The Happy PharmD Blog
We Get Pharmacists Jobs They Love
Are Fake Online Pharmacies Ripping You Off?
If you think your patients aren’t looking at online pharmacies for cheaper medications, you’re kidding yourself. Medicine is expensive—everything is expensive. And when people are desperate, they look for alternatives. The problem? 96% of online pharmacies are...
Who Are The Happiest Pharmacists? Stats Revealed
Pharmacists are burning out at record rates. We’ve all seen it, lived it, and for many, struggled to find a way out. But what if I told you that there are pharmacists out there thriving—engaged, valued, and even excited about their work? The data doesn’t lie, and it...
Pharmacy’s Great Displacement: What’s Coming by 2045?
Pharmacy is heading toward a breaking point. The way we’ve been treated, the way our profession has been devalued—it’s not sustainable. By 2045, I believe we will either see a complete transformation or a collapse that forces change. And frankly, I don’t think most...
The World’s Most Famous Pharmacist? Ariel Tsai Left Pharmacy for Music!
Pharmacists are supposed to have stable, well-paying careers. That’s what we’re told, right? Get the degree, pass the exams, land the job, and enjoy a predictable life. But what happens when the “safe” path starts to feel like a cage? Ariel Tsai knows exactly what...
![How to Become a Medical Affairs Specialist [Career Path Guide]](http://thehappypharmd.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Medical-Affairs-400x250.png)
How to Become a Medical Affairs Specialist [Career Path Guide]
Pharmacists who want to break into medical affairs often feel stuck. They know they want a change, but they’re unsure how to make the transition—especially when they have zero industry experience. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to start over. You don’t need...
How Pharmacists Can Break Into Medical Writing and Earn Big
Pharmacists have a problem. We spend years—six, eight, even ten—earning a doctorate, grinding through rotations, studying complex drug interactions, and mastering clinical guidelines. And yet, we box ourselves into a career that often leaves us overworked,...
Should Pharmacists Work at UHG? Here’s the Reality
Life-or-death decisions happen in minutes. That’s the reality of UnitedHealth Group (UHG). With a single decision, one employee can determine whether a patient receives critical treatment or gets denied access to life-saving care. But how did we get here? How did one...
Your Pharmacist Cover Letter Sucks! Here’s Why…
Hiring managers are tossing out your application, and you don’t even know why. You might think it’s because of your experience, your resume, or just bad luck. But one of the biggest reasons? You’re not writing a cover letter. Most pharmacists don’t, and that’s a...
10 Reasons Remote Pharmacist Work is Amazing
Waking up without an alarm, sipping coffee on the porch, and actually enjoying breakfast with my family—this isn’t a vacation. This is my life as a remote pharmacist. No commute. No rigid schedule. No stress of dealing with impatient customers face-to-face. Just...
Hate Your Pharmacist Job? Do This!
I know what it’s like to feel completely drained by your pharmacy job, to feel like every shift chips away at whatever passion you once had. It starts as frustration, then exhaustion, then full-blown burnout. And the worst part? It doesn’t just stay at work. It...
Will AI Replace Pharmacists? The Truth
AI is coming for pharmacy. Or at least, that’s what the headlines want us to believe. “AI Passes Medical Board Exam.” “Robots Taking Over Healthcare Jobs.” These stories make it sound like pharmacists are one step away from being replaced. But the truth? AI is missing...
Finding a Pharmacy Job Is HARDER Than You Think
Finding any job as a pharmacist isn’t difficult. If you want to work in a retail setting, you can probably land something without too much effort. But if you’re looking for a better job—one that excites you, gives you flexibility, or moves your career in a new...
9 Side Hustles Pharmacists Are Crushing Right Now
I’ve spent years in pharmacy, and I know the grind all too well. There comes a point when you start wondering if there isn’t a better way to leverage all those years of training and experience. That’s when I discovered a whole world of side hustles—opportunities that...
What It’s Really Like to Work at Costco Pharmacy: Careers, Culture & Compensation
I took a deep dive into Costco Pharmacy, and what I discovered both surprised and frustrated me. Behind the familiar image of bulk paper towels and $1.50 hot dogs lies a story of rapid growth, innovation, and a fair share of challenges that even...
Why I Chose Pharmacy and Would I Do It Again?
There are moments in life when you question if you made the right choice. When I first entered pharmacy, I remember the feeling of uncertainty. I’d chosen a career in my twenties, a time when you’re still figuring out who you are and where you want to go. Pharmacy...
Don’t Go to Pharmacy School Until You Watch This
I used to think pharmacy was the perfect career—steady income, respect, and a chance to help people. But over the years, I’ve seen far too many pharmacists burn out, regret their investment, or discover that pharmacy wasn’t really what they wanted in the first place....
Red Flags in Pharmacy Jobs You Can’t Ignore
Have you ever taken a job and regretted it immediately? You're not alone—many pharmacists miss the red flags during interviews that signal a toxic workplace. But here’s the good news: these warning signs are easy to spot if you know where to look. They can save you...
How to Negotiate Your Pharmacist Salary Like a Pro
It’s crazy to think that most pharmacists are leaving thousands of dollars on the table simply because they’re afraid to negotiate their salary. I get it—negotiating can feel uncomfortable. Talking about money always does. But here’s the truth: if you’re not...
Publix Pharmacy Career Review: The Good, The Bad, and The Future
Forget everything you think you know about grocery store pharmacies. Publix is setting a new standard, and it's not just about filling prescriptions in a corner of the grocery store anymore. Publix Pharmacy is evolving into something much more—offering healthcare...
Stop Hating Your Pharmacy Job: Here’s What You Can Do
There’s something that I’ve noticed in the pharmacy world – it’s rare to find someone who genuinely loves their job. Sure, there are those who get a kick out of what they do, but for many of us, we’re just counting the hours until our shift ends, wishing we were...
7 Signs It’s Time to Quit Your Pharmacy Job (And 3 Steps to Find Something Better)
Look, I’ve worked with thousands of pharmacists—and I’m going to tell you something that might surprise you. Quitting isn’t always the answer—but sometimes, it absolutely is. In this article, I’ll share seven key red flags that might signal it's time to...
Why Pharmacists Are Leaving: Burnout, Low Pay & Unmet Expectations
Pharmacists are at a breaking point. Once passionate about their careers, many are now feeling burnt out, overworked, and honestly, disillusioned. It’s hard to ignore the signs—empty shelves, frustrated staff, angry customers, and more pharmacists walking out the door...
Is CVS Worth It? What You Need to Know Before Applying
CVS, the pharmacy giant, has become a source of significant concern for many pharmacists and pharmacy professionals. It’s a story of a company that, despite bringing in staggering revenue, is struggling under the weight of internal challenges that are creating a...
Trump Withdraws From WHO: What’s Next for Pharmacists
It’s January 2025, and the United States has decided to withdraw from the World Health Organization. The announcement was framed around the idea that the U.S. is paying far too much compared to countries like China, which has a population of 1.4 billion but only pays...
Why Healthcare Heroes Are Walking Away: The Mass Exodus Explained
There’s something big happening in healthcare right now. It’s a trend that’s becoming impossible to ignore. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physician assistants, and others are leaving their roles in droves, and the truth is, the consequences are already being felt....
Retail vs. Hospital Pharmacy: Which Career Path is Right for You?
When deciding between retail and hospital pharmacy, the career path you choose could drastically shape your professional life. Both paths contribute significantly to the pharmacy job market, but each offers distinct experiences and opportunities. Your future could...
Why Pharmacists Are Leaving: A Crisis in Healthcare
More and more pharmacists are walking away from the profession. The white coat is coming off, and pharmacists are heading for the exit. It’s a mass exodus that's just beginning, and it’s happening for a lot of reasons, each one contributing to a situation that’s not...
PGY1 Residency: The Hard Truth They Don’t Tell You!
There’s a myth that if you don’t do a residency, you’re somehow behind in your pharmacy career. I get it—residencies have been heavily promoted, and for a good reason. They open doors. They offer valuable hands-on experience, expand your professional network, and help...
The Best (and Worst) of ASHP Midyear 2024: My Honest Review
I recently returned from ASHP Mid Year, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable experience—mostly for the good, but a few things definitely left me scratching my head. It’s one of those events where you meet incredible people, learn a lot, and get inspired—but...
Ozempic Scams: How Counterfeit Drugs Are Fooling Everyone
The FDA recently uncovered thousands of counterfeit Ozempic pens in legitimate pharmacies across the U.S., and let me tell you, as a pharmacist, this is both terrifying and eye-opening. What makes this situation even worse is that these fakes weren’t from shady...
How Pharmacy Is Evolving: A New Era of Innovation and Opportunity
Pharmacy is at a turning point—a moment where the challenges we face are so significant that they’re creating space for something extraordinary. Despite the burnout, closures, PBMs squeezing every last penny, and the relentless pressure to do more with less, this is...
Why the United Healthcare CEO Was Assassinated: The Shocking Message to the Healthcare System
On a freezing December morning in Manhattan, a CEO walked down the sidewalk, heading to what should have been just another investor conference. Moments later, he was gunned down in broad daylight — a moment that wasn’t random but calculated. The assassination of...
Pharmacy Resume Mistakes You Must Avoid!
In today’s competitive pharmacy job market, sending out a resume and hearing nothing in return can be incredibly frustrating. It often feels like a great opportunity slips through your fingers with every application, but what if the problem isn’t you — it’s the resume...
The REAL Reason Pharmacists Hate Vaccines (Not What You Think)
Pharmacists don’t hate giving vaccines. They don’t hate helping people. What they hate is being overwhelmed, undervalued, and unable to provide the level of care they know patients deserve. It’s easy to misinterpret the challenges pharmacists face when it comes to...
The Dangerous Truth About Mail Order Pharmacies: Rising Costs and Hidden Risks
Mail order pharmacies have exploded in popularity in recent years, but many pharmacists and patients are starting to notice something isn’t quite right. The convenience of receiving prescriptions at home is appealing, but it’s coming at a hidden cost. Over the past...
Top 3 Highest-Paid Pharmacy Jobs: Are They Worth It?
Pharmacists often face a tough reality when it comes to salary. The average pharmacist salary, which increased from $125K in 2019 to $129K in 2020, sounds like progress, but when adjusted for inflation, the buying power has actually decreased. The truth is, inflation...
Is ASHP Worth it?
Attending ASHP Midyear is a significant commitment, both in terms of time and money. For those considering it, the question remains: Is it worth it? ASHP Midyear, happening this year from December 8th to the 12th in New Orleans, is the largest gathering...
Is Pain Management Pharmacy Right For You?
Chronic pain affects millions of people, and it comes with a staggering cost — both to individuals and the healthcare system. But for those interested in a fulfilling and impactful career, the role of a pain management pharmacist might be the perfect fit. In this...
3 Side Hustles Every Pharmacist Can Start Today
As pharmacists, we often overlook the true value of our expertise. The public expects us to provide answers and guidance for free — it’s just part of the role, right? But what many of us don’t realize is that companies are willing to pay a premium for the knowledge we...
Is Kroger Pharmacy Failing? A Breakdown of Their Struggles and Ambitions
Kroger’s pharmacy story is a tale of ambition colliding with harsh realities, leaving both pharmacists and patients grappling with its fallout. With over 2,200 pharmacies spread across 35 states, Kroger has become a household name, not just for groceries but...
Pharmacy Closures in 2024: What’s Really Happening and What It Means for You
Pharmacies are closing at an alarming rate in 2024, and the consequences are shaking the very foundation of healthcare in this country. Nearly 2,300 pharmacies have shut their doors since the start of the year, with closures happening at a pace of around eight...
Target Pharmacy Failure: What Happened
In a world where pharmacy chains are constantly shifting and adapting, the story of Target’s foray into the pharmacy business is a compelling one. It all began in the early 1990s when Target decided to add pharmacies to its retail empire, a bold move...
Understanding Pharmacist Burnout: Causes and Solutions
Burnout is a reality that many pharmacists face, and I’m no exception to this struggle. Over the years, studies have revealed that at least half of all pharmacists experience burnout, yet there's a pervasive notion that it's a personal issue — a burden we must...
Is Specialty Pharmacy Right For You?
In the world of pharmacy, the realm of specialty pharmacy stands as a beacon of opportunity and challenge alike. With over $301 billion in revenue generated in 2021 alone, it’s clear that this sector is a vital part of modern healthcare. Specialty pharmacists...
Is Pharmacovigilance Pharmacy Right For You?
Is being a pharmacovigilance or drug safety pharmacist something you're considering? Wondering about the financial prospects and whether it's the right career move for you? Let's dive into the world of pharmacovigilance (PV) and drug safety to explore what it entails...
Rite Aid’s Closing and Bankruptcy: The Full Story!
In 1962, Rite Aid began its journey as a humble health and beauty store known as Thrift E Discount Center. Over the decades, it transformed into a pharmacy powerhouse, expanding through strategic acquisitions to over 2,000 stores by 2022. Despite its...
A Dream Pharmacy Job in Less Than Three Months
Stephanie Thompson's journey at ProxsysRx began with her assignment to a critical access hospital in Laceria, Louisiana, where she helped launch a much-needed community pharmacy. This new venture filled a void left by local closures, making a meaningful impact...
Is Neurology Pharmacy Right For You?
Clinical pharmacists never regret their career choices, right? Well, what if I told you that 50% to 70% of clinical pharmacists are experiencing burnout and work exhaustion? This is an important fact to consider if you are looking into neurology pharmacy. ...
Walgreens – Do Pharmacists Hate It?
Walgreens, a cornerstone of American drugstore chains, evokes mixed sentiments among pharmacists nationwide. As the founder of The Happy PharmD, I delve into the complexities behind these sentiments and what they mean for pharmacists considering careers at Walgreens....
Is Nuclear Pharmacy Right For You?
Ever thought about being a nuclear pharmacist? Well, maybe it's right for you because 55% of these pharmacists say that they love their job and find it very satisfying. But is it the right kind of challenge? In this field, you may encounter stiff competition, limited...
Is Cannabis Pharmacy Right For You?
Have you ever considered a career as a cannabis pharmacist? With legalization spreading across many states, this once-controversial field is gaining traction among pharmacists. At The Happy PharmD, we explore what it means to step into this unique role, delving into...
Is Grocery Pharmacy Right For You
Is a grocery pharmacist a good career choice? This question resonates deeply with many pharmacists, especially those seeking better work-life balance and fulfillment. Let's dive into the world of grocery store pharmacy and unpack what it means for your career. ...
State of Well-Being 2023-2024
Wondering how our healthcare professionals, especially pharmacists, are faring lately? Well, now's the perfect time to dive into a discussion with me about the latest insights from the 2023 report by the Well-Being Index. Whether you're new here or a regular viewer, a...
Is Retail Pharmacy Right For You?
Retail pharmacy careers have long been a hot topic among pharmacists, and for good reason. These roles make up nearly half of all pharmacy jobs in the U.S., operating within a network of thousands of pharmacies across the country. Despite the sheer volume of...
The Power of Coaching: From Retail Pharmacist to Pharmacy Director
In a recent interview with Saudia Christiani, a pharmacist who successfully transitioned into a new role, we delved into her journey from uncertainty to fulfillment in her career. Saudia candidly shared her initial challenges, admitting she used to "wing it" during...
Is Infusion Pharmacy Right For You?
Did you know that the infusion pharmacy market is projected to reach $20 billion dollars by 2027? Many pharmacists wonder how this growth could impact their careers. In this article, we delve into the world of infusion pharmacy, exploring salary prospects, job...
Is Poison Control Pharmacy Right For You?
Imagine a pharmacy career where every moment could be life and death. Well, that's the reality for poison control pharmacists in toxicology. They handle everything from 12-hour shifts to being on call, all while sometimes not earning as much as their peers in other...
Is Oncology Pharmacy Right For You?
Oncology pharmacy is a field that demands deep consideration before diving in. It's not just about the medicine; it's about the emotional toll and the profound impact on patients' lives. As someone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to cancer, I understand...
Is Anticoagulation Pharmacy Right For You?
I didn't always see a future in anticoagulation pharmacy. It seemed like a dying niche, especially with the advent of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like Apixaban and Rivaroxaban taking over from Warfarin. These thoughts crossed my mind often during my days...
Is Psychiatric Pharmacy Right For You?
Psychiatric pharmacists play a crucial role in mental health care, offering immense job satisfaction despite challenges like lower pay compared to other clinical professions. It makes you wonder — why is such a vital role undervalued? Perhaps because job...
