Health Careers
Pharmacist
Professional Activities
Pharmacists are specialists in the science and clinical use of medications. Pharmacists have to understand how drugs work in the body, as well as the chemical composition and other physical properties of drugs. For each prescription dispensed, pharmacists must confirm that the information provided by the prescriber is complete, that the new medication will not interact with other medications taken, and that the medication and dosage are appropriate for the health condition being treated. In outpatient settings, pharmacists educate patients on special storage conditions and how to take the medication.
In Alaska, pharmacists work in hospitals, nursing homes, private and chain drug stores, and with the Indian Health Service.
Educational Requirements
- Graduation from high school with coursework in chemistry and biology.
- A minimum of two years of accredited college work prior to entering pharmacy school.
- Graduation from a four-year pharmacy school awarding the doctor of pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. Generally the first 3 years consist of classroom work and labs while the 4th year consists of internships in various pharmacy settings.
- Though not a requirement, many students are going on to do residencies after graduation. Residencies are available in both community and hospital settings. Many hospitals require a residency in order to be hired.
- Must pass two exams: NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam-a knowledge exam) and MPJE (Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam- a law exam)
- Alaska requires a license to practice as a pharmacist.
- Pharmacists are required to obtain 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their license.
Academic Programs
There are no accredited schools in Alaska. To learn more about colleges of pharmacy in the U.S. contact:
The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)
20 North Clark Street, Suite 2500
Chicago, IL 60602-5109
Phone: (312) 664-3575
Fax: (312)664-4652
email:
Web site: http://www.acpe-accredit.org/ (See Student-Programs)
Contacts
State Contacts:
For licensing information, contact:
State of Alaska
Department of Commerce and Economic Development
Division of Occupational Licensing, Board of Pharmacy
PO Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Phone: (907) 465-2589
Fax: (907) 465-2974
Email:
Web site: http://www.commerce.state.ak.us/occ/ppha.htm
Nancy Davis, Executive Director
Alaska Pharmacists Association
203 W. 15th Ave. #100
Anchorage, Alaska 99501
Phone: (907) 563-8880
Fax: (907) 563-7880
Email:
Web site: http://www.alaskapharmacy.org
National Contact:
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
1100 15th Street NW #400
Washington D.C. 20005-1707
Phone: (202) 628-4410
Toll free: (800) 237-2742
Fax: (202) 783-2351
Web site: http://www.aphanet.org/
This page was last updated by Janice Troyer on July 23, 2007
