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Does Your Pharmacy Offer Compounding? What You Need to Know

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Pharmaceutical compounding is an important part of the care that pharmacy staff provide for patients daily. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) sets national standards for nonsterile and sterile pharmacy compounding in USP <795> and USP <797> respectively. These standards outline the information needed to compound a safe pharmaceutical product, from training requirements to personal garbing, to beyond-use dates, and more. On November 1, 2022, USP issued major updates to USP <795> and USP <797>. Pharmacies around the country had until November 1, 2023, to put these changes into practice. As a pharmacist, it is important to understand and implement the most updated USP guidelines to ensure the accuracy and safety of all the products the pharmacy generates. Reviewing these major changes will also be critical for pharmacists studying for licensure!

Why where USP <795> and <797> changed?

USP <795> and <797> were updated for the following reasons:

  • To reflect improvement in pharmacy practice and science
  • To provide clarification on information that was commonly misunderstood
  • To integrate ideas from stakeholders

Updates to USP <795> for nonsterile pharmacy compounding

Multiple updates were made to USP <795> including training and personal garbing requirements, specifications for compounding areas, instructions for using master formulation and compounding records, and changes to beyond-use dates (BUDs). The following tables highlight some of the updates to the USP <795> requirements.

BUDs were the biggest change when USP <795> was updated in 2022. Nonsterile compounds are now defined by their water activity instead of being categorized as nonaqueous or water-containing. Water activity (Aw) is used to determine how likely contamination by microbes and/or degradation by hydrolysis is to occur for nonsterile compounded products. Aqueous products have an Aw ≥ 0.6 and nonaqueous products have an Aw < 0.6.

Updates to USP <797> for sterile pharmacy compounding

Many updates were made to USP <797>. The most notable update was a change in the definition of microbial contamination categories for sterile compounded products. This definition change was reflected in many of the other updates including personal garbing, aseptic technique evaluations, and beyond-use dates. Requirements for master formulation records and compounding recorders were also specified. The following tables compare the old USP <797> requirements to the new USP <797> requirements but do not represent all the changes made.

  • Category 1 compounds must be prepared in at least an ISO Class 5 area that is placed in a segregated compounding area. These compounds require the least amount of environmental control.
  • Category 2 compounds must be prepared in a cleanroom and require more control of the environment than category 1 compounds.
  • Category 3 compounds must be prepared in a cleanroom. They undergo additional sterility testing and have added requirements for the area in which they are compounded so that they can have longer BUDs. Those requirements include additional training, sterile garb, cleaning, and monitoring of the environment.
*CRT = controlled room temperature

Putting these changes into practice!

USP <795> and <797> have recently been updated to improve standards of practice in compounding. These changes encompass a wide variety of updates from personal garbing to beyond-use dates. It is important to implement and follow these new guidelines in every pharmacy that provides compounding services for the health and safety of all patients.

Margaret M., APPE Student

References

  1. USP Compounding Standards and Beyond-Use Dates. United States Pharmacopeia. Available at: https://www.usp.org/sites/default/files/usp/document/our-work/compounding/usp-bud-factsheet.pdf. Accessed August 20, 2024.
  2. USP <795> Key Changes. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Available at: https://www.ashp.org/-/media/assets/pharmacy-practice/resource-centers/compounding/docs/USP-795-Key-Changes.pdf. Accessed August 20, 2024.
  3. USP <797> Key Changes. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Available at: https://www.ashp.org/-/media/assets/pharmacy-practice/resource-centers/compounding/docs/USP-797-Key-Changes.pdf. Accessed August 20, 2024.
  4. <795> FAQs. United States Pharmacopeia. Available at: https://go.usp.org/USP_GC_795_FAQs?_gl=1*3djyew*_gcl_au*MTEyNjE5NjUxMi4xNzI0MTYwODgz*_ga*MTEzMjYzODUzOC4xNzI0MTYwODgz*_ga_DTGQ04CR27*MTcyNDE2MDg4My4xLjEuMTcyNDE2NjU3Mi4wLjAuMA. Accessed August 20, 2024.
  5. <797> FAQs. United States Pharmacopeia. Available at: https://go.usp.org/USP_GC_797_FAQs?_gl=1*xwon9t*_gcl_au*MTEyNjE5NjUxMi4xNzI0MTYwODgz*_ga*MTEzMjYzODUzOC4xNzI0MTYwODgz*_ga_DTGQ04CR27*MTcyNDE3MjQ4NS4yLjAuMTcyNDE3MjQ5MC4wLjAuMA. Accessed August 20, 2024.
  6. Revisions to USP Compounding Standards <795> and <797>. National Community Pharmacist Association. Available at: https://ncpa.org/sites/default/files/2022-11/2022-ncpa-usp-presentation.pdf. Accessed August 20, 2024.

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How to Pass Your MPJE Exam the First Time

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Remember the one or two pharmacy law classes you took in school? They may feel like a distant memory, but knowledge of the federal and state laws is crucial in passing the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination® (MPJE®).

Exam Information and Breakdown

You might be wondering, “Do I HAVE to take the MPJE?” It varies by state or jurisdiction, but as of 2024, the following boards of pharmacy do not require a jurisprudence exam:

  • Alaska
  • Idaho
  • Michigan
  • Puerto Rico
  • Vermont
  • Virgin Islands

If you are not seeking licensure in the states or jurisdictions mentioned above, you are required to pass the MPJE® to practice as a pharmacist. Another thing to note is that Arkansas and California have their own jurisprudence exam. Each state’s unique laws and regulations make this exam necessary, ensuring pharmacists are well-versed in the laws and compliant in practice.

Recent statistics show a downward trend in MPJE® first-time pass rates, reflecting the growing difficulty of the exam. For instance, the mean first time pass rate was 77.6% in 2021, 73.8% in 2022, and decreased even more to 72% in 2023. While the specifics of the MPJE® can be challenging, understanding its format and preparing effectively will set you up for success.

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To tackle the MPJE® with confidence, it helps to know what to expect on exam day. The MPJE® is a 2.5-hour test featuring 120 questions designed to adapt to your responses. Out of these, 100 questions will impact your score, while the remaining 20 are pretest questions meant for future exams. You won’t know which questions are pretest questions, so it is in your best interest to answer all questions. Similar to the NAPLEX ®, you’ll answer questions in the sequence they appear and there is no option to skip or revisit questions once you have moved on. The MPJE® test results are reported simply as “Pass” or “Fail”, with no numerical score. Understanding this format can guide your study strategy and time management.

What will you be tested on? As of October 2023, the MPJE® will test you on the following key competencies:

Exam Study Tips and Helpful Suggestions

Now that you’re familiar with the exam layout, let’s dive into some effective study tips and strategies to help you prepare and ace the MPJE®.

  1. When in Doubt, Stick with the Stricter Law

Navigating the MPJE® can be tricky, especially since laws vary between federal and state levels. When you’re unsure, go with the stricter law in order to make sure you are answering the questions correctly. Always refer to your state’s board of pharmacy website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. These sites offer details on state laws, regulations, and policies, and frequently asked questions that clarify common questions and ambiguities.

  1. Read Slowly

Legal terminology can feel like a whole new language for pharmacists. After all, you weren’t trained to be well versed in knowing lots of legal jargon. To navigate this unfamiliar territory, take your time with the material. Reading slowly helps you process and understand complex legal concepts better. As you continue studying, these terms will become more familiar, making it easier to grasp the law.

  1. Know Your Controlled Substances

Make time to understand the different schedules for controlled substances, as these can vary by state. The DEA Manual for Pharmacists is a great resource to read up on regarding the regulations surrounding controlled substances. The exam often includes scenario-based questions where you’ll need to know the specific schedule of a drug and how it affects prescribing and dispensing practices. For these reasons, it is important to make sure you’re familiar with how different substances are categorized and any state-specific nuances that might apply. 

  1. Know Your Numbers

Memorize key numbers related to pharmacy law. Some examples include:

  • DEA form numbers
  • Prescription expiration dates
  • Record retention periods
  • Technician-to-pharmacist ratios
  • Refill limits
  • Time limits to notify the state board of pharmacy for closures and address changes
  1. Practice, Practice, Practice

The MPJE® may include scenario-based questions that may seem unfamiliar. When in doubt, approach these questions by eliminating incorrect options and doing your best with arriving to the most logical answer on the exam. For targeted practice, RxPharmacist offers state-specific study guides  designed by recent graduates. These concise guides feature two full practice exams covering both federal and state laws, helping you feel confident and well-prepared to pass your MPJE® on the first try. 

While the MPJE® might seem like a daunting exam, thorough preparation will set you up for success. Follow these study tips and stay focused and confident—you are capable and have the skills to succeed. Good luck!

Winnie Chu

RxPharmacist Team

References:

  1. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Which States Require the MPJE? Available at: https://nabp.pharmacy/help/which-states-require-the-mpje/. Accessed July 23, 2024.
  2. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. What is the MPJE? NABP Bulletin. Available at: https://read.nxtbook.com/nabp/bulletin/naplex_mpje_bulletin/what_is_the_mpje.html. Accessed July 23, 2024.
  3. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. MPJE Pass Rates 2023. Available from: https://nabp.pharmacy/wp-content/uploads/NAPLEX-Pass-Rates-2023.pdf. Accessed July 28, 2024.
  4. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. MPJE Competency Statements. Available at: https://nabp.pharmacy/programs/examinations/mpje/competency-statements/. Accessed July 23, 2024.
  5. U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. Pharmacist’s Manual. Available at: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/GDP/(DEA-DC-046R1)(EO-DEA154R1)_Pharmacist%27s_Manual_DEA.pdf. Accessed July 23, 2024.

How to Pass Your MPJE Exam the First Time Read More »

NAPLEX or MPJE… Which one first?

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One of the most substantial fears that PharmD graduates face upon completion of pharmacy school surrounds the next step in their professional development: becoming a licensed pharmacist. With the exception of some states that require an additional practical exam, such as Georgia and New York, the main two exams that are required from state to state to become licensed to practice are the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE). The NAPLEX and MPJE are both pass or fail examinations. While the MPJE exam results do not provide a performance report, the NAPLEX does provide a performance report to reflect on the areas you did well and the areas you might need to review once more. This is an example of the NAPLEX performance report:

Source: NABP Website

While some have no preference in the order of when to take their exams, others may be challenged with a relatively common dilemma – do I take the NAPLEX or MPJE first? This article will not necessarily state why you should pick one option over the other, but instead uncover things to consider when scheduling your exams.

Reason to take the NAPLEX first:Coming out of school, you may feel like a lot of what you have learned in class and during rotations is still relatively fresh in your mind. Before you switch gears to a completely different area of focus, you may want to tackle something you are more familiar with first. Also, depending on the school you have graduated from, you may have been required to register for RxPrep and take on assignments throughout your fourth-year rotations, ultimately keeping your mind engaged on all clinical modules. Another reason is perhaps you have covered your law course during your third year instead of your fourth year of pharmacy school. Lastly, if your school does not provide any law prep course or support before you graduate. 
Reason to take the MPJE first:Based on the plethora of disheartening comments surrounding the exam, many previous exam takers can agree that the MPJE is a more difficult exam. Individuals who take the NAPLEX first may often feel burnt out after extensive preparation, thus leaving those who still have to take the MPJE mentally exhausted and devoid of motivation. Remember, pharmacy law is naturally perceived as a drier topic to begin with. Another reason is if your pharmacy school had you take a law course during your fourth year instead of your third year, making the content fresher in your mind. Lastly, if your pharmacy school does provide a law prep course or support before you graduate. 

Our advice?

Ultimately, what you decide is based on where you stand with respect to how comfortable you are with the content of each exam and even the urgency of addressing your financial situation. Also, depending on the institution, you may be a part of a residency or fellowship program that grants you an additional couple of months of flexibility to become licensed. While it is fine to space out both exams to ensure adequate preparation, you should still be conscious of not distancing your exams too far apart. Remember, the goal is to promptly eliminate the last barrier that stands in the way of you becoming a licensed pharmacist and begin the take down of those horrifying student loans. This was why RxPharmacist was created in supporting pharmacy graduates and pharmacists to overcome the barrier of their licensure exams. Even more so, we also provide state-specific MPJE guides which is a unique offering among other known test-prep companies such as RxPrep which only offers NAPLEX and very minimal (and general) federal MPJE reviews. For more in-depth analysis and advice on each exam, please be sure to check out our previous blogs that provide excellent tips, things to consider, and resources to use to help you overcome your upcoming board exams:

Good luck!

Dagmara Zajac

RxPharmacist Team

References:

  1. NAPLEX Prep Opportunities & Study Guide: NAPLEX exam. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. https://nabp.pharmacy/programs/examinations/naplex/. Published November 11, 2022. Accessed November 10, 2022.
  2. Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE): NABP. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. https://nabp.pharmacy/programs/examinations/mpje/. Published October 6, 2022. Accessed November 10, 2022.

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Perfecting My Medical Writing Skills and Experience with RxPharmacist

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I recently completed an internship with RxPharmacist, having learned about the opportunity through my school newsletter. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the enriching experience and to provide feedback on the valuable insights gained during my time as an intern.

Prior to joining RxPharmacist, I had completed a rotation with a pharmaceutical company in the scientific communications division. It was during this period that I discovered my keen interest in medical writing. Eager to further develop my skills, I applied for the RxPharmacist internship and was thrilled to be accepted.

Throughout my internship, I had the opportunity to work on editing MPJE guides for three different states. Each guide presented a unique set of challenges as they were formatted differently, and the process of understanding and consolidating pharmacy laws from diverse sources proved to be a valuable learning experience. I discovered that not all states provide straightforward access to their laws online.  Some require additional effort to compile and update the necessary information for the guides. RxPharmacist MPJE guides combine information from all sources in one document for the purpose of assisting users with simplifying their studying process and ensuring they pass their exams from the first try.

One of the most commendable aspects of the internship was the continuous and detailed feedback I received from my preceptor. Their insights were instrumental in enhancing my medical writing and punctuation skills. I appreciated the accessibility of the preceptors, who could be contacted at any time via Slack and were prompt in responding to queries. The one-on-one sessions offered allowed me to clarify instructions and address any confusion. Interns are fully supported by their preceptors who are always available to answer any questions or confusions.

The feedback received after each project draft proved invaluable, helping me identify and rectify errors I was previously unaware of. I learned various techniques on Microsoft Word to maintain consistent formatting and avoid common pitfalls. I honed my paraphrasing skills while simplifying complex pharmacy laws by properly referencing laws and ensuring accurate representation.

Additionally, the internship provided an opportunity to enhance my question creation skills, a task assigned to generate a specific number of questions for each guide. This not only improved my understanding of the content but also contributed to my preparation for the MPJE exam. Looking at the laws of different states through this internship also raised my awareness on similarities and differences of pharmacist scope of practice in different states which can restrict a pharmacist in one state while permit in another.

Other than the projects, this internship also offers free ‘How to find a job’ live sessions during the fall (as well as for summer internship programs) where students can learn proper resume or CV presentation, how to answer interview questions, how to negotiate salaries, and much more. The instructor is available in the session to ask questions, discuss concerns, and practice elevator pitch and interview questions. This program has helped several students find jobs upon graduation and I am excited to use the skills I learned to find a job once I graduate.

Despite the challenges of managing the internship alongside school commitments during the fall semester, I appreciate the understanding and flexibility demonstrated by my preceptor when extensions were necessary. I wholeheartedly recommend this internship to anyone seeking to improve their medical writing skills.

Thank you once again for the invaluable experience, and I look forward to applying the skills acquired during my time at RxPharmacist in my future endeavors.

-Amira H., Howard University

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2021 Intern Testimonial

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Flexibility towards a vision, mission, and goal

My initial plan post-graduation was to find a retail pharmacy position as soon as possible. At the time, I was not working as an intern and was relying heavily on being able to take my board exams early. An opportunity to work at RxPharmacist was presented to me around the same time and I took the chance to develop skills that I otherwise would not be able to gain.

I worked on the first RxPharmacist Retail OTC guide with my preceptor. I was able to gain skills in content creation, medical writing, and professional development. The entire team was very supportive of each other, and communication was excellent.

At first, the project was daunting, given the scope of the guide. In addition, I also was studying for the NAPLEX and MPJE. However, with encouragement and support from the RxPharmacist team, I was able to overcome any obstacles. I am very appreciative of the independence that interns are given as I was able to choose my work schedule and even deadlines. 

Overall, the RxPharmacist Internship has made me more confident in my own abilities. This internship has not only allowed me to improve myself, but also to give back to the profession.

-Edward S., 2021 RxPharmacist Graduate Summer Intern

University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2021

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Supporting our pharmacy profession: Team Member Testimonial

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My journey with RxPharmacist started with a post on my pharmacy class’s Facebook page asking for help to contribute to their Florida MPJE guide. I reached out and volunteered to help. This experience was very valuable as it helped me develop my writing skills, work within a team with other pharmacy graduates around the State of Florida, and helped me study for the MPJE exam. After I found out I passed the MPJE, there was no way I could take another one.

Little did I know, a year later, I would be moving to Washington, DC. I was researching online for study materials for the DC MPJE, but had little luck in finding materials. That is when I came across RxPharmacist again. I reached out asking if there were any DC MPJE study materials available. Fortunately, I was presented with an opportunity to author a DC MPJE Guide with RxPharmacist. I was already working as a pharmacist and my job was very demanding; however, the RxPharmacist team was very flexible with allowing me to write the guide at my own pace within the time frame requested. This opportunity closely aligned with my goals to help the pharmacy profession and improve my writing skills. Thank you RxPharmacist for another great experience! Best of luck to all current and future pharmacists on your MPJE exams!

Chrissy T., Pharm.D., 2020 Medical Writing Associate

University of Florida College of Pharmacy, Class of 2019

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What is the MPJE and What do I Need to Know?

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WHAT IS THE MPJE?

The Multi-Prudence Jurisdiction Examination (MPJE) is a 120-question computer-based exam that uses adaptive testing response questions. For example, if you keep getting questions wrong then the computer will provide you questions that are statistically deemed “easier.”  It’s important to note that of the 120 questions on this exam, only 100 are used to calculate your final score. The remaining 20 questions are pretest questions that will not count into your MPJE score, but you won’t be able to tell which ones are pretest questions and which ones are not. The total testing time is two hours with NO breaks during the testing session so it’s important to take note of time. 

WHAT IS THE PASSING SCORE?

The passing scaled score is 75 with the minimum score being zero and maximum 100. The exam is divided into three major sections:

  • Pharmacy Practice- 83%
  • Licensure, registration, certification, operational requirements- 15%
  • General Regulatory Processes- 2%

WHAT HAPPENS IF I FAIL?

If you don’t pass the first time you still have 4 more attempts to pass you’re MPJE exam. A maximum of 5 tries per state to pass the MPJE is allowed. Hopefully you won’t fail the first time you take your MPJE but if you do, you need to wait 30 days per state until you can sit for the exam again to re-take. For the NAPLEX, it is a period of 45 days to wait before you can retake the exam again. 

Note that if your eligibility to sit for the NAPLEX or MPJE is going to expire within 10 business days then you won’t be able to pay and sit for the exam so make sure as soon as you get your authorization to test (ATT) letter that you book your appointment as soon as possible. 

IMPORTANT 2019-2020 UPDATES TO MPJE AND NAPLEX

The re-sit fees for the NAPLEX and MPJE are bumped up to $475 and $150 (YIKES that hurts!). If you miss your exam due to an emergency (whatever that means), then you can ask if you can re-sit to take your exam for a reduced fee of $170 for the NAPLEX or $100 for the MPJE. 

SOME MAJOR POINTS TO REMEMBER:

  • All questions are answered in order so there’s no going back
  • Lots of situational questions
  • Online registration costs $250.00 per examination
  • You will need to bring two forms of ID at Pearson Vue
  • At least one picture ID with signature (i.e. Driver’s License)
  • Other can be credit card with signature
  • 120 questions, 100 count towards your score
  • MUST complete 107 questions for examination to be scored
  • If you fail, you must wait 30 days to retake for the MPJE and 45 days for the NAPLEX
  • The MPJE doesn’t distinguish between state and federal laws, but answer each question based on state law
  • Any misconduct or inkling of misconduct is grounds for failure
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes early
  • Ensure to read EVERY SINGLE WORD!
    • They will try to trick you so make sure to answer the question they ask, and lookout for unusual words as triggers. 

BREAKDOWN OF FEES:

Total if you passed the first time: 

$250 MPJE ($150 + $100 application fee)

$575 NAPLEX ($475 + $100 application fee)

$825

Total if you failed but passed the second time: 

$500 MPJE ($250 x 2)

$1,150 NAPLEX ($575 x 2)

$1,650

As you can see, it really adds up if you don’t pass the first time so we hope that you pass the first time! This does not include the stress and wasted time either since you can’t start working until your licensed. We highly recommend reviewing the https://nabp.pharmacy/programs/mpje/ site and reading over the NAPLEX/MPJE registration bulletin. They provide a more specific overview of the exam, scheduling requirements, and a list of core competencies for you to understand. Don’t spend too much time on the core competencies, but more on understanding the laws, as there are many situational type questions.

About RxPharmacist 

RxPharmacist got created out of a calling to help a fellow classmate who failed his board exams, lost his job offer, and almost went homeless in not being able to gain employment as he had to wait 45 days before being able to sit and retake his board exams. Frustrated over the high cost of expensive study guides that were outdated, heavy in content, and weren’t focused on getting to the information needed to pass was the call to action that RxPharmacist has answered.

We are a group of volunteer pharmacists, paid pharmacy students, and mentors to our pharmacy profession driven by fellow pharmacy graduates and pharmacists just like you. We want to make a positive difference and disrupt the pharmacy test-prep industry but we need your help.

If you think you can help join our cause, feel free to shoot us over an email on how we can improve our services and products to help you. Even though this starter guide is basic in nature, we hope it can get you pointed in the right direction so you can start your journey in passing your MPJE board exams. Whether you are a fresh pharmacy graduate or a seasoned pharmacist getting licensed in another state, we’re excited you started your journey with us although it will be short-lived as we hope you will pass the first time! 

We all understand board studying for gaining your pharmacist licensure is not easy. We don’t want the stress and headaches of potential failing you’re MPJE get in the way of the career you want.

What is the MPJE and What do I Need to Know? Read More »

More than just a study guide…

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When I graduated from pharmacy school just a few short months ago, I found myself in the same predicament that most other students find themselves in … what do I do now? I have my degree, I have a year’s worth of rotation experience, but I still have to pass my licensing exams and find a job. I applied to RxPharmacist and was given the opportunity to write the Maryland MPJE Guide. 

When I applied to be an intern for RxPharmacist, I knew that I would be writing a study guide, but I had no idea that I would receive so many other benefits. RxPharmacist thrives off of a spirit of mentorship and connection. I was able to get personalized career advice, resume and CV reviews, and the contact information of other pharmacists who could help me to achieve my goals. The individuals who I have had the pleasure to connect with during my internship truly do give back to the pharmacy profession by assisting new graduates in any way that they can. This experience has really inspired me to give back, as well, since I know what it’s like to be a struggling new pharmacy graduate with many questions, but not so many answers. 

Now that I am at the end of my official internship, I can say with confidence that this experience has provided me with invaluable skills for my future in pharmacy. I am proud to have produced an MPJE guide to help other Maryland graduates like myself to pass their exams on the first try. Furthermore, it has been amazing to have one-on-one career guidance, constructive feedback, and pharmacy advice in a safe space with a trusted pharmacist. I am extremely grateful to have been selected to continue RxPharmacist’s mission of giving back to the profession.

Best of luck to all the new pharmacy graduates!

Lauren A., Pharm.D., 2019 RxPharmacist Intern

Shenandoah University, Class of 2019

More than just a study guide… Read More »

Intern Spotlight: The Value of a Good Internship

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The idea of an internship is awesome. You basically get a trial run of anything you might want to try. You get the opportunity to meet people in a field and learn all about an industry that interests you.

But it does come at a cost- your time.

Your time is the most valuable thing you own; especially when you only have a few years of school and free summers before you need to make a career choice. Therefore, when picking an internship, it’s important to look for someone who values your time for what it’s worth; which is a hard concept to define. However, after working for a start-up like RxPharmacist, I began to see specifically what it looks like. See, a start-up, or any other small business, understands the  value in time because the truth is, time is more than just money for them. The time it takes to learn a new program determines whether or not it is worth the money. The time it takes to finish creating a product determines how many people you are willing to hire. A start-up constantly needs to prioritize things to ensure the best use of their time. Which is kind of like what a student does. You have unique qualities and traits that you want to market to everyone else, and you are paving a unique pathway to your future career. And what makes you unique? Your experiences; or in other words, how you spend your time.

With RxPharmacist, I was never stuck working in one area. I had the opportunity to learn and gain experience with website development, search engine optimization, competitive pricing, employee recruitment, and advertising. I worked directly with the CEO of a company and got a front row seat to the mechanics of how a business is managed and built from the ground up. I saw how a business plan was written and entered the vast world of business competitions- which are quite exciting. I learned the value of networking and building connections. I learned that the field of pharmacy is so much bigger than I had ever imagined and that your opportunities are only limited by your ambitions.

To top it off, I was able to work from home and created my own schedule so that I never had to waste any time with commuting! 

This internship has opened my eyes to so many opportunities; however, above all, I value this experience in particular because I learned what it means for someone to value my time. I was constantly encouraged with my school work and with applying for future internships. I was asked what interested me and what I wanted to learn about. I was given advice about the field of pharmacy and about working in general. Just recently, I mentioned I was considering getting a second degree and was immediately connected with someone who is currently working on that degree. The mentorship that I gained from this experience was invaluable, and I would encourage any student to seek out an opportunity such as this one. I can assure you, it is well worth your time.

Sincerely,

Madeline Wright

University of Florida College of Pharmacy

PharmD Candidate c/o 2022

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How does RxPharmacist Create Study Guides?

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You are probably wondering how does RxPharmacist create our study guides? It’s not easy. We dedicate at least 6-9 months to create just 1 of our study guides! This time period is spent on content creation, editing, calling up Board of Pharmacies for each respective state, and ensuring a high quality and up-to-date guide.

Each guide is created by a pharmacy graduate who recently passed their MPJE licensure exam the first time for that respective state or a seasoned pharmacist who recently passed their MPJE licensure exam the first time due to moving and finding another job in the other respective state. We dedicate more time with our pharmacy graduates as they are paired up with pharmacist preceptors that review their work week by week, with a careful eye on attention to detail, accuracy, and outside of the box questions that may show up on the exam. For the pharmacist, we also pair them with a fellow pharmacist that serves as a second pair of eyes in reviewing the content creation for accuracy and attention to details.

After this process, we also get our guides vetted through mostly pharmacy students to serve as our Beta test group to provide feedback and further assist us in creating our study guides.

The reason we focus on pharmacy graduates and pharmacists is to give back in supporting our pharmacy profession. The pharmacy graduates get paid to study which they need to do anyways to pass their board exam and may need financial help during their transition from pharmacy graduate to pharmacist. We support all of our pharmacy graduates with helping them access our network, reviewing their resume, testing their interviewing skills, and more to ensure they are successful in the workforce.

For the seasoned pharmacist, the same applies. They may have a life situation and need to move to another state and find another pharmacist job in that state. We support our pharmacists by giving them the opportunity to write a study guide to support them financially while connecting them with others in our network so they make an easy transition as they move to their new state of practice. We also provide resume, interviewing skills, and connections so they may also be successful in their careers.

As you can imagine the process is tedious and is meant to be symbiotic with always creating a win-win-win. The pharmacy graduate/pharmacist wins in financial support and job assistance, RxPharmacist wins in getting a new study guide to market to further support more students and pharmacists, and you win in getting a high quality guide. The end product is an affordable, high-quality, and up-to-date pharmacy test-prep study guides so you can pass the first time!

How does RxPharmacist Create Study Guides? Read More »