Aga Khan University Hospital, a leading not-for-profit healthcare institution in Karachi, Pakistan, is seeking a Senior Pharmacist to join its Pharmacy Services department. The hospital provides comprehensive medical services through its main tertiary care facility, multiple off-campus hospitals, medical centres, clinical laboratories, and pharmacies across Pakistan. Known for its commitment to quality and patient safety, AKUH is accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and its laboratories by the College of American Pathologists (CAP). The hospital also offers home healthcare services, medicine delivery, and financial support programs such as Zakat and Patient Welfare for eligible patients. AKUH values diversity and inclusion, fostering a respectful and supportive environment for its workforce and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Pharmacist will play a critical role within the Division of Pharmacy, which operates a multisite integrated service with advanced medication management systems and a strong focus on pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy practices. The position is based at the Stadium Road Campus, a JCI-accredited facility.
- Assist in implementing optimal drug therapy plans, guidelines, and protocols by identifying, resolving, and preventing drug-related problems. This includes evaluating medical literature, patient profiles, laboratory data, drug use trends, adverse drug reaction reports, and adherence to guidelines.
- Lead capacity building and manpower training by preparing and delivering educational programs for pharmacists, interns, and technicians. Conduct periodic knowledge assessments to ensure ongoing staff competency.
- Oversee proper inventory management and handling of drugs and pharmacy supplies to maintain operational efficiency.
- Promote patient safety and cost-effectiveness through rational medication use.
- Ensure accurate documentation and regular monitoring of controlled drug records.
- Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to communicate safe and effective medication use. Facilitate focus groups, quality grand rounds, and information dissemination through sessions or printed materials.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy, Pharm.D., or Master’s Degree in Pharmacy. Additional training in hospital pharmacy is preferred.
- Professional registration with the Pharmacy Council of Pakistan.
- Four to six years of experience in a tertiary care hospital pharmacy, including at least two years in a supervisory role.
- Strong ability to interpret prescriptions, formularies, and pharmacological actions.
- Demonstrated supervisory skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
- Flexibility to be assigned to various areas within the hospital pharmacy as needed.
- Experience in continuous professional development.
- Working knowledge of hospital pharmacy services and drug distribution systems.
Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
- Teaching experience with pharmacy apprentices or within a school of pharmacy is preferred.
- The role offers an opportunity to work in a highly reputable academic medical centre with a focus on professional growth and patient-centered care.
- Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted to ensure suitability.
This position offers a challenging and rewarding environment for a seasoned pharmacist committed to advancing pharmaceutical care and patient safety in a dynamic healthcare setting.