The pharmacist is often the first health professional a consumer will talk to about health questions, and the pharmacist is likely to be the last health care team member to consult with patients about their drug treatment. Today's pharmacist not only dispenses prescriptions but also provides information and drug-related primary care. The pharmacist is a specialist in the science of drugs. The educational background of a pharmacist includes knowledge of the chemical structure of drugs. Because the pharmacist often works with a product as well as a service, the pharmacist is educated in business and administration techniques in order to effectively manage a pharmacy operation.
Pharmacy demands that one be dependable and show good judgment.
The responsibility the pharmacist has for the health and well-being of people emphasizes the need for accurate decision making and high ethical standards. Above all, since pharmacy involves working with both patients and other health care professionals, a pharmacist must relate well to others. The majority of pharmacists practice in a community setting. Community pharmacies range in size from the very small prescription shop to the large full-line drug store and can be owned by individuals or large corporations. Community pharmacy requires extensive use of business and management skills.