A pharmacist with an inactive license for more than 5 years must complete which examinations to be relicensed?

To be relicensed after having an inactive license for more than five years, a pharmacist is typically required to demonstrate current competency and knowledge in the field. This is primarily assessed through examinations that cover both general pharmacy practice and state-specific laws and regulations.

The North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) assesses a candidate's knowledge of pharmacy practice, including drug distribution and patient care. Since the pharmacist has been out of practice for an extended period, taking this examination helps ensure that they are up to date with current pharmacy care standards.

Additionally, the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Examination (MPJE) focuses on state-specific laws and regulations related to pharmacy practice. As laws can change significantly over time, particularly with the evolving landscape of healthcare, passing the MPJE ensures that the relicensing pharmacist is knowledgeable about the current legal and regulatory requirements in their state.

Thus, both examinations serve crucial roles in evaluating a pharmacist's readiness to re-enter the profession, ensuring they possess both general and state-specific knowledge necessary for safe and effective practice. Therefore, completing both the NAPLEX and the MPJE is required to adequately assess the competence of a pharmacist returning to practice after an extended absence.