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Military Pharmacists

Military Career

General Information

Description

Pharmacists dispense medication, consult with patients on proper usage and side effects, and carry out medication regimens with the utmost accuracy and integrity. They also advise physicians and other healthcare practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications. They need to be knowledgeable about the drugs they dispense and pay great attention to detail to fulfill the important role they play in patient care.

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Work Environment

Pharmacists usually work in hospitals and clinics on land and aboard ships. They may also work in field hospitals.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Officer
    • Managerial/professional
    • College degree required

Military Workforce

Pharmacists in the Military

754

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Salary

Average Salary

$74,514

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Doctoral degree 78%
  • Bachelor's degree 11%
  • Post-doctoral training 5%
  • First professional degree 3%
  • High school 1%
  • Some college 0%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Associate's degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • Post-secondary certificate 0%

Military training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for pharmacists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers working in healthcare, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, orientation to military structure, healthcare and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

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Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership

Knowledge

  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Chemistry
  • Psychology
  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Mathematics

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