Core Responsibilities and DutiesThe primary functions of a pharmacist include:1. Medication Dispensing and SafetyDispense Prescription Medications: Accurately prepare and dispense prescription medications as ordered by physicians and other healthcare providers.Prescription Verification: Review and interpret prescriptions for accuracy, proper dosage, route, frequency, and duration.Drug Utilization Review (DUR): Screen prescriptions for potential issues such as:Drug interactions (with other medications, food, or supplements).Allergies.Dosage errors or appropriateness.Therapeutic duplication.Contraindications based on the patient's medical history.Compounding: Prepare special formulations or mixtures (compounding) for patients with unique medication needs.2. Patient Care and CounselingPatient Counseling: Advise and educate patients on the proper use of their prescribed and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including:Dosage and administration instructions.Potential side effects and how to manage them.Storage requirements.What to do if a dose is missed.Health Services: Administer immunizations (e.g., flu shots), and conduct health and wellness screenings (e.g., blood pressure or cholesterol checks).Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Provide a comprehensive review of a patient's entire medication regimen to identify and resolve medication-related problems.Triage: Advise patients on appropriate self-care and direct them to a physician or other healthcare provider when necessary.3. Collaboration and ConsultationConsult with Healthcare Providers: Work closely with physicians, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team to select the most appropriate drug therapy, adjust dosages, or suggest alternative medications.Provide Drug Information: Serve as a source of authoritative drug information for patients and other healthcare professionals.Manage Patient Care: In clinical settings, pharmacists often participate in patient care rounds, conduct medication reconciliation (comparing active medications across care settings), and develop comprehensive medication treatment plans.4. Operational and Administrative DutiesInventory Management: Oversee and manage the pharmacy's stock of medications, including ordering, receiving, storing, and ensuring controlled substances are handled securely.Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing the practice of pharmacy and the dispensing of controlled substances.Supervision: Supervise and direct the work of pharmacy technicians, interns, and other support staff.Record Keeping: Maintain accurate patient profiles, prescription records, and financial records.