Navigation trail

• Home page
• Types of jobs
• Health care
• Community pharmacist: Training

Community pharmacist: Training

Community pharmacists can choose to undertake further postgraduate training, such as a clinical diploma, to develop their knowledge and skills. There are a range of continuing education and postgraduate courses available in various aspects of community practice.

Since April 2005, a new contractual framework for community pharmacy has been in operation. Under the new framework, pharmacy services are divided into three categories: essential services, advanced services and enhanced services. Employers and educational providers have offered a range of short courses in order for pharmacists to perform the increasing range of work activities that form part of their role.

In May 2006 regulations to allow pharmacists to independently prescribe licensed medicine for any medical condition (with the exception of controlled drugs) came into effect. Pharmacists wishing to prescribe independently are required to complete the relevant training courses accredited by their professional body.

Many employers provide well-structured, intensive training programmes of varying length. All aim to provide new entrants with a broad overview of the company and offer the chance to gain experience in various retailing areas. As well as pharmacy-related training, you will receive training in:

• communication skills;
• teamwork;
• problem-solving;
• decision-making;
• negotiation and influencing.

Pharmacy is a profession which is constantly changing and evolving and further training forms part of a pharmacist's continuing professional development (CPD). CPD is a mandatory requirement under the Code of Ethics for all practising pharmacists.

It is necessary for pharmacists to keep abreast of developments in drug research including the new drugs that are developed and come on the market and the new ways of treating conditions with drugs and the government policy on drug treatment. This will involve reading professional journals and publications and attending courses and training sessions throughout your career.

AGCAS

Written by Catherine Gregory, Bradford University

Last updated:

June 2009

© Copyright AGCAS & Graduate Prospects Ltd | Disclaimer