Are all pharmacists qualified?
Yes/no. It depends what you call a pharmacist. Qualified pharmacists are the third largest healthcare profession in the UK.
In a pharmacy – which is a dynamic site of healthcare – there are several roles, including:
- Pharmacists (qualified). They have done a 4 year degree, and perhaps extra qualifications
- Pharmacy technician
- Medicines counter assistant.
What is a qualified pharmacist?
Pharmacists are experts in medicines, and their use.
They train as scientists and clinicians and have a unique set of skills and knowledge. Pharmacists advise patients on how to use their medicines safely and effectively, and work alongside other healthcare professionals to recommend the best medicine for them.
They work in many different settings wherever there are medicines such as:
- Community (local) pharmacies
- Hospitals
- General practice.
Increasingly pharmacists are offering other health services, such as vaccination and NHS health checks. Some are also prescribers like doctors, and can prescribe medicines on prescription.
