Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital healthcare, the role of pharmacy informatics specialists is more critical than ever.

As technology continues to revolutionize healthcare, the demand for professionals who can optimally integrate, manage, and protect our digital pharmaceutical systems is growing.

But what exactly does a pharmacy informatics specialist do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the complex world of pharmacy informatics,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable pharmacy informatics specialist job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Pharmacy Informatics Specialists blend their knowledge of pharmaceuticals and technology to manage medication use systems and deliver healthcare through the use of technology.

They serve as the bridge between pharmacy operations and information technology while adhering to regulatory and best practice guidelines.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing, implementing, and maintaining pharmacy information systems
• Analyzing the needs of the pharmacy department and creating solutions using informatics
• Maintaining patient medical data, including medication records and histories
• Ensuring the functionality, accuracy, and efficiency of pharmacy automation systems
• Utilizing technology to optimize medication safety, quality, and efficiency
• Training and supporting pharmacy staff in the use of pharmacy information systems and technology
• Conducting ongoing system testing to identify potential issues and areas of improvement
• Working closely with healthcare team members to ensure seamless integration of pharmacy systems with other health information systems
• Staying up-to-date with the latest technology trends, regulatory updates, and best practices in the field of pharmacy informatics

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Pharmacy Informatics Specialist to help us optimize the use of medication-related technologies.

The specialist will serve as a bridge between our pharmacy, IT departments, and other healthcare professionals.

The responsibilities include analyzing data, maintaining databases, implementing improvements in medication-related electronic systems, and ensuring that pharmacy services are in compliance with regulatory guidelines.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of pharmacology, informatics, and healthcare technology.

They must be able to apply their knowledge to improve patient care and outcomes.

 

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret complex data related to medication use processes
• Maintain the medication related databases and technologies
• Develop, implement, and maintain pharmacy information systems
• Manage and troubleshoot pharmacy technology systems and applications
• Ensure that pharmacy services are in compliance with regulatory requirements
• Assist in the selection, development, implementation, and optimization of medication-related technologies
• Train and educate staff about the use of pharmacy informatics systems
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to implement effective medication use processes

 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy or related field
• Current Pharmacist license
• Experience in clinical informatics or pharmacy informatics
• Excellent knowledge of pharmacy operations and procedures
• Strong understanding of healthcare IT systems, especially those related to pharmacy operations
• Knowledge of current pharmacy regulations and guidelines
• Excellent communication and teaching skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pharmacy Informatics Specialist
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. Some travel may be required for meetings or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Pharmacy or IT Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $140,000 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 Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Do?

Pharmacy Informatics Specialists are usually employed by hospitals or healthcare systems, where they leverage their combined expertise in pharmacy and information technology to improve and optimize the use of medication-related data and patient care.

They ensure the proper collection, storage, analysis, and utilization of patient and pharmaceutical data, to support decision-making within the pharmacy department and improve patient outcomes.

A Pharmacy Informatics Specialist may be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of clinical information systems, including electronic health records (EHRs) and computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems.

They work closely with healthcare IT professionals, clinicians, and pharmacists to tailor these systems to the unique needs of their organization.

They are also involved in training pharmacy staff and other healthcare professionals on the use of these clinical information systems, helping to troubleshoot any issues that may arise, and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in health informatics.

In addition, they might be involved in the evaluation of new technology or medication management systems, ensuring their organization is using the most effective and efficient tools available.

They may also participate in policy development and quality improvement initiatives related to medication use and safety.

A Pharmacy Informatics Specialist plays a crucial role in improving the quality of patient care by using technology and data to enhance medication safety and effectiveness.

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Qualifications and Skills

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

• Understanding of pharmaceutical practices and terminologies to ensure accurate data entry and interpretation in the informatics system.
• Proficiency in healthcare information technology systems and databases for managing, analyzing and interpreting complex data related to medication and patient care.
• Strong analytical skills to assess the needs of the pharmacy and implement technology solutions to improve efficiency and patient outcomes.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise between IT and pharmacy staff, ensuring that all systems are user-friendly and meet the needs of the pharmacy.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills to maintain accurate records and ensure that all data is correctly entered and processed in the system.
• Problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot any issues with the informatics system and implement appropriate solutions.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and standards to ensure the pharmacy’s technology use is compliant.
• Ability to work collaboratively with pharmacists, technicians, and other healthcare professionals to improve patient care through the effective use of technology.

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Pharmacy Informatics Specialists typically need a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and may have 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, often through a pharmacy residency or internship.

They may also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Clinical Pharmacist or Pharmacy Technician.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have comprehensive knowledge of healthcare informatics, with a focus on pharmacy processes, medication management systems, and clinical decision support systems.

They often obtain these skills in roles such as a Pharmacist or Pharmacist Informatics Specialist.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience in pharmacy informatics are usually proficient in managing pharmacy information systems and in integrating and applying data to improve patient care.

They may also have experience in leadership or project management, and are often eligible for advanced roles such as Pharmacy Informatics Manager or Director.

Additionally, all Pharmacy Informatics Specialists typically need to be licensed pharmacists.

Some employers may also require certification in Pharmacy Informatics from a recognized institution.

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Pharmacy Informatics Specialists typically require a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited pharmacy school.

Along with this, they should have completed a residency program with an emphasis on informatics or have significant working experience in pharmacy informatics.

A strong knowledge base in pharmacology, health information systems, patient data, and computer science is necessary.

Familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHR), Pharmacy Information Systems (PIS), and other related healthcare software is also required.

Some roles may require the specialist to be a licensed pharmacist, which involves passing two exams: the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE).

Additional certifications, such as becoming a Certified Professional in Health Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) or obtaining certification from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), can enhance career prospects and may be required by some employers.

Continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest advancements in healthcare informatics and technology are crucial for this role.

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Salary Expectations

A Pharmacy Informatics Specialist earns an average salary of $114,000 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, additional skills, the number of years spent in the profession, and the city or state of employment.

 

Pharmacy Informatics Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pharmacy Informatics Specialist need?

Pharmacy Informatics Specialists should have a firm understanding of pharmacy practice, health information systems, database management, and patient data analysis.

They need excellent technical skills to understand and troubleshoot information systems.

Additionally, they should possess strong communication and teamwork skills to work effectively with various healthcare professionals.

 

Do Pharmacy Informatics Specialists need a degree?

Yes, a Pharmacy Informatics Specialist typically requires a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree.

In addition, it’s beneficial if they have completed a residency or fellowship in pharmacy informatics, although this is not always required.

Some professionals in this field might also have a master’s degree in health informatics, data analytics, or a similar field.

 

What should you look for in a Pharmacy Informatics Specialist’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in pharmacy and health informatics.

Check for relevant experience in pharmacy practice and managing health information systems.

Proficiency in database management and data analysis tools can also be a major plus.

Any certifications related to health informatics can also be an added advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Pharmacy Informatics Specialist?

A good Pharmacy Informatics Specialist is detail-oriented and has a strong understanding of both pharmacy operations and information systems.

They should be able to work well in a team, have strong problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with healthcare professionals.

They must be proactive in learning new technologies and stay updated with the latest trends in healthcare informatics.

 

How challenging is it to hire Pharmacy Informatics Specialists?

Hiring Pharmacy Informatics Specialists can be a challenge due to the specific combination of skills required for this role.

It requires a deep understanding of both pharmacy operations and information technology.

Hence, finding professionals who excel in both areas might be difficult.

Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment can make the position more attractive to potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

That’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve delved into the often unseen world of a Pharmacy Informatics Specialist.

Intriguing, right?

It’s not just about dispensing prescriptions.

It’s about revolutionizing healthcare, one data point at a time.

With our comprehensive Pharmacy Informatics Specialist job description template and industry-specific examples, you’re equipped to venture further.

But why stop at the surface?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise, standout job listings or refining your resume to stand out from the crowd.

Remember:

Every data point contributes to the advancement of healthcare.

Let’s revolutionize healthcare. Together.