Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas Career Overview
As a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator, you play a vital role within the healthcare system, ensuring that medications and pharmaceutical supplies are available and properly managed. This position involves several key responsibilities that contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of pharmacy operations.
- You facilitate the procurement of pharmaceutical supplies, managing inventory levels to prevent shortages and overstocking.
- Your role includes monitoring stock levels and expiration dates, ensuring that medications are safe and effective for patient use.
- You coordinate with pharmacists, suppliers, and healthcare professionals to forecast inventory needs based on patient demand and seasonal trends.
- By maintaining accurate records of inventory transactions, you ensure compliance with regulations and contribute to the financial health of the pharmacy.
- You play a part in the implementation of technology and systems that enhance supply chain management, improving overall workflow and reducing errors.
The work you perform directly impacts the quality of patient care, as a well-managed supply chain allows pharmacists to focus on their primary tasks of medication dispensing and patient consultation. Your organizational skills and attention to detail are essential in supporting healthcare providers and ultimately ensuring that patients receive the medications they need in a timely manner.
Pharmacy Supply Coordinator Salary in Kansas
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas
To become a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas, you need to complete specific educational qualifications that provide the necessary foundation for the role. Consider pursuing one of the following degree programs:
Health and Medical Administrative Services
- This program offers essential training in managing healthcare systems and understanding the regulatory aspects of pharmacy supply management.
Health Services Administration
- Focused on the administration of health services, this degree provides skills in organizational and operational strategies crucial for overseeing pharmacy supplies.
Business Administration and Management
- A degree in this area equips you with general business principles, including supply chain management, which is vital for coordinating pharmacy resources effectively.
Pharmacy Administration and Pharmacy Policy and Regulatory Affairs
- This specialized program delves into the pharmaceutical industry's regulatory framework, enabling you to understand and navigate policies that affect pharmacy supply management.
Pharmacy
- A Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy provides a comprehensive knowledge base of pharmaceuticals, preparing you for the specifics of supply coordination within a pharmacy setting.
Ensure that you select a program accredited by relevant bodies to enhance your employability in the field. Upon completing your degree, you may also benefit from relevant internships or coursework that provides practical experience in pharmacy operations and supply chain management.
Best Schools to become a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas 2024
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Southern New Hampshire University
Western Governors University
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Grand Canyon University
Liberty University
- Record drugs delivered to the pharmacy, store incoming merchandise, and inform the supervisor of stock needs.
- May operate cash register and accept prescriptions for filling.
Pharmacy Supply Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas
Attention to Detail: You must have a keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in inventory management, order fulfillment, and compliance with safety regulations.
Organizational Skills: The ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and maintain an organized workspace is essential for effective supply chain management.
Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is required for collaborating with pharmacy staff, suppliers, and healthcare professionals.
Analytical Skills: You should be able to analyze supply data, track usage patterns, and forecast inventory needs to minimize shortages and overstock situations.
Problem-Solving Skills: Addressing supply chain issues promptly and effectively requires strong problem-solving abilities to find viable solutions.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with pharmacy management software and inventory management systems is important for tracking supplies and orders accurately.
Time Management: You need to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively to ensure that supplies are ordered and received in a timely manner.
Customer Service Orientation: Providing excellent service to pharmacy staff and other stakeholders is vital for maintaining strong working relationships.
Teamwork: Working collaboratively with different departments ensures smooth operations and helps in achieving common objectives.
Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding relevant healthcare regulations and compliance standards is necessary to ensure that pharmaceutical supplies meet legal requirements.
Adaptability: Being able to adjust to changing circumstances, such as shifts in inventory needs or supplier issues, is essential for success in this role.
Job Duties for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators
Accept prescriptions for filling, gathering and processing necessary information.
Greet customers and help them locate merchandise.
Operate cash register to process cash or credit sales.
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas
The job market for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators in Kansas is characterized by a steady demand and promising growth potential. Here are some key insights:
Demand: The increasing complexity of healthcare and the rising need for pharmacy services have led to a consistent demand for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators. As healthcare facilities expand their operations and seek to streamline their supply chains, the role of the coordinator becomes increasingly vital.
Growth Potential: The profession is expected to witness growth due to several factors:
- Ongoing advancements in pharmaceutical technology contribute to the need for efficient supply management.
- The aging population in Kansas is driving demand for medications and related services, resulting in higher requirements for pharmacy supplies.
- The expansion of retail and specialty pharmacies throughout the state creates additional positions in this field.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Kansas City: As a major urban center, Kansas City offers numerous opportunities within hospitals, retail pharmacies, and clinics, making it a significant hub for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators.
- Wichita: This city is another key area where healthcare facilities are growing, leading to an increased demand for supply chain professionals in the pharmaceutical sector.
- Topeka: As the state capital, Topeka has several healthcare institutions that require efficient pharmacy supply coordination, presenting job opportunities for professionals in the field.
- Lawrence and Manhattan: These college towns also contribute to the job market through both educational and healthcare facilities, offering unique roles that often intersect with academic research and patient care.
Overall, the job market for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators in Kansas is favorable, with a variety of opportunities across urban and suburban settings. The ongoing changes and improvements within the healthcare industry continually enhance the prospects for aspiring professionals in this field.
Top Related Careers to Pharmacy Supply Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas
American Pharmacists Association (APhA)
- Website: www.pharmacist.com
- Overview: APhA provides resources, training, and certification for pharmacy professionals. Their resources can help you stay informed about industry standards and practices.
National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
- Website: www.nabp.pharmacy
- Overview: NABP works to protect public health by advancing compliance for pharmacy practice. Their guidelines and regulations are vital for anyone in the pharmacy field.
Kansas Pharmacists Association (KPhA)
- Website: www.kspharmacists.com
- Overview: KPhA is the local organization providing support and resources for pharmacists in Kansas. They offer networking opportunities and access to state-specific regulations.
Pharmacy Supply Chain Management Resources
- Website: www.pharmacytechniciancertificationboard.org
- Overview: The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board provides information on certification and training resources essential for pharmacy supply coordinators.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Website: www.fda.gov
- Overview: The FDA offers guidelines on medication safety, product recalls, and regulations that are crucial for managing pharmacy supplies.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- Website: www.dea.gov
- Overview: The DEA provides resources regarding controlled substances, regulations, and compliance that pharmacy supply coordinators should be familiar with.
Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP)
- Website: www.ismp.org
- Overview: ISMP focuses on improving medication safety. Accessing their guidelines and best practices can enhance your role in the supply chain.
CareerOneStop: Pharmacy Technician
- Website: www.careeronestop.org
- Overview: This resource provides information about career paths within pharmacy, including job descriptions, skills needed, and wage estimates.
LinkedIn Learning: Pharmacy Supply Chain Management
- Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
- Overview: LinkedIn Learning offers various courses related to supply chain management in pharmacy settings. Consider subscribing for continued professional development.
Books and Journals
Pharmacy Supply Chain Management: A Practical Guide
- Author: John L. McCarthy
- Overview: This book provides insights into effective supply chain management practices in pharmacy settings.
American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy
- Website: academic.oup.com/ajhp
- Overview: This journal features articles on contemporary issues affecting pharmacy practice, including supply chain management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas
What is the primary role of a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator? A Pharmacy Supply Coordinator manages the supply chain for pharmaceutical products, overseeing inventory levels, ordering medications and supplies, and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards. You will also coordinate with vendors and pharmacies to optimize supply management.
What qualifications are needed to become a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator? Typically, you should possess an associate’s or bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology, healthcare administration, or a related field. Certification as a pharmacy technician may also be beneficial, along with experience in pharmacy operations or supply chain management.
Is a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator the same as a Pharmacy Technician? While both roles are involved in the pharmaceutical industry, a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator focuses mainly on inventory management and supply chain operations, whereas a Pharmacy Technician is more involved in the preparation and dispensing of medications and patient interaction.
What skills are essential for a successful Pharmacy Supply Coordinator? Key skills include attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, effective communication, proficiency in inventory management software, and knowledge of regulatory requirements pertaining to pharmaceuticals.
What are the work settings for a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator? You may work in various environments, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, pharmaceutical distribution centers, or healthcare organizations. Each setting may have different demands and workflows.
How does one advance in a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator career? Advancement opportunities may include roles such as Pharmacy Operations Manager or Supply Chain Manager. Continuing education, obtaining certifications, and gaining experience in operational leadership can enhance your career prospects.
What are the average salary expectations for a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator in Kansas? Salary can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. Generally, salaries for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators in Kansas range from $40,000 to $65,000 annually.
What continuing education opportunities should I pursue? You may consider pursuing courses in supply chain management, pharmacy compliance, or healthcare administration. Additionally, obtaining certifications such as Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) or certifications related to supply chain management can be advantageous.
Are there professional organizations for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators? Yes, organizations such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) provide resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education for professionals in the pharmacy field.
How does technology impact the role of a Pharmacy Supply Coordinator? Technology plays a significant role in inventory management and data tracking. Familiarity with automated inventory systems and pharmacy management software is increasingly critical for coordinating supplies efficiently and accurately.
Is there a demand for Pharmacy Supply Coordinators in Kansas? Yes, with the ongoing need for efficient healthcare delivery and inventory management, the demand for skilled Pharmacy Supply Coordinators is expected to remain steady in Kansas and across the country.