Even retirees whose former employers continue to offer coverage until Medicare kicks in at age 65 can expect a bit of sticker shock. As health-care costs continue to rise, companies are reducing coverage or requiring retirees to pay more.
Education Law requires that registered pharmacists complete continuing education. A minimum of 45 contact hours (at least 23 live) is required in each three-year registration period. As of September 1, 2003, the 45 hours required must include at least 3 credits (home study or live) of formal continuing education on strategies and techniques to reduce medication and prescription errors.
Many pharmacists spend most of their workday on their feet. When working with sterile or dangerous pharmaceutical products, pharmacists wear gloves, masks, and other protective equipment. Most pharmacists work about 40 hours a week, but about 12 percent worked more than 50 hours per week in 2008. In addition, about 19 percent of pharmacists worked part-time. Many community and hospital pharmacies are open for extended hours, so pharmacists may be required to work nights, weekends, and holidays.