Women in pharmacy

Women have served widely as pharmacists. However, as with women in many jobs, women in pharmacy have been restricted. For example, only in 1964 was the American Civil Rights Act of 1964 () enacted, which outlawed refusing to hire women because of their sex including though not limited to in the profession of pharmacist. Even today, not all countries ensure equal employment opportunities for women.
Women in medieval pharmacy.
Apothecary is one term for a medical professional who formulates and dispenses "materia medica" to physicians, surgeons, and patients; the modern pharmacist has taken over this role. Throughout medieval times, apothecaries were not trained in universities as physicians were. More often, they were trained through guilds, and apprenticeship. Apothecary businesses were typically family-run, and wives or other women of the family worked alongside their husbands in the shops, learning the trade themselves. Women were still not allowed to train and be educated in universities so this allowed them a chance to be trained in medical knowledge and healing. Previously, women had some influence in other women's healthcare, such as serving as midwives and other feminine care in a setting that was not considered appropriate for males. Though physicians gave medical advice, they did not make medicine, so they typically sent their patients to particular independent apothecaries, who did also provide some medical advice in particular remedies and healing.
Women in modern pharmacy.
The National Association of Women Pharmacists was founded in London on 15 June 1905, following discussions between Margaret Elizabeth Buchanan and Isabella Skinner Clarke. Early meetings were held at Clarke's home. Membership was restricted to those who had passed the major or minor examination and 50 women joined immediately. By 1912 Buchanan claimed that practically all women practicing pharmacy were members.