Army pharmacists: The medication experts

By Jennifer Clampet, William Beaumont Army Medical CenterOctober 5, 2012

Army pharmacists: The medication experts
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Army pharmacists: The medication experts
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Army pharmacists: The medication experts
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Army pharmacists: The medication experts
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FORT BLISS, Texas -- The profession of pharmacy is more than a "lick, stick, and pour" dispensary role.

Pharmacists are often seen as the pill dispensers -- handing your prescription to you across the counter with instructions on how to take your medicine.

Pharmacy professionals take great pride in giving their best to Soldiers, retirees and beneficiaries. The professionals review medication profiles for potential drug interactions, counsel and understand biochemical mechanisms of actions of drugs, drugs' uses, therapeutic roles, side effects and monitoring parameters.

Pharmacists are considered the experts on medication. They also advise patients and health care providers on which medication to choose for the indication and act as an educated intermediary.

In short, pharmacy professionals do more than refill your prescriptions.

William Beaumont Army Medical Center proudly recognizes its 110 pharmacists and technicians on staff during National Pharmacy Month.

This month pharmacy staff will host public and private events to help educate Soldiers, beneficiaries and other health care professionals on just what pharmacists and technicians do and most importantly how they learn to do what they do.

Pharmacists have a bachelor of science in pharmacy or doctor of pharmacy degrees. With the doctor of pharmacy degree, a pharmacist can become a government pharmacist, retail pharmacist, hospital pharmacist, educator and more.

Clinical and research pharmacists pursue and complete residencies and fellowships. Pharmacists are supported by pharmacy technicians, who play a vital role in patient care as well. Pharmacy technicians are certified through a course and final exam.

Throughout this month of recognition, the Department of Pharmacy will strive to show beneficiaries just how it is "Serving to Heal ... Honored to Serve."

Related Links:

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