Oncology Pharmacist - Career Profile |
Career OverviewThe oncology pharmacist has a very specialized role in the treatment and support of patients with cancer. The oncology pharmacist assists the physician and treatment team to develop the exact and individualized dosage of combinations of medications that will have the most effective results for the patient.
The oncology pharmacist is often responsible for suggesting possible combinations of drugs and drug therapies as well as monitoring for any possible concerns or adverse effects that these medications may have. The oncology pharmacist must be aware of all issues of the patient’s health, not just those directly related to the cancer or the malignant condition.
An above average understanding of the various cancer specific or malignant tumor specific medications and an ability to work within a team approach are the major factors for an oncology pharmacist. In addition the oncology pharmacist must be able to monitor, track and record progress made with various drug treatment therapies and combinations.
Effective use of current research information and a willingness to work with experimental drug therapies in a safe and regulated manner is also a daily part of the job of an oncology pharmacist.
Usually the oncology pharmacist will work with the doctors and treatment team and will spend time discussing options and explaining medications directly with the patient and their families. The oncology pharmacist must also explain to treatment teams how to correctly administer medications to patients if they are new or experimental.
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Career RequirementsAn oncology pharmacist must be a licensed pharmacist. A Pharm-D or a Bachelor of Science with a residency and advanced coursework is usually the educational requirements. In addition the oncology pharmacist must have successfully completed the NAPLEX exam that tests for drug knowledge as well as the MJPE which tests the pharmacists knowledge on legal issues related to drugs and drug therapies.
The Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties recognizes oncology pharmacy as one area of specialty. The Speciality Counsel on Oncology Pharmacy works to develop protocols and procedures for oncology pharmacists.
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Job OutlookThere will continue to be a steadily increasing demand for oncology pharmacists as the overall population ages and more patients are admitted to hospitals and healthcare facilities for treatment of cancers and malignant tumors. The demand for specialized pharmacists including oncology pharmacists is predicted to continue to increase for the next several years.
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Career TrackAn oncology pharmacist has many options should he or she choose to change careers. Some of the career options for an oncology pharmacist are:
- Clinical pharmacist
- Hospital pharmacist
- Radiopharmacist
- Long term care pharmacist
In addition an oncology pharmacist may choose to move into management within a hospital pharmacy or private pharmacy. There is also an increasing demand for faculty member with practical experience to teach at colleges and schools of pharmacy across the United States.
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CompensationAn oncology pharmacist usually makes approximately the same yearly rate as a hospital pharmacist. This averages between $84,000 and $90,000 per year depending on the size of the facility and the general location.
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