The need for retail pharmacists is strong and the ability to attract top talent into large chain and independent community stores remains competitive. If you have a knack for business, you might want to consider opening your own pharmacy or buying out a retiring pharmacist. There are brokers who will match you up with the right pharmacy and assist with putting together business plans and cash flow analysis for lenders. The advantages of owning your own pharmacy include autonomy, the ability to offer personalized service, the ability to exercise complete control over the pharmacy operations and the opportunity for greater financial rewards.
Typical responsibilities for a retail pharmacist include: preparing and dispensing medication while ensuring accurate and appropriate dosage, selling over the counter (OTC) medication, counseling and advising patients of any side effects or potential drug interactions, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels, offering diabetes screening service, and keeping up-to-date with current pharmacy practice.
There are several advantages to working in a retail environment. Pharmacists directly interact with patients making them feel like they are really making a difference. Retail pharmacy jobs offer flexible schedules that include days, nights, part-time, full-time, and locum work. Retail jobs usually offer pay on the upper end of the salary scale and are well-known for lucrative sign-on bonuses of up to $30,000.00. Although pharmacists usually begin at the staff level, the shortage of pharmacists has led to quick advancement into management. There are opportunities to manage a pharmacy or with additional field training, move into a regional or district manager position with increased responsibilities of managing a larger territory and corresponding closely with corporate leadership teams to ensure global success.
Although the pay and bonuses are attractive, larger retail chains who run 24 hr stores with drive-through windows require long days and because of the shortage of pharmacist help, time off requests can sometimes be a struggle. Retail jobs offers a fast-paced environment and can become overwhelming when confronted with a busy store that is not properly staffed or when having to deal with ever-changing insurance benefits and the effects they have imposed on customers.