The Pharmacy Assistant provides pharmaceutical care to patients within the UPMC Health System by primarily assisting with the organization, stocking, and distribution of medications while under the direct supervisor of a licensed pharmacist. The Pharmacy Assistant services are provided in compliance with Department of Health, The Joint Commission, and State Board of Pharmacy regulations.

Responsibilities:

• Provides and receives information (via telephone, person-to-person, or written) to hospital personnel, patients and visitors. Refer all drug information questions to Staff Pharmacists.
• Finalizes sales using cash register, follow proper cash handling policies and procedures
• Participates in the distribution of medication including medication cassettes, emergency medication carts and the delivery of controlled substances per department policy and state and federal requirements.
• Assists in the preparation of the proper oral medications for the correct patient for administration at the appropriate time.
• Uses proper technique in the preparation of medications.
• Develops and maintain a clean, organized, and adequately stocked work environment.
• Assists in filling medication orders through correct labeling, counting and stocking practices.
• Initials and date products as required.
• Ensures that all medications in all areas have been safely and securely stored according to Department of Health, The Joint Commission, and State Board of Pharmacy regulations.
• Maintains all pertinent documentation as required. This includes eye wash logs, refrigerator logs, perpetual inventory logs etc.
• Retrieves medications that have been discontinued and return (and credits if necessary) them to the appropriate pharmacy area.
• Complies with Federal and State laws such as HIPAA, regulations such as OSHA, and PBM contracting requirements such as FWA and CMS.
• Practices appropriate hand hygiene both in the pharmacy and in the units.
• Develops and maintain positive and productive service relationship during medication distribution process.
• Uses computer skills to process and maintain all patient information and records.