Oncology pharmacist: Laurie van Zyl
"Being a pharmacist in an oncology context allows you to use technical, scientific and medicinal knowledge to help cancer patients," says Laurie van Zyl. In this specialised field, an oncology pharmacist plays a critical role in managing each cancer patient's medication and treatment needs. This involves working in sterile, aseptic settings to create and reconstitute chemotherapy regimens, calculating precise doses and ensuring that medications are manufactured to specific standards.
Van Zyl offers valuable advice to young Namibian pharmacists aspiring to enter this field: "Gain practical experience in oncology pharmacy settings. Oncology is a relatively unknown topic, and the only way to get expertise in this field is through real hands-on experience." This practical approach is vital to mastering the complexities of oncology pharmacy and providing the best possible care to patients.
Van Zyl's decision to pursue a career in oncology pharmacy stems from the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. "I picked this career since it tests and develops many aspects and skills of being a chemist," he explains. While the field frequently deals with death, Van Zyl finds fulfilment in supporting patients through each stage of their therapy. "Travelling a unique journey with each patient and supporting them through each stage of therapy is what makes it so fulfilling."
The work is demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding.
The ability to make a significant impact on the lives of cancer patients, guiding them through their treatment with expertise and compassion, is at the heart of this profession. For those considering this path, Van Zyl's story highlights the importance of practical experience and the profound rewards of working in the field.
Van Zyl offers valuable advice to young Namibian pharmacists aspiring to enter this field: "Gain practical experience in oncology pharmacy settings. Oncology is a relatively unknown topic, and the only way to get expertise in this field is through real hands-on experience." This practical approach is vital to mastering the complexities of oncology pharmacy and providing the best possible care to patients.
Van Zyl's decision to pursue a career in oncology pharmacy stems from the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. "I picked this career since it tests and develops many aspects and skills of being a chemist," he explains. While the field frequently deals with death, Van Zyl finds fulfilment in supporting patients through each stage of their therapy. "Travelling a unique journey with each patient and supporting them through each stage of therapy is what makes it so fulfilling."
The work is demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding.
The ability to make a significant impact on the lives of cancer patients, guiding them through their treatment with expertise and compassion, is at the heart of this profession. For those considering this path, Van Zyl's story highlights the importance of practical experience and the profound rewards of working in the field.
