Band 7/8a Pharmacist
Job Overview
A Band 7/8a Pharmacist in the NHS is a senior clinical pharmacist responsible for delivering expert pharmaceutical care, managing medication safety, and supporting patient treatment across various healthcare settings. While Band 7 pharmacists focus on advanced clinical practice, Band 8a roles involve greater leadership, service development, and strategic responsibilities.
Responsibilities
- Provide specialist pharmaceutical advice to healthcare teams and patients.
- Conduct medication reviews, optimize prescriptions, and ensure safe drug use.
- Support clinical teams in managing complex patient cases.
- Educate and train junior pharmacists, technicians, and healthcare staff.
- Participate in audits, research, and service improvements.
- Work in hospital wards, outpatient clinics, or primary care settings.
- Lead pharmacy services within a specific department or specialty.
- Develop and implement medicines management policies and protocols.
- Oversee training programs and mentor junior pharmacists.
- Manage pharmacy staff and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams.
- Contribute to strategic planning and quality improvement initiatives.
Requirements
- Qualification: Master’s degree (MPharm) and General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration.
- Experience: Several years of clinical experience, with progression from Band 6 to Band 7.
- Skills: Strong clinical knowledge, leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
- For Band 8a: Additional management, prescribing, or postgraduate qualifications (e.g., independent prescribing, clinical pharmacy diploma) are often required.
