The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 273 No 7313 p254-255
21 August 2004

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· Retention fee
· Shipman inquiry
· Politicians
· Simvastatin
· EHC
· Careers in pharmacy
· Packaging
· Wildlife
· The Charter
· Council elections

Letters to the Editor

Careers in pharmacy

Consider the pharmaceutical industry

From Dr J. A. Hunt, FRPharmS

I was disturbed when I read the letter from Christopher Chapman (PJ, 31 July, p150) to think that he might throw away a career in pharmacy as a result of his experiences during his six-month placement in community pharmacy. I would earnestly encourage him to complete his studies. Community pharmacy is a worthy calling which brings major health benefits to the public at large. However, it cannot be expected to suit all pharmacists any more than any other role. Pharmacy is one of the world’s greatest professions and offers a broad canvas. I hope that hospital pharmacy will be better suited to Mr Chapman’s abilities. I would also urge him to consider the pharmaceutical industry as a career prospect.

Like Mr Chapman I studied pharmacy at Bradford. Later, following some community and hospital experience, I joined a major pharmaceutical company. This led to a career in pharmacy which took me all over the world, meeting pharmacists and other health professionals from many nations. Life was full of interest and of challenges in which my pharmaceutical training proved invaluable. I have never regretted my decision. One does not have to become a research worker in the industry, although many have made a marked success of this. There are great opportunities in sales, marketing, information services and general business management, which can lead to senior positions with major responsibilities. I hope that Mr Chapman will give full consideration to the many opportunities which pharmacy is able to offer an enthusiastic young graduate.

John A. Hunt
Southport, Merseyside

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