced hours, and fewer full-time opportunities. Float positions are more common but require flexibility with travel.
Advice for You:
-Have a plan before entering pharmacy school.
-Keep an open mind for niche areas like residencies or fellowships.
-Network early to gain insights and guidance from professionals.
Pharmacy is rewarding but can be stressful. Explore all your options and stay connected with mentors who can help guide your career path.
Best of luck with your decision!
I began as a pharmacy technician to gain exposure to retail pharmacy. While it helped me understand medications and patient interactions, I wish I had participated in structured high school or undergrad programs to guide my learning more effectively.
Pros of Retail Experience Before Pharmacy School:
-Familiarity with common medications and their uses
-Time management and multitasking skills
-Building communication skills with patients and colleagues
-Networking with pharmacy staff
Cons of Retail Experience:
-Burnout from workload
-Limited growth opportunities
-Frustration with insurance issues and being undertrained for certain tasks
Pharmacy School Experience:
-Studying was challenging, but study groups were helpful.
-I struggled without an early mentor to guide me on clinical paths (residency/fellowship).
-Some rotations were difficult, especially specialized areas like pediatrics and ambulatory care.
-I encountered pharmacists who discouraged pursuing the field, likely due to burnout.
-Motivation came from trusted peers and self-determination.
As a Pharmacist:
-Starting during the pandemic tested my resilience due to high demands (e.g., COVID tests and vaccines).
-Retail pharmacy honed my multitasking and time-management skills.
-Unfortunately, retail pharmacy is changing with store closures, reduced hours, and fewer full-time opportunities. Float positions are more common but require flexibility with travel.
Advice for You:
-Have a plan before entering pharmacy school.
-Keep an open mind for niche areas like residencies or fellowships.
-Network early to gain insights and guidance from professionals.
Pharmacy is rewarding but can be stressful. Explore all your options and stay connected with mentors who can help guide your career path.
Best of luck with your decision!
Updated
Erin’s Answer
I think it is great that you are considering a career as a health professional! In my opinion, a PharmD degree can open the door to many types of career opportunities and it is important to find what fits you best. Healthcare environments, regardless of profession, are often stressful as patients try to navigate the medical system during a time when they are often most vulnerable. As a pharmacist you can be in a position to help them understand and access medications and get the best outcomes. Some pharmacists thrive in a busy environment, working with patients directly. Others love working in a hospital setting in areas like the emergency room or critical care units. You can also work behind the scenes, in pharmacies that supply medications for long term care facilities or other institutional settings. Some pharmacists specialize in caring for patients with certain conditions such as cancer or mental health. Others want to work in settings that serve certain populations, such as rural health or underserved communities. There are even opportunities in information technology, regulatory agencies, health insurance companies, and more. My best advice is to choose a pharmacy program that will provide you with opportunities to explore these different career paths through your clinical rotations, career counseling, and mentoring programs with alumni. Networking early in your pharmacy education helps you understand the education path needed for these various positions, with some requiring residency training. Understanding your strengths and the type of environment you thrive in will really help you pick the best route to go. Every job will have its challenges, but if you are purposeful in finding a setting most likely to fit you, then those difficult moments will be balanced by the reminder of why you were called to serve in healthcare.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sadi!
Positive and Negative Pharmacy Experiences
Positive Experiences:
Job Stability and Demand: The pharmacy profession has historically offered a stable career path with a consistent demand for pharmacists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for pharmacists is projected to grow by about 2% from 2021 to 2031, which is slower than average but still indicates a need for pharmacists in various settings.
Diverse Career Opportunities: Pharmacists have the opportunity to work in various environments, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, and academia. This diversity allows individuals to find a niche that suits their interests and skills.
Patient Interaction: Many pharmacists enjoy the aspect of patient care, providing medication counseling, health screenings, and immunizations. Building relationships with patients can be rewarding as pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare teams.
Professional Growth: There are opportunities for continuing education and specialization within the field of pharmacy. Pharmacists can pursue certifications in areas such as oncology, geriatrics, or pharmacotherapy, enhancing their expertise and career prospects.
Impact on Public Health: Pharmacists contribute significantly to public health initiatives by promoting medication adherence, conducting health screenings, and providing vaccinations. This role can lead to a sense of fulfillment knowing that they are making a difference in their communities.
Negative Experiences:
Workplace Stress: Many pharmacists report high levels of stress due to workload demands, tight deadlines, and the pressure of ensuring patient safety while managing multiple tasks simultaneously. The fast-paced environment can lead to burnout.
Staffing Shortages: The pharmacy profession faces staffing shortages that can exacerbate stress levels among existing staff members. When pharmacies are understaffed, remaining employees often have to take on additional responsibilities without adequate support.
Customer Interactions: Dealing with difficult patients or customers can be challenging and emotionally draining for pharmacists. Complaints about wait times or misunderstandings regarding prescriptions may lead to confrontational situations.
Administrative Burden: Pharmacists often face significant administrative tasks related to insurance claims processing and regulatory compliance that can detract from their clinical responsibilities and patient interactions.
Job Dissatisfaction Leading to Turnover: Reports indicate that many pharmacists are leaving the profession due to dissatisfaction with working conditions or seeking better work-life balance elsewhere. This trend has been highlighted in various online platforms where former pharmacists share their experiences.
Is It Worth It? Deciding whether pursuing a PharmD degree is worth it depends on individual circumstances and career aspirations:
If you value job stability, diverse opportunities within healthcare, and have an interest in patient care, then pursuing a PharmD could be worthwhile.
However, if you are concerned about workplace stressors such as high-pressure environments or negative interactions with coworkers or patients based on current trends shared online (e.g., YouTube), it may be prudent to explore other healthcare careers that align more closely with your values regarding work-life balance and job satisfaction.
Ultimately, it is essential to weigh both the positive aspects of the pharmacy profession against its challenges while considering your personal goals and preferences before making a decision about pursuing a PharmD degree or exploring alternative career paths in healthcare.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Provides comprehensive data on employment projections for various professions including pharmacy-related roles.
American Pharmacists Association (APhA) - Offers insights into the pharmacy profession including trends affecting job satisfaction among pharmacists.
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) - Focuses on issues facing community pharmacies including staffing challenges and workplace dynamics affecting pharmacist well-being.
God Bless You!
JC.
Positive and Negative Pharmacy Experiences
Positive Experiences:
Job Stability and Demand: The pharmacy profession has historically offered a stable career path with a consistent demand for pharmacists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for pharmacists is projected to grow by about 2% from 2021 to 2031, which is slower than average but still indicates a need for pharmacists in various settings.
Diverse Career Opportunities: Pharmacists have the opportunity to work in various environments, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, and academia. This diversity allows individuals to find a niche that suits their interests and skills.
Patient Interaction: Many pharmacists enjoy the aspect of patient care, providing medication counseling, health screenings, and immunizations. Building relationships with patients can be rewarding as pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare teams.
Professional Growth: There are opportunities for continuing education and specialization within the field of pharmacy. Pharmacists can pursue certifications in areas such as oncology, geriatrics, or pharmacotherapy, enhancing their expertise and career prospects.
Impact on Public Health: Pharmacists contribute significantly to public health initiatives by promoting medication adherence, conducting health screenings, and providing vaccinations. This role can lead to a sense of fulfillment knowing that they are making a difference in their communities.
Negative Experiences:
Workplace Stress: Many pharmacists report high levels of stress due to workload demands, tight deadlines, and the pressure of ensuring patient safety while managing multiple tasks simultaneously. The fast-paced environment can lead to burnout.
Staffing Shortages: The pharmacy profession faces staffing shortages that can exacerbate stress levels among existing staff members. When pharmacies are understaffed, remaining employees often have to take on additional responsibilities without adequate support.
Customer Interactions: Dealing with difficult patients or customers can be challenging and emotionally draining for pharmacists. Complaints about wait times or misunderstandings regarding prescriptions may lead to confrontational situations.
Administrative Burden: Pharmacists often face significant administrative tasks related to insurance claims processing and regulatory compliance that can detract from their clinical responsibilities and patient interactions.
Job Dissatisfaction Leading to Turnover: Reports indicate that many pharmacists are leaving the profession due to dissatisfaction with working conditions or seeking better work-life balance elsewhere. This trend has been highlighted in various online platforms where former pharmacists share their experiences.
Is It Worth It? Deciding whether pursuing a PharmD degree is worth it depends on individual circumstances and career aspirations:
If you value job stability, diverse opportunities within healthcare, and have an interest in patient care, then pursuing a PharmD could be worthwhile.
However, if you are concerned about workplace stressors such as high-pressure environments or negative interactions with coworkers or patients based on current trends shared online (e.g., YouTube), it may be prudent to explore other healthcare careers that align more closely with your values regarding work-life balance and job satisfaction.
Ultimately, it is essential to weigh both the positive aspects of the pharmacy profession against its challenges while considering your personal goals and preferences before making a decision about pursuing a PharmD degree or exploring alternative career paths in healthcare.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Provides comprehensive data on employment projections for various professions including pharmacy-related roles.
American Pharmacists Association (APhA) - Offers insights into the pharmacy profession including trends affecting job satisfaction among pharmacists.
National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) - Focuses on issues facing community pharmacies including staffing challenges and workplace dynamics affecting pharmacist well-being.
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
It all depends on which aspect of pharmacy you’re looking of going into and of course it depends on the environment of the establishment and your coworkers. I presently work at an inpatient hospital pharmacy as a Medication History Technician. Pharmacists can have several roles whether that’s as a clinical pharmacist for units within the hospital, as they work along side providers and other healthcare staff, inpatient pharmacists that reside purely in the pharmacy and check orders while working along side technicians, and oncology pharmacists that work in the oncology center where they work more along side other pharmacists only, as the technicians are separated by a protective barrier due to the hazardous drugs. Honestly, the oncology pharmacists are the least stressed. It’s quiet and laid back. Everyone else has their positives and negatives whether that’s having a heavy workload, drama, not enough staff, and so forth. Granted no job is perfect, but I’d say make sure that you’re passionate about pharmacology and healthcare before entering such a field.
I do have a strong interest in pharmacy, I feel a little hesitant about the pharmacy environments and stress load once one becomes a pharmacist. I never considered an oncology pharmacist, so I will look into that. Thank you for taking the time to respond to my question!
Sadi
Updated
Chelsea’s Answer
Sadi! The best way to get a feel for Pharmacy is to be a technician first. The online info says we don’t make a lot of money which is true at first. You have to climb the ladder and be patient. The pharmacists rely on us heavily as they do need us as much as we need them. At times we run the pharmacy because we do a lot of the work. (Not that pharmacists don’t work). I work in hospital and have been doing great things and work with oncology mainly breast. (We are basically speciality offsite clinic for outpatient infusions). It is very rewarding! I make very good money with my 15 plus years experience which includes retail. I have written 3 continuing education presentations, presented 2, been involved with ASHP and PTEC. Involved with my Hospitals education program where we make pharm techs and dabble in things building my resume so that I can better my career and make a difference in not only my life, but the patients care and even a student or two if i am lucky. Good Luck!
Updated
Jordan’s Answer
To answer your question here are the pros and cons of a PharmD from my perspective as someone who's worked in retail, hospital, and now informatics:
*Pros:
High Pay, you'll make six figures no problem post-grad
High Demand (this is regional but I don't think you'll ever struggle to find work if you are not too picky),
Diverse career options and ability to specialize (I've done retail, hospital, and now IT),
Collaboration with other professionals like nurses and doctors who trust you to be the drug expert
*Cons
The degree itself is expensive and you'll come out of school with a good amount of debt
Pharmacy school itself is demanding
The jobs can be quite demanding and high stress. You'll feel rushed a lot and it can be a little draining
Healthcare is constantly changing, although there's plenty of opportunities for pharmacists now there's no guarantee we won't get squeezed out by nurses or technicians. I personally don't believe that but worth noting in fairness
Just my $0.02 but the pros outweigh the cons. I have a degree as a valued healthcare professional and can provide for my family even if the job is a bit stressful.
*Pros:
High Pay, you'll make six figures no problem post-grad
High Demand (this is regional but I don't think you'll ever struggle to find work if you are not too picky),
Diverse career options and ability to specialize (I've done retail, hospital, and now IT),
Collaboration with other professionals like nurses and doctors who trust you to be the drug expert
*Cons
The degree itself is expensive and you'll come out of school with a good amount of debt
Pharmacy school itself is demanding
The jobs can be quite demanding and high stress. You'll feel rushed a lot and it can be a little draining
Healthcare is constantly changing, although there's plenty of opportunities for pharmacists now there's no guarantee we won't get squeezed out by nurses or technicians. I personally don't believe that but worth noting in fairness
Just my $0.02 but the pros outweigh the cons. I have a degree as a valued healthcare professional and can provide for my family even if the job is a bit stressful.