Retail Pharmacist

Under the direction of the Retail Pharmacy Manager, the Retail Staff Pharmacist is responsible for the daily operations of the Retail Pharmacy according to Salinas Valley Health policies, standards of practice of the profession, and State and Federal laws. Pursuant to the order of a licensed prescriber, the Retail Staff Pharmacist will be responsible for preparing and providing appropriate pharmaceuticals to patients. The Retail Staff Pharmacist will also, at a minimum, provide drug information and counseling to patients in accordance with regulatory requirements. This position requires a high-level of responsibility and pharmaceutical knowledge. Effective communication skills and great customer service are required of the Retail Staff Pharmacist in order to achieve successful delivery of care in the Retail Pharmacy practice environment. The Retail Staff Pharmacist must be able to recognize and identify symptoms such that the patient may be given a recommendation for a benign condition or be referred to a higher-level of care for further evaluation. The Retail Pharmacy provides increased access to medical care for all of the patients it serves by providing accurate drug information and addressing patient concerns and needs. The expertise and willingness of the Retail Staff Pharmacist to assist patients is paramount to the success of the Retail Pharmacy.

1. Ensures that the patient's pharmaceutical needs are effectively met by accurately verifying prescription orders and dispensing pharmaceuticals in a timely manner.

1. Reviews and confirms that prescriptions are written for a legitimate reason under the usual scope of practice of the Prescriber.
2. Ensures the appropriateness of drug, dose, and frequency for each medication ordered before it is dispensed. Clarifies any ambiguities with the Prescriber.
3. Evaluates patient history to assess medication compliance.

1. Evaluates laboratory results and recommends adjustments to therapies as appropriate.

1. Prepares and dispenses prescriptions for patients or directly supervises qualified Retail Pharmacy Technician(s) in these functions. Verifies prescriptions prepared by Retail Pharmacy Technician(s) before they are dispensed to the patient.
2. Provides patient education and, as applicable, assists with coordination of care interacting with: designated family members, patient caregivers, social services, and other healthcare providers.
3. Serves as a resource for drug information, including: indications, doses, routes, side effects, adverse reactions, drug interactions, pharmacokinetics, and product availability. Utilizes appropriate reference materials when necessary.

1. Is competent in the range of treatment needed by the following patients ages served by the Retail Pharmacy:

1. Pediatric b) Adolescent c) Adult d) Geriatric

1. Communicates the importance of taking medication as prescribed.

1. Exercises professional judgment, providing therapeutic and drug information to patients and other health professionals.

1. Listens carefully to patients and interprets their needs, offering information and advice as appropriate.
2. Documents clear clinical progress notes to support patient safety oversight related to medication use processes: prescribing, dispensing, patient compliance, and monitoring patient outcomes.

1. Accurately processes insurance claims by calculating correct doses and days supplies to limit rejection of payment whenever possible.

1. Initiates prior authorization process when required.

1. Recommends therapeutically equivalent medications to Prescribers when appropriate to improve patient access to medications or to assist with lowering patient copay amounts.

1. Participates in the Salinas Valley Health Hospital discharge process, streamlining services related to discharge prescriptions.

1. Is a role model for departmental behavior and provides and promotes a positive working environment for Retail Pharmacy staff to ensure strong employee morale, motivation, and productivity.

1. Maintains accuracy and confidentiality of patient Electronic Health Record records.

1. Ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for temperature monitoring.

1. Maintains security of the pharmacy and control substances.

1. Performs assigned duties to ensure the Retail Pharmacy's role and function in the Healthcare System supports the delivery of the highest possible standard of patient care and customer service.

1. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education: PharmD or Masters in Pharmacy required
Licensure: Current California Registered Pharmacist license required.
Experience: A minimum of two (2) years experience as a Retail Pharmacist.
The hourly rate for this position is $75.20 - $91.41. The range displayed on this job posting reflects the target for new hire salaries for this position.