Becoming a board-certified oncology pharmacist requires advanced education and training beyond pharmacy school, as well as experience working in the field of oncology (cancer). Oftentimes these pharmacists may also be referred to as Heme/Onc pharmacist, short for hematology/oncology pharmacists. These pharmacists specialize in hematology (the study and treatment of the physiology of blood and cancerous blood disorders or blood diseases) and oncology (the study and treatment of solid tumors of bones and other tissues). There are currently over 4000 board-certified oncology pharmacists.
In this article, we will explore the process of becoming a board-certified oncology pharmacist, where oncology pharmacists work, and what they do.
What is an Oncology Pharmacist?
Oncology pharmacists specialize in the management of medications used in the treatment of cancer. They work closely with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective drug therapy to patients. Their role includes everything from drug selection, dosing, and monitoring to managing side effects and ensuring proper medication adherence.
Becoming a Board-Certified Oncology Pharmacist
To become a board-certified oncology pharmacist, pharmacists must first obtain a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from an accredited college or university. After graduation, they must have a current and active license to practice pharmacy in the United States, have completed a minimum of 4 years of practice experience in oncology pharmacy, or a general 1 year pharmacy residency with of 2 years of practice experience in oncology pharmacy, or a general 1 year pharmacy residency with a second 1 year pharmacy residency specializing in oncology pharmacy. While graduation from a pharmacy residency program is not required, such a residency provides advanced training in the management of chemotherapy, supportive care, and pain management.
Once the requirements are met, pharmacists can apply to take the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) Oncology Pharmacy Specialty Certification Examination. This exam tests pharmacists' knowledge and skills in the field of oncology pharmacy, including drug therapy management, patient care, and disease management.
Where Do Oncology Pharmacists Work?
Oncology pharmacists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, cancer centers, and infusion centers. An oncology pharmacist may also work in research and academic institutions, where they conduct clinical trials and develop new cancer treatments.
In these settings, oncology pharmacists collaborate with healthcare teams to provide specialized drug therapy to cancer patients. They work closely with oncologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care while managing and minimizing adverse effects of cancer treatments.
What Do Oncology Pharmacists Do?
Oncology pharmacists play a critical role in the management of cancer patients. They are responsible for a range of tasks, including:
Medication management: Oncology pharmacists select and manage drug therapies for cancer patients. They ensure that patients receive the correct dose of medication and monitor them for any side effects or drug interactions.
Patient care: Oncology pharmacists work closely with cancer patients to ensure that they receive the best possible care. They educate patients on their medications, provide support and counseling, and monitor their progress throughout treatment.
Disease management: Oncology pharmacists work with healthcare teams to develop treatment plans for cancer patients. They help to manage the disease by providing medications to control symptoms, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Research: Oncology pharmacists may also conduct research in the field of cancer treatment. They participate in clinical trials and contribute to the development of new treatments and therapies.
Treatments for hematologic and oncologic disorders are extremely complex. This area of medicine is one of the fastest growing areas of research and has led to significant drug approvals in recent years. Many of these therapies effect crucial organs including the heart, lungs, kidney, and liver and proper monitoring is essential. Also, many of these medications have the potential to cause significant side effects, so management of side effects to enable to the continuation of therapy is also vital.
Each type of cancer will have a different treatment protocol and unique considerations. Many therapies also affect fertility, so family planning and cryopreservation of sperm or eggs may be necessary. Personalized medicine and targeted therapies are very common in this space as well, and specialized knowledge is crucial. Providing thorough patient education is extremely important in this patient population and oncology pharmacists are leaders in this arena.
Closing Thoughts on The Oncology Pharmacist
Becoming a board-certified oncology pharmacist requires advanced education, training, and experience. These highly skilled professionals play a critical role in the management of cancer patients, providing specialized drug therapy, patient care, and disease management. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, cancer centers, and research institutions. Oncology pharmacists are an essential part of the healthcare team, ensuring that cancer patients receive the best possible care.
References:
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Oncology Pharmacy Specialty. Available at: https://www.ashp.org/Professional-Development/Board-Certification/Oncology-Pharmacy-Specialty. Accessed on March 8, 2023.
Board of Pharmacy Specialties. Oncology Pharmacy Specialty Certification Examination. Available at: https://www.bpsweb.org/oncology/. Accessed on March 8, 2023.
American College of Clinical Pharmacy. Oncology Pharmacy. Available at: https://www.accp.com/. Accessed on March 8, 2023.
