Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions in life, and if you’re passionate about health care, science, and helping others, becoming a pharmacist may be the perfect path for you. Pharmacists and pharmacy techs play a pivotal role in health care, working at the intersection of patient care, medication management, and public health.

I chose the pharmacy tech program because I know that it has a great career path, and I know that I’ll always be able to support myself and my family.

Makenna – Pharmacy Technician Student at Allegany College of Maryland

Whether you’re in high school or college and exploring potential career paths, pharmacy careers offer a range of opportunities that provide stability, personal satisfaction, and long-term growth.

According to the Maryland Hospital Association’s 2022 State Workforce Report, one of the top high-vacancy occupations in Maryland hospitals and health systems is a pharmacy technician, which means this role is in high demand.

The Role of a Pharmacist: What Does a Pharmacist Do?

At its core, pharmacy is all about improving patient outcomes through the safe and effective use of medications. Pharmacists are responsible for dispensing medications, but their role goes much deeper than that. They work directly with patients to ensure they understand how to take their medications, educate them about potential side effects, and collaborate with doctors and other health care providers to optimize treatment plans. In many cases, pharmacists are the most accessible health care professionals for patients, making them a crucial part of the care team.

The profession also includes specialties such as clinical pharmacy, where pharmacists work in hospitals to provide direct patient care, and research pharmacy, which involves developing new medications and therapies. This wide array of settings gives pharmacists the flexibility to choose a work environment that best suits their interests and skills.

The Role of a Pharmacy Tech: What Does a Pharm Tech Do?

Pharmacy technicians (pharm techs) work in all different types of health care settings including urgent care centers, retail stores, skilled nursing facilities, and many other locations.

In hospitals, pharm techs may assist the pharmacist and other staff with filling prescriptions and getting them directly to patients. They may also help with organizing the pharmacy, sterilizing equipment, refilling drug-dispensing equipment, and supporting the delivery of IV medications.

Career Stability

One of the most attractive aspects of becoming a pharmacist is the stability it offers. Health care is a field that continues to grow, and the demand for pharmacists remains high. As populations age and chronic conditions become more prevalent, the need for skilled pharmacists who can manage complex medication regimens is increasing.

Additionally, the field of pharmacy is evolving alongside advancements in health care technology.

For example, pharmacists are increasingly involved in tele-pharmacy and digital health initiatives that deliver services remotely and improve access to care for patients in underserved areas. This innovation ensures that pharmacy will continue to be a relevant and critical profession for years to come.

Diverse Opportunities in Pharmacy

One of the most exciting aspects of a career in pharmacy is the diversity of roles available. While most people associate pharmacists with community pharmacies or retail settings, there are many other career options such as:

• Clinical Pharmacists: According to ACCP, clinical pharmacists, work directly with physicians/health professionals and patients to ensure prescribed medications lead to the best possible health outcomes.
• Pharmacy Technicians: Montgomery College describes a pharmacy technician as someone who processes prescription requests, maintains patient profiles, manages inventory, prepares and labels medications, and ensures proper storage and cleanliness of medications and work areas.
• Pharmacy Aides: According to Montgomery College, a pharmacy aide assists customers, processes sales, organizes prescriptions, manages inventory, restocks supplies, and maintains clean work areas, all while supporting the pharmacist with routine tasks.

There’s always something new, there’s always something to learn. And as humans, we need growth in all areas of our lives, and having the opportunity to work with MedStar over the last 10 years has been really impactful for my life and for my career.

Racheal – Inpatient Pharmacy Technician at MedStar Health

Conclusion

Choosing to become a pharmacist is more than just selecting a career—it’s committing to a path that offers personal fulfillment, professional growth, and the chance to make a lasting impact on others. With the increasing demand for health care services, pharmacists will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of patients.

If you’re passionate about health care, love science, and want a career that blends intellectual challenge with compassion for others, pharmacy might just be the ideal career choice for you. Whether you’re interested in patient care, research, or public health, a career in pharmacy offers diverse opportunities and the chance to make a difference every day.