Clinical pharmacist
According to Marla Ahlgrimm, a clinical pharmacist often works in a hospital setting. They walk side-by-side with their patients’ physicians to come up with the most effective treatment option. They determine which drugs have the most acceptable side effects and what medications won’t have negative interactions with one another. A clinical pharmacist typically has a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and completes a full two-year residency.
Poison control pharmacist
If you have ever called the poison control hotline, you have likely spoken with a poison control pharmacist. This, says Marla Ahlgrimm, is a person who works with healthcare professionals as well as the general public to discuss drugs, chemicals, and their toxicity. A poison control pharmacist may also consult with healthcare providers in emergency situations when traditional treatment options are not working.
Industry pharmacist
Marla Ahlgrimm explains that an industry pharmacist works with researchers to help bring new and more effective drugs to the marketplace. Many people in this position work an internship or fellowship program during college.
Hospital pharmacist
A hospital pharmacist is similar to a clinical pharmacist, says Marla Ahlgrimm. However, a pharmacist working at a hospital may have a more hands-on role with their patients. They might, for example, prepare IV solutions and administer ointments or creams. They are also responsible for supervising pharmacy technicians during the drug preparation stage before medications are dispensed to patients.
