Verification Pharmacist - Pharmacy Distribution Center - job 4 of 5

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

The Verification Pharmacist - Pharmacy Distribution Center reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

The Verification Pharmacist will assist the manager with overall operations to support Supply Chain and Pharmacy Services. Key responsibilities include supporting pharmaceutical purchasing staff on inventory, drug shortages, formulary, and 340B program, independently planning and executing supply chain/pharmacy procurement project timelines, with minimal oversight, and acting as a resource for pharmaceutical procurement operations within the Supply Chain organization.

Responsibilities:

Operational

• Plans and maintains procedures for packaging, and labeling pharmaceuticals, according to policy and legal requirements, and ensures quality, security, and proper disposal
• Manages processing, distribution, and delivery of medications and pharmacy services
• Provides work direction and guidance for pharmacy technicians in performing technical pharmacy functions, including checking the technician's work to maintain high standards of pharmaceutical care.
• Ensures that stock and supplies necessary for customer care are ordered, stored, and handled in an organized and efficient manner in the absence of the Lead Pharmacist and/or manager
• Strives to improve efficiency and reduce costs in pharmacy area
• Precepts and provides training to pharmacy students and residents

Quality Excellence

• Performs routine audits and/or reviews to evaluate formulary compliance and quantify impact of institutional decisions, guidelines, and initiatives
• Coordinates and/or participates in other identified quality initiatives, based on the needs of the department or organization

• Supports the planning, designing, implementing, evaluating, and maintaining medication use processes for improvement initiatives as it relates to formulary management and optimization of medication use
• Collaborate with pharmacy leadership, IT, and supply chain across NMHC system to support safe, standard, and effective medication usage and practices
• Ensures compliance with laws governing the practice of pharmacy and distribution of drugs

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Will occasionally lift up to 25 lbs. without assistance
• Must be able to stand up majority of the workday
• Must have functional speech, vision, and hearing
• Will be exposed to chemical hazards; therefore, must have the ability to wear protective clothing as needed
• Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job

• Triages and solves procurement related problems demonstrating initiative and sound judgment.
• Provide ongoing training and support to pharmacy procurement staff and participate in interviewing, orientation and development of training programs.
• Partner with various levels of staffing and management for trainings, workgroups, committees, facilitations of meetings and presentations.
• Maintains proficiency and expertise in area(s) of practice through continuous professional development.
• Preforms other duties as assigned.

Required:

• Pharm.D. degree from an accredited institution.
• Licensed as a pharmacist in Illinois.
• 2 to 4 years procurement experience.
• Understanding of financial analysis and quantitative/qualitative assessment data.
• Consulting or group presentation skills.
• Ability to organize workload and set priorities.
• Strong communication skills, negotiating skills a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate change and achieve savings goals.

Preferred:

• Board certified through the Board of Pharmacy Specialists.
• Mail Order operations 
• Pharmacy Distribution 
• Warehouse Management 

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

Benefits

We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.