Pain Management and Palliative Care Pharmacist
The hardest times in life are when we’re most thankful to those that help ease our pain, whether emotionally or physically. We look to family and friends to help see us through, and we work to build a support system for guidance. But when the physical pain becomes too much, it’s good to know our healthcare system is here to help, and the pain management and palliative care pharmacist can do just that.
What is a Pain Management and Palliative Care Pharmacist?
Pain management is the act of identifying the cause of pain and reducing the amount of discomfort associated with that pain. Pain is often the first sign of an illness or condition, and the physician and pharmacist can work together to identify the greater problem based on the symptoms.
A pain management pharmacist prescribes medication to reduce pain, and a palliative care pharmacist specializes in reducing the pain of those suffering from a life-threatening illness. Palliative care pharmacists work to identify the illness early on and to properly assess and treat the patient by accurately prescribing medications.
The goal of the palliative care pharmacist is not to hasten or postpone death, but rather to guide the patient through the natural progression and to strive for a peaceful conclusion free from suffering. The palliative care pharmacist works to enhance the quality of life by easing the patient’s discomfort.
What are the Education and Job Requirements?
Like all pharmacy careers, a PharmD is often required in the field of pain management and palliative care. It is also strongly recommended to complete at least one residency in the specialization. Additional recommendations that can set you apart from other applicants include experience working with the critically ill, which can be completed through hospice volunteer work, or joining organizations and initiatives that deal with medication and pain management.
The job requirements extend much further than the right education, however. A pain management and palliative care pharmacist must have impeccable communication and listening skills, because the job requires the proper identification of the areas and types of pain based on what the patient vocalizes. The palliative care pharmacy encompasses the spiritual and psychological aspect of patient care, and understanding the needs of the dying is crucial. Palliative care pharmacists not only work with the technical aspects of the profession, but they offer compassion and support to the patients as they help guide them through the final stages of life.
The pain management and palliative care pharmacy can be a truly rewarding profession that extends into the psychological and the spiritual. Easing pain and suffering can be one of the best gifts we can give to those in need. If you’re looking for a pharmacy career with these rewards, keep an eye out for open positions, residencies, and volunteer opportunities to help build your resume.
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