Practicing pharmacy in Bermuda is very interesting, challenging and rewarding. As well as pharmacy technicians, there are approximately 60 registered pharmacists currently on the island with increasing demand. As well as Bermudian pharmacists the countries of origin of the islands' pharmacists are many and varied including countries like the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Jamaica, South Africa, Ireland and Poland to name but a few. This diversity brings about a vast amount of experience and knowledge. The islands physicians are also from many different countries and in addition Bermuda imports most of its drugs from several different countries around the world so our Pharmacists are exposed to an array of different nomenclatures and brand names which requires them to develop a specialised knowledge in medications from all over the world.
The island has 15 registered retail pharmacies many of which are independently owned as well as others being part of a chain and two hospital pharmacies, one a general medical hospital and the other a psychiatric hospital. Other pharmacy jobs in Bermuda include a government pharmacist and positions at the local and international pharmacy wholesalers.
How do I become a Pharmacist in Bermuda? This is a question we are often asked.
There are three ways, check out all the vacancies for Pharmacy jobs here on our website, research the companies in Bermuda that employ Pharmacists and approach them directly for information on current vacancies or the local newspaper called the Royal Gazette is another good source as all available vacancies have to be advertised through that medium.
Once you are successful in obtaining a position the company will apply for a Work Permit on your behalf. The term of the permit is usually two years. This entitles you to land in Bermuda and take up the position and live here for that period of time.
You must undertake a short Pre-registration period, about 4 weeks, and in approximately the 3rd week of this 1 month supervised internship, you sit a three hour exam which on passing allows you to be registered as a Pharmacist to practice in Bermuda. The exam will test your knowledge of pharmacology, commonly encountered calculations, sigs, local laws and idiosyncrasies of local practice. You will learn the latter two during the 3 weeks before the exam.
Best of luck on your journey towards becoming a Pharmacist in Bermuda!