Staff Pharmacist (Permanent, Full-time)
Location: Edmonton, AB
Overview:
Reporting to the Director, Pharmacy Services, based out of ARTA's head office in Edmonton, the Staff Pharmacist will serve as an expert resource providing direct support to ARTA members and the Member Services team. This includes answering complex questions regarding ARTA's prescription plan pricing, policies, and programs. The pharmacist will collaborate with pharmacy staff in daily dispensary operations and the delivery of strategic member health programs and services, ensuring the highest quality of service to ARTA members.
Life at ARTA
The Alberta Retired Teachers' Association (ARTA) is a dynamic organization comprising over 32,000 retired educators and like-minded professionals, supported by an engaged team of staff. Created by teachers, ARTA is an Alberta-based not-for-profit dedicated to promoting a healthy, active, engaged, and vibrant retirement lifestyle for its members. Our culture encourages members and employees alike to enhance their quality of life. As a Canadian Nonprofit Employer of Choice, office perks include a staff wellness program, generous time off, and professional development opportunities, fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive.
As a rapidly growing organization, ARTA emphasizes individual contributions and teamwork, anchored by core values. If you are passionate about making a difference, a creative team player, and enjoy building relationships, we invite you to join our exciting organization.
What You Will Do
- Member Services
- Provide expert advice and guidance on managing pharmacy-related benefits via in person, phone, or secure communication channels.
- Assist with complex transitions to the ARTARx plan.
- Respond to member inquiries and determine coverage eligibility for prescription and over-the-counter drugs, diabetes supplies, and intra-joint injectables.
- Advise on MAC (Maximum Allowable Cost) and LCA (Least Cost Alternative) pricing policies.
- Collaborate with healthcare providers and patients to review special authorization and step therapy prescription coverage requests.
- Coordinate with claims adjudication to follow up on coverage issues.
- Support MAC and LCA exception requests.
- Assist members with coordination of benefits involving Government Seniors Benefit Plans for high-cost medications and supplies.
- Support escalated prescription coverage issues, either directly or through ARTA member services staff.
- Provide assistance to the Director, Pharmacy Services.
- Pharmacy
- Lead in a pharmacy environment supporting professional practice within Alberta legislation.
- Work with healthcare providers to review prescriptions for clinical appropriateness and safety.
- Contribute to achieving health goals and business growth through exceptional clinical service.
- Supervise pharmacy team members in dispensing operations in accordance with ACP standards and provincial law.
- Lead health promotion programs, such as health education seminars, vaccination programs, and medication management services.
- Ensure customer privacy during medication distribution and clinical services.
- Manage prescription and OTC inventory.
- Support the future of pharmacy education by serving as a practicum site for the University of Alberta Pharmacy program.
- Perform other related duties as required.
What You Will Have
- Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy or PharmD, with authorization for injections and Additional Prescribing Authority.
- Registration in good standing with the Alberta College of Pharmacy (ACP).
- Previous experience in community or hospital pharmacy; experience with central fill or mail-order pharmacy is an asset.
- Strong interpersonal, decision-making, and leadership skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
- Exceptional customer service skills and professionalism.
- Superior organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in KROLL Pharmacy Management system is an asset.
- Experience with vial or pouch filling automation is an asset.
- As the population served includes vulnerable individuals, employees are encouraged to stay current with public health recommendations, including vaccinations such as flu and COVID-19. Vaccination is not a mandatory condition of employment.