UHC - Pharmacist

Role Overview

The Pharmacist at United Hospital Center (UHC) within the WVU Medicine network is a vital member of the healthcare team, responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. This role involves a wide range of activities, from dispensing and compounding medications to providing clinical consultation and participating in quality assurance initiatives. The Pharmacist works closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to optimize patient outcomes and promote medication safety. This role requires a strong understanding of pharmacology, therapeutics, and pharmacy law, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for a Pharmacist at UHC might include: * **Medication Dispensing:** Accurately and efficiently dispensing medications to patients, ensuring proper dosage, route, and frequency. * **Prescription Review:** Reviewing prescriptions for appropriateness, accuracy, and potential drug interactions, contacting prescribers when necessary to clarify orders. * **Compounding:** Preparing medications that are not commercially available, following strict sterile compounding techniques to ensure patient safety. * **Clinical Consultation:** Providing pharmaceutical consultation to physicians and nurses, answering questions about drug therapy, and recommending alternative treatments. * **Inventory Management:** Managing drug inventory, ensuring proper storage and handling of medications, and ordering supplies as needed. * **Quality Assurance:** Participating in quality assurance programs, identifying and resolving medication-related issues, and implementing strategies to improve patient safety. * **Drug Information:** Researching and providing drug information to healthcare professionals, staying current with new medications and therapeutic guidelines. * **Patient Counseling:** Counseling patients on the proper use of their medications, including potential side effects and drug interactions. * **Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting:** Monitoring for and reporting adverse drug reactions, working to prevent future occurrences. * **Attending Meetings:** Participating in pharmacy-related meetings, contributing to the development of pharmacy policies and procedures.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown is a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, and a variety of recreational opportunities. The city is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including rolling hills, forests, and rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Morgantown also boasts a low cost of living, excellent schools, and a friendly, welcoming community. For WVU Medicine employees, Morgantown provides convenient access to a wide range of resources and support services. The WVU Medicine campus is located in the heart of Morgantown, offering easy access to hospitals, clinics, and research facilities. The city also offers a variety of housing options, from affordable apartments to spacious single-family homes.

Career Path

The Pharmacist role at WVU Medicine offers a variety of career advancement opportunities. Experienced Pharmacists may choose to specialize in a particular area of pharmacy, such as oncology, cardiology, or pediatrics. They may also pursue leadership roles, such as Pharmacy Manager or Clinical Pharmacy Specialist. WVU Medicine also supports continuing education and professional development, encouraging Pharmacists to stay current with the latest advances in pharmacy practice. Possible career paths for a Pharmacist at WVU Medicine include: * **Clinical Pharmacist:** Focuses on providing direct patient care, working closely with physicians and nurses to optimize drug therapy. * **Specialty Pharmacist:** Specializes in a particular area of pharmacy, such as oncology or cardiology, providing expert knowledge and guidance. * **Pharmacy Manager:** Oversees the operations of a pharmacy, managing staff, inventory, and budget. * **Director of Pharmacy:** Provides strategic leadership and direction for the pharmacy department, ensuring high-quality pharmaceutical services. * **Clinical Pharmacy Specialist:** An advanced-level pharmacist who specializes in a specific area of practice. They have extensive experience and expertise in medication therapy management and often conduct research, educate other healthcare professionals, and develop clinical guidelines. * **Ambulatory Care Pharmacist:** Manages and monitors patients' medication regimens in an outpatient setting, working closely with primary care providers and specialists. * **Informatics Pharmacist:** Integrates pharmacy practice with technology and data analysis, working to improve medication safety and efficiency through the use of electronic health records and other systems.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Pharmacist at WVU Medicine in Morgantown, West Virginia is $110,000 to $150,000 per year. The actual salary will depend on experience, education, and other factors. WVU Medicine also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and more. Specific benefits include: * Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Prescription drug coverage * Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays) * Retirement plan with employer matching * Life insurance * Disability insurance (short-term and long-term) * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA) * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Tuition reimbursement * Professional development opportunities * Continuing education allowance * Employee discounts on WVU Medicine services

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. The organization fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and innovation. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the improvement of patient care. WVU Medicine also values diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees. WVU Medicine's core values include: * **Patient-Centered:** Putting the needs of patients first. * **Excellence:** Striving for the highest standards of quality and safety. * **Teamwork:** Working together to achieve common goals. * **Innovation:** Embracing new ideas and technologies to improve patient care. * **Integrity:** Conducting ourselves with honesty and ethical behavior. * **Respect:** Treating everyone with dignity and respect.

How to Apply

To apply for the Pharmacist position at UHC within WVU Medicine, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page. You will be directed to the WVU Medicine career website, where you can submit your application and resume. Please be sure to complete all required fields and provide accurate information. The following information is also needed: * A current resume or CV outlining your education, experience, and qualifications. * A cover letter expressing your interest in the position and highlighting your relevant skills and experience. * Copies of your valid pharmacist license and any relevant certifications. * Contact information for three professional references.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**1. What are the required qualifications for the Pharmacist position?** The required qualifications include a valid pharmacist license in West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, or Pennsylvania, and a graduate of an accredited School of Pharmacy. Experience in hospital pharmacy is preferred. **2. What are the key responsibilities of a Pharmacist at UHC?** The key responsibilities include dispensing medications, reviewing prescriptions, compounding medications, providing clinical consultation, and participating in quality assurance programs. **3. What is the salary range for a Pharmacist at WVU Medicine in Morgantown, WV?** The estimated salary range is $110,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. **4. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer to its employees?** WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and more. **5. What is the culture like at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and innovation, with a focus on providing high-quality, patient-centered care. **6. What are the career advancement opportunities for Pharmacists at WVU Medicine?** Career advancement opportunities include specialization in a particular area of pharmacy, leadership roles, and continuing education programs. **7. How do I apply for the Pharmacist position?** To apply, click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page and submit your application and resume on the WVU Medicine career website. **8. Is relocation assistance available for this position?** Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. **9. Is a sign-on bonus offered for this position?** A sign-on bonus may be offered for qualified candidates. **10. What is the work-life balance like for Pharmacists at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine is committed to providing a supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance. Flexible scheduling options may be available.