The question of what do you call someone who is a pharmacist? has a primary answer, but also a variety of historical, regional, and specialized titles. At its core, a pharmacist is a licensed healthcare professional responsible for dispensing and managing medications. However, the profession's name has evolved significantly over time and varies by location.
The Primary and Historical Titles
Pharmacist: The Modern Standard
The most recognized and standard term in North America is 'pharmacist'. This title is reserved for individuals who have completed a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and are licensed by the state to practice. They possess extensive knowledge about medications, their interactions, side effects, and safe use. Pharmacists today perform a wide range of duties beyond simply dispensing medicine, including patient counseling, managing immunizations, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to optimize a patient's drug therapy.
Apothecary and Druggist: Echoes from the Past
Historically, the terms 'apothecary' and 'druggist' were common names for a pharmacist.
- Apothecary: This is an older, more classical term derived from the Latin word for 'storehouse'. An apothecary in the Middle Ages was a medical practitioner who prepared and sold medicinal drugs and remedies. While this title is now largely obsolete in clinical practice, it is sometimes used to evoke a traditional or artisanal feel in certain products or businesses.
- Druggist: This term was once widely used, particularly in the United States, to refer to a person who sold drugs and medicines. It is now considered somewhat dated and has been largely replaced by the more professional title of pharmacist.
Chemist: The British and Commonwealth Title
In Commonwealth countries like the United Kingdom and Australia, a person who dispenses medicine is commonly called a 'chemist'. A 'dispensing chemist' operates from a 'chemist's shop' and fulfills medical prescriptions. While the title is different, their core function and level of expertise are comparable to that of a pharmacist in the United States.
Modern Professional Titles and Abbreviations
With advancements in pharmaceutical education, new titles and abbreviations are now common, reflecting a pharmacist's advanced degree and licensed status.
- PharmD: This abbreviation stands for 'Doctor of Pharmacy' and signifies the professional doctorate degree now required to become a licensed pharmacist in the United States. While the degree allows the use of the title 'Doctor', most pharmacists reserve it for professional settings to avoid confusion with medical doctors.
- RPh: Standing for 'Registered Pharmacist', this title indicates that a person is licensed by a state board of pharmacy to practice. It is often used in conjunction with the PharmD to denote both the educational and licensing credentials (e.g., Jane Doe, PharmD, RPh).
Expanding Specializations and Roles
The field of pharmacy is highly specialized, and pharmacists can focus their careers on different areas, which can also influence their title.
- Clinical Pharmacist: Works directly with a healthcare team in hospitals or clinics to manage patient medication plans.
- Compounding Pharmacist: Specializes in creating customized medications for patients who cannot use standard manufactured products.
- Nuclear Pharmacist: Prepares and dispenses radioactive drugs for diagnostic imaging and therapy.
- Oncology Pharmacist: Works with cancer patients to manage chemotherapy and other medications.
- Consultant Pharmacist: Provides medication management and review services, especially in long-term care facilities.
Pharmacist vs. Other Roles
It is important to differentiate the role of a pharmacist from other, related positions in the healthcare and pharmaceutical fields.
| Feature | Pharmacist | Pharmacy Technician | Pharmacologist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, typically 6-8 years post-high school. | High school diploma or training program, often under 2 years. | PhD, typically 4-6 years of research beyond undergraduate degree. |
| Licensing | Must pass national and state board exams to be licensed. | May require state registration or certification, which is different from a pharmacist's license. | No state-mandated license required for academic or research roles. |
| Primary Role | Dispenses medication, counsels patients, reviews appropriateness of therapy. | Assists pharmacists with administrative tasks, preparing and counting prescriptions. | Researches the effects of drugs on biological systems, often in a lab setting. |
| Patient Interaction | Direct counseling on drug use, side effects, and interactions. | Handles customer service, processes payments, and answers basic questions. | Minimal to no direct patient interaction. |
Conclusion
The most accurate and universally accepted answer to what do you call someone who is a pharmacist? is simply 'pharmacist' or 'Doctor of Pharmacy' (PharmD). However, regional titles like 'chemist' and historical terms like 'apothecary' still exist and reflect the profession's rich heritage. The modern pharmacist is a highly educated and licensed expert who plays a critical and expanding role in patient care, with numerous specializations allowing them to work in diverse healthcare settings.
For more information on the profession and career paths, resources like the American Pharmacists Association can be invaluable. [https://www.pharmacist.com/]
