The role of an Organ Transplant Pharmacist

Organ Transplant Pharmacist

The art of transplanting organs has come a long way. From animal experimentation to trial and error procedures, organ transplantation has a rich and unique history. The twentieth century marked a time of progress, and after a few successful transplants, surgeons across the globe began to envision the many possibilities the future held.

But the field of organ transplantation wouldn’t be where it is today without advances in medication. Around 1960, immunologist Peter Medawar discovered an acquired immune tolerance in recipients, and soon anti-rejection drugs were created to enable recipients to receive organs from non-identical donors. Today, the medication involved in transplants is so essential to the procedure that clinics often staff an organ transplant pharmacist.

What is an Organ Transplant Pharmacist?

The organ transplant pharmacist devotes his or her time primarily to the care of organ recipients. They evaluate the individual and the medication, develop and implement drug therapy protocols, and ensure a safe and effective drug treatment. They also provide the patient or caregiver with education and counseling to ensure proper understanding of the medication upon discharge. Organ transplant pharmacists work to educate the rest of the team and those in training about drug procedures, and they assist with any necessary pharmaceutical research.

Education and Training

Residencies are changing the way in which pharmacists enter a field of study. Historically, organ transplant pharmacists would gain experience through on-site training after they joined a clinic. Today, you can choose to complete your residency in any given field of pharmacy, such as in the transplant department. The current postgraduate recommendations include 1-year general residency followed by a 1-year organ transplant residency.

The American Society of Transplantation (link: https://www.myast.org/) also advocates for further concentration in ongoing education and research. It is recommended to obtain continuing education credits in transplant courses annually.

What’s in Store

Organ transplant pharmacists work with the team to optimize patient outcome, and studies show that the long-term benefits of staffing a specialized pharmacist proves economical and sound for the clinic. In 2004, the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS)) amended their bylaws to name pharmacists as a necessary part of the transplant unit. The field is expanding to include pediatric transplant and ambulatory services, and more and more hospitals are recognizing the importance of maintaining a highly specialized and multi-faceted team.

The intensive career of the transplant pharmacist can be both exciting and rewarding. As an organ transplant pharmacist, you give new life to organ recipients, and you get to be a part of a field that regularly sees astonishing breakthroughs and solid progress. You could also go on to become an individual researcher to help with advancements in the industry. If you’re interested in becoming an organ transplant pharmacist, it helps to start early.  Apply for Organ Transplant Residencies or look for any training opportunities to get started with your career.



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