Are you interested in studying a UK MPharm degree and becoming a pharmacist? Our Pharmacy admissions advisor wrote this article as a hospital pharmacist to share what being a pharmacist is about. He debunks 3 popular myths on becoming a pharmacist below. Be sure to check out our Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples if you are applying to study an MPharm degree this year.
Myth 1 – Being a pharmacist is all about dispensing medicines
A pharmacist can work in many different sectors, including community, hospital, industry and academia.
As a hospital pharmacist, I spend very little time in dispensing activities. I spend most of my day seeing patients, completing drug histories, clinically screening drug charts and working with the ward team to advise on optimal medicines use. I also take part in a on call service where I deal with urgent and emergency issues when out of hours.
I have also worked in community pharmacies, where there is also a large focus on delivering patient services like medicines use reviews, smoking cessation advice, blood pressure monitoring and flu vaccinations.
Myth 2 – Pharmacists makes medicines on a daily basis
Almost no pharmacists make medicines in the dispensary, as the modern and efficient supply chain means that even special products can be ordered and delivered in a timely manner.
However, in a hospital, the aseptic unit does manufacture intravenous chemotherapy for patients and is made under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Myth 3 – Studying pharmacy is mainly focused on pharmacology, drug development and research
As the pharmacy profession is developing and changing frequently, new roles are constantly established. This means that the education of pharmacists is also constantly being updated.
In addition to the scientific knowledge of medicines, the degree also has a large focus on human physiology and diseases, delivering pharmaceutical care, pharmacy law and policies, clinical skills and knowledge to prepare the student for a career as a modern pharmacist. The course is designed to not only give you the theoretical knowledge, but also how to apply it into real life scenarios.
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We hope you enjoyed our article on myths in becoming a pharmacist. Got additional questions on your career after studying a UK MPharm degree, or need help with your UCAS Pharmacy application? Ask our advisor a free question!
