How to Get Certified in Pharmacy Consulting in Mississippi

Becoming a consulting pharmacist can expand your pharmacy career options.

Becoming a consulting pharmacist can be a good transition for someone who is already a pharmacist and would like to expand his or her career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career as a consulting pharmacist is continuing to grow in demand, and the median salary is $106,410. However, not just anyone can become a consulting pharmacist. Consulting pharmacists have the unique job of providing professional advice on which medications should be prescribed. First, you must meet all the requirements of a basic pharmacist; then, you need special licensing.

Instructions

1. Graduate from an accredited college with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD).

2. Intern under a licensed pharmacist for two years. You will need this experience to obtain needed licenses in Mississippi.

3. Pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). Once you have completed this, you will be a licensed pharmacist. Then you can move on to become a consulting pharmacist.

4. Contact The Mississippi Board of Pharmacy to locate the certifications you need to become a consulting pharmacist. You can find the board's contact information on its web page. (See References.)

5. Find the licenses you need in the "Application and Fees" section. Fill out the application forms, and return them to the board.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit the Commission for Certification in Geriatric Pharmacy web page. (See References). Because consulting pharmacists often work with seniors and nursing homes, this license is recommended. This will allow you to work with and advise prescriptions for seniors.

References

• All Allied Health Schools; Become a Pharmacist
• Commission for Certification in Geriatric Pharmacy; Why Should a Pharmacist Be Board Certified in Geriatrics?
• Mississippi Board of Pharmacy
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; Pharmacists