Pharmacist

Pharmacists use their expert knowledge of drugs to market, develop, research, and supply medicine to patients.

Pharmacist Job Description

Conduct clinical trials and tests to appraise and examine the characteristics and purity of drugs.
Provide drugs based on a doctor's prescription and ensure that those drugs are safe to take.
Inform patients on possible drug side effects and medicine a patient may use for self-medication.
Maintain the pharmacy's supply of drugs and ensure that every drug (from the smallest pills to the bottles) is accounted for.
Oversee and synchronise the work of pharmacy technicians, pharmacy assistants, and pharmacists in training.

Note

Pharmacists can take up specialisations in certain areas (e.g. medicine for cancer treatment) during their postgraduate studies, after they have obtained their bachelor's degree.

A day in the life

Pharmacist

Pharmacists aren't just medicine packers. Find out how they make a difference in patients' lives on the daily.

What you should know about Pharmacist jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

Pharmaceutical Sciences focus on the research and development side while as Pharmacists, you will compound and dispense medicine.

Key Advice

Always prioritise patient safety by double-checking prescriptions and being vigilant about potential drug interactions.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
You will need a Singapore degree in Pharmacy with minimally 12 months of experience in a practical Pharmacy. Or a Pharmacy qualification from overseas institutions recognised by the Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC).

You may also take up the National University Healthcare System (NUHS) Allied Health job shadowing programme.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Pharmacist career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Medical Dispensing

Expertise in accurately dispensing prescription medications, ensuring correct dosage and adherence to safety.

Practical Mathematics Skills

Proficiency in Mathematics is essential for calculating precise drug quantities and dosages.

Proficiency in Handling Fine Equipment

Skilled in using measuring devices to accurately prepare and dispense medications.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail

Meticulous attention to detail, vital for ensuring accuracy in medication dispensing and avoiding errors.

Communication

Strong communication skills to effectively counsel patients about medication usage.

Problem-Solving

Ability to solve problems, such as addressing prescription discrepancies and providing solutions.

“It takes time and effort to be a Pharmacist but it's a job that makes a difference to others' lives. ”

Yi San, Pharmacist

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Where do Pharmacists work in Singapore?

Pharmacists don't just work at community pharmacies. They also work at Pharmaceutical companies, where they oversee the production of legal medical drugs and/or try to market new drugs to patients, and Research laboratories, where they try to make better drugs for diseases with or without existing treatments.
What is the work culture like for Pharmacists?

Pharmacists who decide to be Researchers spend most of their time in the lab. Those who become Community Pharmacists get to interact with many people throughout their shift.
How does technology impact the role of Pharmacists?

Technologies such as Computerised Provider Order Entry (CPOE) and electronic prescribing have streamlined the medication order process, reducing the chances of errors and enhancing the overall workflow efficiency for Pharmacists.
What is a common challenge Pharmacists face in their work?

A challenge would be staying updated with new medications and treatments. Pharmacists need to continuously update their knowledge to provide accurate information and recommendations to patients.
How can Pharmacists keep up with the latest developments and advancements in the field?

They can do so through continuing education programmes, seminars, webinars, and conferences that can provide opportunities to learn about new research, technologies, drug therapies, and regulatory updates.