Exploring The Dynamic Career Of Travel Pharmacists

what does it take to be a travel pharmacist

Being a travel pharmacist involves working on a contract basis for pharmacies that need temporary staff. The job itself is similar to that of a regular pharmacist, but travel pharmacists have the opportunity to travel to new cities and countries for each new contract, which can be as frequent as every three months. Travel pharmacists can expect to enjoy exclusive contracts, higher rates of pay, and excellent benefits and perks, such as day-one benefits and the option to bring family and pets along. To become a travel pharmacist, a doctor of pharmacy degree and a license to practice in your state are required, along with excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to new environments.

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Qualifications and experience

To become a travel pharmacist, you will need a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a license to practice in your state. The requirements for obtaining a license vary by state, but typically involve a three-part exam, followed by continuing education every two years to retain your license. Most employers prefer candidates with at least a year of experience as a pharmacist. Fulfilling the duties of a travel pharmacist requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to new environments. Some employers may also require previous experience in a hospital setting or familiarity with specific tools.

The role of a travel pharmacist is to work on a contract basis for pharmacies that need temporary staff while they search for permanent employees. Travel pharmacists typically move to a new city for each contract, which can be as frequent as every three months. The job duties are similar to those of a regular pharmacist, including measuring medication doses, reviewing prescriptions, and supporting the pharmacy for the duration of the assignment. Travel pharmacists may also participate in clinical studies or focus on special areas of the industry, such as researching experimental drugs.

Travel pharmacist positions offer a unique opportunity to combine a passion for travel and experiencing new places with a pharmacy career. These roles often provide competitive salaries and the chance to work in a variety of exciting clinical settings. Some companies even allow you to bring your family and pets along on your travels.

If you are seeking a career that offers frequent change and the ability to meet new people, travel pharmacy could be an excellent choice. It is an ideal option for those who are experienced pharmacists looking for a new challenge or seeking to add some extra spice to their career.

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Salary and benefits

The salary of a travel pharmacist is typically very competitive, with some sources stating that it is among the highest-paid in the industry. The average salary for a travel pharmacist is $3,005 per week, which is 22% higher than the US average of $2,438 per week. However, wages can vary depending on location, facility, and qualifications, with some sources quoting salaries of $1,520-$3,000 per week, and others advertising salaries of up to $3,900 per week.

Travel pharmacists are often offered exclusive contracts, day-one benefits, and other perks such as medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as professional liability insurance. They may also receive a monthly stipend to use toward housing accommodations or a housing stipend if they prefer their own accommodations. Additionally, travel reimbursement to assignments is often included in the benefits package. Some companies also offer a 401k/retirement savings plan, allowing pharmacists to contribute up to $17,500 per year.

Travel pharmacists can also expect support from experienced clinical managers throughout their travel journey, as well as assistance from housing, payroll, and career specialists. Family and pets are usually welcome to join them on their travels.

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Job duties

The job duties of a travel pharmacist are similar to those of a regular pharmacist. They include:

  • Providing prescription and over-the-counter medications to individuals, along with advice and wellness treatments.
  • Reviewing an individual's medical history to ensure the medication will not interfere with their health or other medications.
  • Educating individuals about maintaining their well-being at home, such as how to take medication, check blood sugar, and measure cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • Collaborating with physicians and medical experts to determine the best prescriptions, treatments, and administration methods.
  • Managing the pharmacy, including employees and inventory, and negotiating payment through insurance providers.

Travel pharmacists work on a contract basis, filling temporary staffing needs for pharmacies while they search for permanent employees. This role usually involves moving to a new city for each contract, which can be as frequent as every three months. Travel pharmacists may also participate in clinical studies or focus on special elements of the industry, such as researching experimental drugs.

Communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments are essential for success in this role. Some employers may also require previous experience in a hospital setting or familiarity with specific tools.

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Travel requirements

As a travel pharmacist, you will be required to work on a contract basis for a pharmacy that needs help filling staffing needs while they look for permanent employees. This means you will be moving to a new city, or even a new country, for each new contract, which could be as often as every three months.

The primary qualifications required to become a travel pharmacist are a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a license to practice in your state. The requirements vary by state but usually involve a three-part exam, followed by continuing education every two years to retain your license. Most employers prefer at least a year of experience as a pharmacist.

Some employers have additional requirements, such as previous experience in a hospital environment or familiarity with certain tools. It is also important to note that travel pharmacist jobs may not always offer benefits such as medical insurance, so it is important to carefully review the terms of any contract before accepting a position.

Travel pharmacists can expect to earn a higher rate of pay than regular pharmacists, with some contracts offering $100/hour or more. This, along with the opportunity to travel to new places and experience different cultures, is a major benefit of the job. Travel pharmacists can also usually bring their families and pets along with them, which can be a great way to experience new places together.

Overall, the travel requirements of a travel pharmacist include frequent moves to new cities or countries, the need for a valid license to practice in each new location, and the ability to quickly adapt to new environments and situations.

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Personal qualities

To be a successful travel pharmacist, there are several personal qualities and traits that can help you excel in this field. Firstly, a passion for travel and experiencing new places is essential. Travel pharmacists must embrace the “travel bug” and enjoy exploring new destinations, as the job often involves moving to a new city or even a different country for each contract. This can be an exciting opportunity to combine your professional skills with your love for travel and experiencing new cultures.

Secondly, strong communication skills and a sociable personality will be beneficial. Travel pharmacists meet and work with new people regularly, including colleagues, patients, and medical professionals. Being able to build rapport, collaborate effectively, and provide clear instructions is crucial in this role. Strong communication skills also extend to listening and empathizing with patients, as you will be providing them with advice and wellness treatments.

Another important quality is attention to detail. Filling prescriptions accurately, reviewing medical histories, and ensuring medication dosages are correct require a meticulous approach and a keen eye for detail. A single mistake in medication management can have significant consequences for patients, so this skill is vital for any pharmacist, whether in a static or travelling role.

Adaptability and flexibility are also key attributes for travel pharmacists. Moving to new locations, working in different pharmacies, and navigating varied work environments require a quick adjustment. Being able to adapt to new systems, rules, and procedures while maintaining a high standard of work is essential. This includes being open to learning new things, whether it's navigating a new city, understanding cultural nuances, or grasping the intricacies of a different pharmacy management system.

Lastly, a sense of adventure and a willingness to embrace challenges are advantageous. The travel pharmacist role is not a static one; it involves frequent moves, new experiences, and the opportunity to participate in clinical studies or research experimental drugs. Embracing these challenges and viewing them as opportunities for growth and development will contribute to a rewarding career as a travel pharmacist.

These personal qualities, combined with the necessary qualifications and professional skills, will help set you up for success in this exciting and dynamic career.

Frequently asked questions

The primary qualifications are a doctor of pharmacy degree and a license to practice in your state. Most employers prefer at least a year of experience as a pharmacist.

The role is similar to that of a regular pharmacist. Travel pharmacists measure and dispense medication, review prescriptions, and support the pharmacy for the duration of their contract. They may also participate in clinical studies.

Travel pharmacists usually move to a new city for each new contract, which could be as often as every three months.

Travel pharmacists often receive higher pay than regular pharmacists and have the opportunity to travel to new places and meet new people. They can also bring their families and pets along with them.

Travel pharmacists need good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adjust quickly to new environments. They should also be flexible, enjoy new experiences, and be open to challenges.

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