Pharmacists, also known as
chemists (
Commonwealth English) or
druggists (North American and, archaically, Commonwealth English), are
healthcare professionals who practice in
pharmacy, the field of health sciences focusing on safe and effective
medication use. A pharmacist is a member of the
health care team directly involved with
patient care. Pharmacists undergo university-level education to understand the biochemical mechanisms and actions of drugs, drug uses, therapeutic roles, side effects, potential
drug interactions, and monitoring parameters. This is mated to anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. Pharmacists interpret and communicate this specialized knowledge to patients,
physicians, and other health care providers.