So you’re thinking about managed care pharmacy? Whether you’re trying to land your first role or just want to crush your next interview, here’s the truth: it’s not just about knowing your drug facts anymore. Managed care pharmacists need a mix of clinical know-how, people skills, and a whole lot of adaptability to succeed.

The good news? You don’t need years of experience to start building these skills. A lot of them you can develop now – and highlight when it’s your time to shine in an interview.

Here are 4 basic skills that can make or break your success in managed care:

1. Project Management

In managed care, you’ll juggle both short- and long-term projects. Success comes from setting clear goals, building timelines, and creating a systematic approach to reach outcomes. Demonstrating that you can prioritize, track progress, and deliver results is a huge plus.

2. Communication

Unlike retail or hospital settings, managed care pharmacists collaborate with a much broader group: project managers, actuaries, data analysts, and more. Each team “speaks” a different language – some clinical, some technical, some financial. Your job is to bridge the gap. Strong communication means explaining clinical concepts in plain terms and clearly outlining expectations, timelines, and deliverables so everyone stays aligned.

3. Data Analysis

Most managed care roles involve working with large datasets – from claims files to prior authorization trends. You need to ensure accuracy, interpret data strategically, and translate it into insights that drive formulary, policy, or financial decisions. The ability to present data in a way that makes sense to non-pharmacist colleagues sets you apart.

4. Note-Taking

Meetings are constant, and cross-functional projects move quickly. Organized note-taking ensures you can reference discussions, follow through on tasks, and make informed decisions. Beyond meetings, managed care requires continuous learning – new drugs, emerging policies, and shifting regulations. Building a personal system to capture and organize key information will keep you ahead.

Final Thoughts

Managed care pharmacists succeed when they can manage projects, communicate across disciplines, analyze data effectively, and stay organized in a rapidly changing environment. Highlighting these skills with specific and concrete examples in interviews will help you stand out.