Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the role of ambulatory care pharmacists is more crucial than ever.

As healthcare continues to innovate and evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently provide medication management and patient care in ambulatory settings is escalating.

But what is really expected from an ambulatory care pharmacist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of ambulatory care pharmacy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable ambulatory care pharmacist job description template, prepared for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Duties and Responsibilities

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who focus on the medication needs of patients receiving care in an outpatient setting.

They work closely with patients and healthcare providers to ensure optimal medication therapy outcomes.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating patient’s medication needs and developing pharmaceutical care plans
• Conducting medication therapy management and comprehensive medication reviews
• Providing patient counseling on proper medication use and potential side effects
• Collaborating with healthcare providers to optimize patient’s medication regimen
• Monitoring patient’s response to medication therapy and making necessary adjustments
• Administering immunizations and other medications as required
• Assessing patient’s medication-related needs and recommend over-the-counter products
• Participating in the management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia
• Providing medication education to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers
• Maintaining accurate patient records and document interventions

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Ambulatory Care Pharmacist to join our healthcare team.

You will be responsible for providing clinical pharmacy services and implementing pharmacy care plans for patients in outpatient settings.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of pharmacotherapy and direct patient care and be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

The Ambulatory Care Pharmacist will also play a vital role in educating patients about medication usage, potential side effects, and overall healthcare management.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive medication management services including assessment, pharmacotherapy evaluation, and intervention and education.
• Develop, implement, and manage pharmaceutical care plans for ambulatory patients.
• Participate in patient counseling, providing medication-related health education to enhance patient understanding.
• Monitor patient responses and therapeutic outcomes on an ongoing basis.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
• Conduct medication reconciliation and identify and resolve medication-related problems.
• Stay updated with latest therapeutic advancements, drug approval processes, and regulations.
• Maintain accurate patient medication records.

 

Qualifications

• PharmD degree from an accredited institution.
• Current licensure as a Pharmacist in the state of practice.
• Completion of a PGY1 pharmacy residency program, with a PGY2 pharmacy residency in ambulatory care preferred.
• Proven clinical experience in a hospital or ambulatory setting.
• Strong knowledge of pharmacotherapy and disease management.
• Excellent patient counseling skills and the ability to communicate complex medical information to patients and healthcare providers.
• Proficiency with electronic medical record systems.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ambulatory Care Pharmacist
• Work Environment: Clinical outpatient setting. Some weekend shifts may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Pharmacy Services or Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $101,590 minimum to $137,100 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Do?

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists are specialized healthcare professionals who provide medication-related care in outpatient settings.

They work closely with patients and their healthcare teams to manage chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and others.

They design, implement, monitor, and adjust personalized medication plans to optimize patient health outcomes.

These pharmacists provide medication therapy management services which include comprehensive medication reviews, prevention strategies, and patient education to ensure the safe and effective use of medications.

They are also responsible for managing medication-related problems, such as drug interactions, adverse drug reactions, and issues related to medication cost and adherence.

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists may also provide preventive care services such as immunizations and health screenings.

Their work requires close collaboration with other healthcare providers, and they often serve as a valuable resource for their peers, providing drug information and education.

The ultimate goal of the Ambulatory Care Pharmacist is to improve the quality of patient care and enhance patient health outcomes through optimal medication management.

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Qualifications and Skills

An Ambulatory Care Pharmacist should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of pharmaceuticals, their indications, interactions, dosages and side effects to give appropriate medication recommendations.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills to assess patient’s medication management and make appropriate adjustments.
• Effective communication skills to provide clear instructions to patients about medication use, potential side effects and any special precautions.
• Interpersonal skills to maintain positive relationships with patients, medical professionals, and healthcare organizations.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve medication-related problems that can negatively affect patient’s health.
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments and multi-task effectively while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
• Understanding of health informatics and ability to use Electronic Health Records (EHR) and other pharmacy-related software.
• Customer service skills to ensure patients are satisfied with their medication management and overall care.

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Experience Requirements

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists generally start their career path with a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, which provides the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experience required for this job role.

Many aspiring Ambulatory Care Pharmacists often gain initial practical experience via residencies or internships in community pharmacies, hospitals, or healthcare facilities.

This hands-on training typically lasts for 1 to 2 years, preparing them for the professional challenges they might face.

After obtaining their license to practice pharmacy, professionals may start their careers in roles such as staff pharmacist or clinical pharmacist where they gain experience in medication therapy management, patient counseling, and collaborative healthcare.

For those aspiring to advanced roles or specialized areas in ambulatory care, completion of a postgraduate residency in Ambulatory Care Pharmacy or equivalent work experience of 3 to 5 years is often required.

Moreover, Ambulatory Care Pharmacists with more than 5 years of experience may have gathered enough skills and knowledge to take on leadership roles, supervise junior pharmacists, and manage various aspects of a healthcare facility’s pharmaceutical services.

They may also consider certification through the Board of Pharmacy Specialties to further highlight their expertise in the field.

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Education and Training Requirements

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists typically require a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy program.

To gain admission into these programs, students must have completed a certain amount of undergraduate study, typically two to three years, and passed the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT).

Most Pharm.D. programs last four years and offer coursework in areas such as biomedical sciences, clinical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, and pharmacotherapy.

The program also requires a series of supervised clinical experiences in different aspects of pharmacy.

After earning a Pharm.D. degree, prospective Ambulatory Care Pharmacists must also pass two exams to obtain a license: the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX), which tests pharmacy knowledge, and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE), which tests pharmacy law.

Many Ambulatory Care Pharmacists also complete a one to two-year residency program, particularly those who wish to work in a clinical setting.

These programs provide on-the-job training and often lead to job opportunities.

Additional certifications may be required for some Ambulatory Care Pharmacist roles.

For example, the Board of Pharmacy Specialties offers certification in areas such as ambulatory care and pharmacotherapy.

Continuing education throughout their career is also necessary to keep up with advances in pharmacological science and changes in pharmacy law.

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Salary Expectations

An Ambulatory Care Pharmacist earns an average salary of $120,000 (USD) per year.

The salary range can significantly differ depending on the pharmacist’s years of experience, specialized skills, the location of the job, and the specific organization they work for.

 

Ambulatory Care Pharmacist Job Description FAQs

What is the role of an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist?

An Ambulatory Care Pharmacist plays an essential role in providing medication management services to patients who do not necessarily require hospital admission.

This can include monitoring patient medications, conducting clinical assessments, educating patients about medication use, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.

 

What skills does an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist need?

Ambulatory Care Pharmacists should have strong communication and patient counseling skills to educate patients about their medications.

They should have a detailed understanding of medications and their effects, and the ability to assess patient conditions and respond to changes.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure are also important.

 

Do Ambulatory Care Pharmacists need a degree?

Yes, to become an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist, a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree is required.

In addition, they need to be licensed to practice in their state.

Some may also choose to complete a residency in ambulatory care or a related area to gain more specialized experience.

 

What should you look for in an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist resume?

When reviewing an Ambulatory Care Pharmacist’s resume, ensure that they have a Pharm.D. degree from an accredited institution and a state license to practice.

Look for any additional certifications or training, such as a residency or board certification in ambulatory care.

Relevant experience in outpatient care, patient counseling, or medication management should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Ambulatory Care Pharmacist?

A good Ambulatory Care Pharmacist is patient-focused, with a strong commitment to providing high-quality care.

They should be excellent communicators, able to educate patients about their medications in a clear and understandable way.

They should also be organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple patients and tasks simultaneously.

Flexibility and adaptability are also key, as they may need to respond to changes in patient conditions or treatment plans quickly.

 

Is it difficult to hire Ambulatory Care Pharmacists?

Like any specialized healthcare role, hiring Ambulatory Care Pharmacists can be challenging due to the specific education and licensing requirements.

However, offering competitive salaries, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a positive work environment can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have demystified the role of an ambulatory care pharmacist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about dispensing medication.

It’s about playing a crucial role in patient care, one prescription at a time.

With our reliable ambulatory care pharmacist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next stepping stone to crafting precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every prescription filled is a step towards better patient health.

Let’s improve healthcare. Together.

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