Pharmacy Clerk Job Description
A Pharmacy Clerk provides clerical services and support in a pharmacy. They handle pharmacy orders and provide general customer service, complete administrative tasks and support the dispensing of pharmaceutical medications.
Pharmacy Clerks work in pharmacies, typically found in drugstores, grocery and big box stores and healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and urgent care centers. Many work part-time. The job is expected to grow at about 9 percent over the next 10 years according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, just slightly above average.
Pharmacy Clerk Duties and Responsibilities
In order to accomplish their main objective of handling pharmacy orders, Pharmacy Clerks perform many tasks. We compiled several job listings and identified these primary Pharmacy Clerk duties and responsibilities.
Perform Clerical Duties
The Pharmacy Clerk plays the role of receptionist, answering phones and greeting new customers in person. They are responsible for the customer service of a pharmacy, which includes receiving customer requests and resolving any customer problems and concerns, referring to supervisory staff when necessary.
Receive and Process Orders
Prescription orders are received by the Pharmacy Clerk, who must then accurately enter all necessary prescription, insurance and customer information in the appropriate computer systems. They are responsible for preparing accurate documentation of orders and sending them to the Pharmacist to be filled.
Conduct Pharmacy Transactions
Once an order is filled, the Pharmacy Clerk is responsible for packaging it and completing the sales transaction. This can include creating, printing and attaching appropriate prescription labels and packaging. The Pharmacy Clerk also acts as a cashier, processing sales and operating the pharmacy’s POS system.
Assist Pharmacy Staff
The Pharmacy Clerk may perform any number of additional duties in order to support the operation of the pharmacy and its personnel. This often includes taking inventory, noting stock levels and notifying the pharmacist of any inventory that is low or close to expiring. It can also include performing some pharmacy services under direct supervision of the pharmaceutical staff.
Pharmacy Clerk Skills
Detail-oriented with strong interpersonal skills, Pharmacy Clerks combine their clerical abilities with a dedication to customer service in order to support the everyday operations of their pharmacy. In order to succeed, they must be able to work under deadlines in fast-paced environments and tolerate stress. They must also possess both strong mathematical skills and excellent communication abilities, both verbal and written.
Core skills: Based on job listings we looked at, employers want Pharmacy Clerks with these core skills. If you want to work as a Pharmacy Clerk, focus on the following.
- Entering data quickly and accurately
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
- Providing customer service, both face to face and on the telephone
- Standing for long periods of time and lifting up to 50 pounds
- Possessing strong mathematical skills
- Operating cash registers and other related machines
Advanced skills: While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple job listings included them as preferred. Add these to your Pharmacy Clerk toolbox and broaden your career options.
- Pharmacy technician license
- Graduate from accredited pharmacy technician program
- Prior pharmacy experience
Pharmacy Clerk Resources
We searched the Web to find the best industry resources that can help you continue exploring a career as a Pharmacy Clerk. From thought leaders to important industry associations, this list is packed with opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
On the Web
Pharmacy Times – Practical information for pharmaceutical professionals
Med Ed 101 – Clinical pharmacy educational resource
The Honest Apothecary – A pharmacist’s blog all about careers in pharmacy
Industry Groups
PhRMA – The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America
GPhA – Generic Pharmaceutical Association
DIA Global – Global association of healthcare product development professionals
Pharmacy Clerk Books
Nursing 2016 Drug Handbook – A comprehensive guide to pharmaceutical drugs
PTCB Exam Study Guide – Study guide for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Examination
The Sanford Guide to Antimicrobial Therapy – A pocket guide to antimicrobial treatments
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