Pharmacist

Overview

Applicants are invited to fill the following vacant positions at St. Jude Hospital: Pharmacist

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must have:

• Registered with the St. Lucia Pharmacy Council and licensed to practice in St. Lucia.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Studies or Pharmacology from a recognized tertiary institution.
• Previous experience in a hospital or clinical pharmacy setting is preferred but not required. 
• In-depth knowledge of pharmacology, therapeutics, and medication management.
• Proficiency with pharmacy information systems, electronic health records (EHR), and other relevant software applications.
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development, including participation in relevant courses, workshops, and conferences.

Job Summary: The Pharmacist is responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of medications through accurate dispensing, clinical evaluation, and patient education. Reporting to the Pharmacy Manager, the Pharmacist collaborates with healthcare providers to optimize medication therapy and enhance patient outcomes. This role requires a deep understanding of pharmacology, strong clinical skills, and a commitment to patient safety and quality care.

Key Responsibilities:

Medication Dispensing:

• Review and verify physician orders for accuracy, completeness, and appropriateness of medication therapy.
• Ensure that all prescriptions comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Accurately dispense medications, including compounding and preparing intravenous admixtures, as needed.
• Ensure that medications are labeled correctly and stored according to manufacturer guidelines and hospital protocols.
• Monitor for potential drug interactions, contraindications, allergies, and adverse drug reactions.
• Implement safety checks and procedures to minimize medication errors and ensure the safe administration of drugs.

Clinical Services:

• Collaborate with healthcare providers to develop and implement individualized medication therapy plans.
• Provide clinical consultations and recommendations on drug therapy, dosage adjustments, and alternative treatments.
• Educate patients and their families about medication regimens, including proper usage, potential side effects, and storage instructions.

Quality Assurance and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all local regulations governing pharmacy practice.
• Maintain accurate and complete records of medication dispensing, compounding, and inventory management.
• Document all clinical interventions, patient interactions, and medication errors accurately and promptly.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail: A high level of accuracy and attention to detail is essential in pharmacy practice to ensure the correct dispensing and administration of medications. Pharmacists must meticulously verify prescriptions, monitor for drug interactions, and adhere to safety protocols to prevent errors and ensure patient safety. 
• Communication Skills: Effective communication skills are crucial for interacting with patients, healthcare providers, and colleagues. Pharmacists must be able to explain complex medication regimens, provide clear instructions, and offer counseling on drug usage and potential side effects. Good communication ensures that all parties understand the medication plans and any necessary precautions.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong problem-solving skills are necessary for identifying and resolving medication-related issues, such as drug interactions, contraindications, and dosage adjustments. 
• Time Management: The ability to manage time efficiently and prioritize tasks is vital in a fast-paced hospital environment. Pharmacists must balance multiple responsibilities, including verifying prescriptions, consulting with healthcare providers, and educating patients, ensuring that all tasks are completed promptly and accurately.
• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment is essential for a cohesive and productive Pharmacy team. The Pharmacist works with various departments to ensure seamless patient care and efficient operations. Encouraging teamwork and cooperation enhances the overall performance of the pharmacy.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: In a dynamic healthcare setting, pharmacists must be adaptable to changing circumstances, such as new medication protocols, regulatory updates, and evolving patient needs. Flexibility and a willingness to learn are essential for staying current with advancements in pharmacy practice and delivering high-quality care.
• Interpersonal Skills: Building positive relationships with patients, healthcare providers, and colleagues is important for creating a collaborative and supportive work environment. 

Salary will be paid in accordance with the terms stipulated by the Government of St. Lucia in the Estimates of Expenditure commensurate with experience and qualifications for the post.

Applications accompanied by resume and certified certificates should be submitted no later than  November 30, 2024 and sent to:

Human Resources Department

St. Jude Hospital   

P.O. Box 331   

Vieux–Fort, St. Lucia

Or email job applications to humanresource@stjudehospitalslu.org