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What they do

Pharmacists in Florida dispense prescription medications, counsel patients on safe use and possible interactions, administer vaccines, perform medication therapy management, and consult with physicians about appropriate drug therapy. They work in retail and chain pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order operations, compounding pharmacies, and specialty infusion centers across the state. Florida pharmacists may also enter collaborative practice agreements with physicians that expand the medications they can initiate or modify for a specific patient.

Recent Florida legislation has broadened pharmacist authority to test and treat certain non-chronic minor conditions such as influenza, strep throat, and urinary tract infections under defined protocols, and to dispense self-administered hormonal contraceptives. Hospital pharmacists support inpatient care by overseeing drug formularies, sterile compounding, and clinical drug monitoring. Pharmacists are a frequent point of contact for medication questions and a critical safeguard against adverse drug events.

Licensing in Florida

To become a Florida pharmacist, candidates earn a PharmD from an ACPE-accredited program, complete supervised intern hours, and pass the NAPLEX (national exam) and MPJE (Florida-specific jurisprudence exam). Applicants submit fingerprints and a Board application. Renewal is biennial with documented continuing pharmacy education, including required topics. To prescribe certain medications under an extended scope, pharmacists must complete additional Board-approved training and register the qualification. The Florida Board of Pharmacy regulates licensure, practice standards, and discipline.

How to verify or report

Verify a pharmacist's license and any disciplinary history through the Florida MQA license search. To report dispensing errors, misconduct, or unsafe practices, file through the Florida Department of Health complaint form or call 850-488-0796.