The road to Board Certification

As a pharmacist and faculty member my main task is guiding others on their healthcare journeys sprinkled with a little bit of pharmacy practice. I recently had the opportunity to spend three days at a conference, immersing myself in education to prepare for a board certification exam in ambulatory care pharmacy. This experience was not only a step towards achieving a personal goal but also a reminder of the importance of continuous learning and professional development.

If you're unfamiliar, a board certification is a voluntary credential that demonstrates a pharmacist's expertise in a specific area of practice. In my case, pursuing board certification in ambulatory care pharmacy signifies a commitment to delivering high-quality care in outpatient settings like clinics and community pharmacies. To be eligible for the exam, pharmacists must typically practice for a certain number of years , and it varies depending on the certification. For ambulatory care pharmacy, the requirement is usually around 4 years and you have to spend at least 50% of time spent in direct patient care.

I must admit, going after this goal is daunting, I've actually started and stopped multiple times over the years. I'm a perfectionist and have a healthy fear of failure. So it can be scary The board certification exam is rigorous, testing your knowledge on a wide range of topics over about 4 hours. The stakes are high, and the exams are not cheap. It's a big goal, and I've heard stories of pharmacists who didn't pass on their first try. But despite the challenges, I'm determined to push forward and reach this milestone in my career.

During the conference, I had the privilege of meeting three young women who were also preparing for the same exam. We were fast friends sharing our stories. I learned that we all to different paths after pharmacy school, I went directly into practice and they completed residencies in different areas that made them eligible to sit for the exam three years sooner than me. Whether we come from a heavier clinical background, like those with residencies, or have gained experience through other avenues, such as myself, we all bring valuable perspectives to the table.

So why go the extra mile to pursue board certification? For me, it's about personal and professional growth. It's about challenging myself to reach new heights and ensuring that I'm providing the best possible care to my patients. But it's also about contributing to the advancement of our profession. By obtaining additional credentials, pharmacists can elevate the standards of care and demonstrate our value as integral members of the healthcare team.

As I continue on this journey, I know there will be moments of doubt and fear. But I also know that the knowledge and skills I gain along the way will not only benefit me but also those I serve. So, to my fellow pharmacists and current students who are considering pursuing board certification or any other advanced credential, I encourage you to take that leap of faith. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. Together, let's continue to raise the bar for pharmacy practice and make a difference in the lives of our patients.

Keep seeking,

T'Bony