Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of healthcare, the role of hospital pharmacy clerks is indispensable.

As the field of medicine continues to advance, there is an increasing demand for efficient individuals who can manage, organize, and maintain a hospital’s pharmaceutical needs.

But what exactly is expected from a hospital pharmacy clerk?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager formulating the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes operations of a hospital pharmacy,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable hospital pharmacy clerk job description template, created for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Duties and Responsibilities

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks perform an important role in the operation of hospital pharmacies, often acting as a key point of contact between patients, healthcare providers, and pharmacists.

They are responsible for several duties, including administrative tasks and customer service.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the preparation and distribution of medications
• Managing inventory, restocking, and ordering pharmacy supplies as necessary
• Maintaining and updating patient records and pharmacy files
• Processing prescriptions under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist
• Answering phone calls and directing queries to the appropriate personnel
• Handling cash transactions and processing insurance claims
• Complying with all hospital and departmental safety protocols
• Assisting with the organization and cleanliness of the pharmacy
• Communicating with medical staff regarding patient medication information

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Hospital Pharmacy Clerk to assist in our hospital’s pharmacy.

The role includes managing inventory, assisting pharmacists, interacting with patients, and performing administrative tasks.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of medication and medical terminology, exceptional organizational skills, and excellent customer service.

The goal is to ensure smooth and effective support to pharmacy operations, thereby contributing to patient satisfaction and well-being.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist pharmacists with administrative tasks including filling prescriptions, inventory control, and patient billing
• Update patient records and information in the pharmacy system
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints professionally and courteously
• Facilitate communication between the pharmacy and medical staff
• Maintain a clean and organized pharmacy environment
• Ensure compliance with pharmacy and hospital policies, as well as health and safety regulations
• Perform clerical tasks such as answering phones, handling mail, and filing prescriptions

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a pharmacy clerk or similar role in a healthcare setting
• Knowledge of medical and pharmaceutical terminology
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure
• Familiarity with pharmacy law and medical ethics
• High school diploma or equivalent; certification or associate degree in pharmacy technology is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health, Dental and Vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discount
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hospital Pharmacy Clerk
• Work Environment: Hospital pharmacy setting. Shifts may include evenings and weekends.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Pharmacist or Pharmacy Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $31,400 minimum to $45,000 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 a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Do?

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks are vital members of the healthcare team in hospitals and other medical facilities.

They assist the pharmacists in managing the medication supply, which includes receiving, storing, and inventorying pharmaceuticals.

They work closely with pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to prepare and give out prescription medications.

This involves taking prescription orders, labeling containers, and maintaining patient profiles.

In addition, they are usually responsible for administrative tasks such as answering phones, operating cash registers, and handling payment transactions.

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks also often interact with patients, providing them with assistance, answering their queries and sometimes even explaining the proper use of medication under the pharmacist’s supervision.

They are also responsible for ensuring that the pharmacy is clean, organized, and well-stocked.

This involves routinely checking and replenishing inventory as needed.

In some cases, they may also deliver medications to patients’ rooms in the hospital or assist with the coordination of medication delivery to patients’ homes.

In all of their duties, they must adhere to strict patient confidentiality regulations and medication control policies.

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Hospital Pharmacy Clerk should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong customer service skills to handle patient queries and provide adequate information about medications and prescriptions.
• Detail-oriented nature to accurately process prescriptions and handle inventory management.
• Excellent communication skills to interact with healthcare professionals, patients, and other staff members.
• Proficiency in medical software for maintaining patient records, processing insurance claims, and tracking inventory.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive patient information in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Good mathematical skills for calculating dosages, pricing, and billings accurately.
• Basic knowledge of pharmacology to understand drug names, their generic equivalents, and drug interactions.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve any issues that arise in the pharmacy operations.

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Experience Requirements

An entry-level Hospital Pharmacy Clerk usually requires no direct experience but should have basic knowledge of medical and pharmaceutical terminology obtained through relevant coursework or studies.

However, previous experience in a pharmacy setting, such as an internship or part-time role, or even in a customer service position, can be an advantage as it provides practical understanding of the job’s tasks and responsibilities.

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks with 1 to 2 years of experience may have gained significant on-the-job expertise in areas like prescription processing, inventory control, insurance billing, or patient service.

Those with over 3 years of experience may have developed their skills to a degree where they are capable of taking on additional responsibilities such as training new clerks or assisting with complex prescription orders.

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks with over 5 years of experience could potentially move into supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing the operations of the pharmacy department, maintaining regulatory compliance, and ensuring effective customer service.

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Education and Training Requirements

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks typically require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

In addition, they need to complete a certification program in pharmacy technology, which can be offered by many vocational schools and community colleges.

These programs provide knowledge about drug classifications, pharmacy law, dosage calculations, and pharmacy administration.

Some states may also require Pharmacy Clerks to be certified, which involves passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

Knowledge of medical terminology and the ability to perform basic mathematics are crucial for this role.

Pharmacy Clerks should also possess strong customer service skills, as they often interact with patients and healthcare professionals.

On-the-job training is typically provided to help new hires familiarize themselves with the specific procedures and protocols of the hospital pharmacy.

Continuing education throughout their career is also important to stay updated on new medications and healthcare practices.

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Salary Expectations

A Hospital Pharmacy Clerk earns an average salary of $34,375 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary based on factors such as years of experience, qualifications, location, and the hospital where they are employed.

 

Hospital Pharmacy Clerk Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk need?

Hospital Pharmacy Clerks should have strong organizational and multitasking skills as they are often required to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

They should also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, healthcare professionals, and coworkers.

Attention to detail is also essential to accurately fill prescriptions and manage inventory.

 

Do Hospital Pharmacy Clerks require any specific qualifications?

Typically, Hospital Pharmacy Clerks require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Some hospitals may prefer candidates who have completed a pharmacy technician or related program.

While not always required, certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or National Healthcareer Association may be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk resume?

When reviewing a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk’s resume, look for previous experience in a pharmacy or healthcare setting, as this suggests familiarity with medical terminology and pharmacy operations.

Proficiency in pharmacy management software is a plus.

Pay attention to any certifications or additional training they may have in the field.

 

What qualities make a good Hospital Pharmacy Clerk?

A good Hospital Pharmacy Clerk is attentive, responsible, and has strong customer service skills.

They should have a good understanding of pharmacy operations and be able to handle stress and pressure effectively.

As they often interact with patients, they should be compassionate and empathetic.

 

What are the daily duties of a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk?

On a typical day, a Hospital Pharmacy Clerk may process prescriptions, manage inventory, and liaise with healthcare professionals to clarify prescription details.

They may also handle administrative tasks such as answering phone calls, maintaining patient records, and processing payments.

Their role involves ensuring the smooth operation of the pharmacy and providing assistance to pharmacists as needed.

 

Is it difficult to hire Hospital Pharmacy Clerks?

Recruiting Hospital Pharmacy Clerks can be challenging, as it requires finding candidates who possess a unique combination of healthcare knowledge, strong administrative skills, and excellent interpersonal abilities.

However, providing competitive salaries, good working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of what it means to be a hospital pharmacy clerk.

You know what?

It’s not just about dispensing medicines.

It’s about ensuring the right medication reaches the right patient, one prescription at a time.

With our definitive hospital pharmacy clerk job description template and real-life examples, you’re perfectly poised to make a career move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job postings or polishing your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every prescription filled is a part of a larger healing process.

Let’s contribute to that process. Together.

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