The Value of Certification Specialty certification in pharmacy offers numerous potential benefits of significant value to patients, other health professionals, employers, health care systems, and the general public. Pharmacists certified in a specialty area are highly trained, highly-skilled professionals who have clearly demonstrated their ability to identify, resolve, and prevent drug therapy problems in their practice areas. They have taken the initiative to seek additional education and experience in a specialized pharmacy field, exhibiting a high level of commitment to the patients they serve and to the profession of pharmacy. Certified pharmacist specialists function as valuable members of treatment teams, using their advanced knowledge and expertise towards the goal of optimal, cost-effective drug treatment to meet each patient s unique needs. Employers can feel secure that the knowledge base and skill levels of the certified pharmacist specialists they hire have been tested through a rigorous, objective, peer-determined process.
Certification can also provide a personal reward for pharmacist specialists.
Preparing for the certification exam offers an opportunity to increase advanced, specialized knowledge. Specialty certification is a means of informing others of the individual s educational and practice accomplishments, differentiating the specialist from colleagues. It is a way to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills independent of and in addition to, a degree program or licensure. Many certificants have reported enhanced respect from colleagues in other health professions. Still others have received reimbursement from third party payers because their skills and knowledge are validated through certification.