Get Registered with NHRA: A Step By Step Guide For Pharmacists

Madiha Zufa
Nov 13, 2024 3 min read
Get Registered with NHRA Guide For Pharmacists

Key Takeaways:

  • Bahrain is a prime destination for pharmacists as it offers tax-free salaries, a vibrant lifestyle, and a promising career growth.
  • The BPLE/NHRA is a mandatory exam for foreign trained pharmacists wishing to practice in Bahrain. This exam is managed by the NHRA.
  • Eligibility for the BPLE includes specific educational qualifications, work experience, and registration in the pharmacist’s home country.
  • The exam comprises of 150 MCQ-type questions. The minimum passing score is 60%, with a maximum of 4 attempts.
  • Comprehensive preparation, including study strategies and mock tests, is crucial for success.
  • After passing the BPLE, pharmacists must get registered with the NHRA. After which they can explore opportunities in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and the pharmaceutical industry.

Bahrain is a tiny nation with a tressure of opportunities to be unlocked. Bahrain is investing heavily to improve it’s healthcare system. This shift of focus has created a great demand for the workforce in the healthcare sector. As a pharmacist, one can consider Bahrain as a top option to advance their careers. Bahrain offers competitive salary packages, and tax-free environment and an attractive landscape for career growth. As the demand for qualified pharmacists continues to rise, understanding the process of becoming licensed is crucial for anyone looking to advance their career in this promising region.

What is the NHRA Exam and Why is it Important

The Bahrain Pharmacists Licensure Exam (BPLE) also known as NHRA exam, governed by the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA), is a mandatory examination for foreign pharmacists wishing to practice in Bahrain. This exam evaluates the knowledge and skills of pharmacists to ensure they meet the healthcare standards required in the Kingdom.

Passing the NHRA exam is essential because it is the first step towards obtaining a professional license, which is necessary for legal practice as a pharmacist in Bahrain. The exam covers a wide range of topics relevant to pharmacy practice, and successfully passing it demonstrates your competency and readiness to contribute to Bahrain’s healthcare system.

Eligibility Requirements for the NHRA Exam

Before registering for the NHRA exam, it’s essential to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need:

Educational Qualifications:

A degree in pharmacy (B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or Pharm.D.) from an accredited institution.

Work Experience:

Pharm.D. graduates: At least 2 years of experience in retail or industrial pharmacy.

B.Pharm graduates: A minimum of 5 years of experience in similar settings.

Registration in Home Country:

Candidates must be registered pharmacists in their home countries, demonstrating their qualifications and experience.

Get Registered For the NHRA Exam

The registration process for the NHRA exam involves several steps, which we’ll outline here:

Step 1: Online Application via the MEHAN Portal

  • First, visit the MEHAN portal and create an account.
  • Next, you need to fill out the online application form and upload the necessary documents, including your educational qualifications, experience certificates, and proof of registration as a pharmacist in your home country.
  • Pay the required application fee to complete your submission.

Step 2: Document Verification

  • After you successfully submit your application, the NHRA will now evaluates the authenticity of your documents. This  involves Primary Source Verification (PSV), which confirms if your qualifications are valid.

Step 3: Scheduling Your Exam

  • Once your documents are verified, you can schedule your exam date through the MEHAN portal. It’s advisable to choose a date that allows you ample time to prepare.

Step 4: Taking the NHRA Exam

  • On exam day, it is good to arrive early at the test centre and be prepared to perform your best. The BPLE consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 2.5 hours. A minimum passing score of 60% is required to succeed.

Step 5: Registration with NHRA Post-Exam

After you pass the NHRA exam, you will need to apply for a professional registration license with the NHRA. This license is essential for practising legally as a pharmacist in Bahrain.

Job Opportunities for Pharmacists in Bahrain

Once licensed, pharmacists in Bahrain can explore numerous job opportunities in various sectors, such as hospitals, retail, and industry.

Hospitals: A pharmacist can work in clinical settings. He/ she will be providing patient care in collaboration with other healthcare teams at the hospital ensuring the right treatment is being delivered.

Retail Pharmacy: Manage pharmacy operations and dispense medications while ensuring patient safety.

Pharmaceutical Industry: One can take up research, do quality control, and regulate manufacture of drugs on a large scale. The pharmacists can contribute to the development of new drugs and therapies.

To Find Job Openings, Consider the Following Strategies:

Online Job Portals: Websites like LinkedIn, GulfTalent, Naukrigulf, Indeed, and local job boards regularly post pharmacy-related vacancies.

Recruitment Agencies: Connecting with recruitment agencies that specialise in healthcare can provide tailored job opportunities.

Networking: Engage with local pharmacy associations and attend healthcare events to meet potential employers.

Final Thoughts

Being a licensed pharmacist in Bahrain opens doors to a vibrant and rewarding career in the Gulf. Though the process sounds daunting, from eligibility criteria to passing the NHRA exam, every step is manageable with proper preparation and the right support.

If you’re ready to embark on this exciting path, reach out to us at Academically Global for expert guidance on exam preparation and every step to becoming a licensed pharmacist in Bahrain. Our comprehensive courses and personalised assistance will help make your transition to practising pharmacy in Bahrain smooth and successful.

Your dream career in Bahrain is just a step away! Book a free one-on-one counselling session today!

FAQs

Q. What qualifications are needed for Indian pharmacists to work in Bahrain?

Ans. Indian pharmacists must hold a B.Pharm, M.Pharm, or Pharm.D. along with relevant work experience to be eligible for the NHRA exam.

Q. How much can pharmacists earn in Bahrain?

Ans. Salaries for pharmacists in Bahrain start at around 1.5 lakhs INR and increase with experience.

Q. Are there job opportunities for Indian pharmacists in Bahrain?

Ans. Yes, many job opportunities are available in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and the pharmaceutical industry.

TAGS
Pharmacist BPLE Exam Bahrain
Madiha Zufa
Madiha Zufa
about the author

Madiha Zufa is a passionate dentist whose journey has led her to the world of medical content writing. With a love for storytelling, she seamlessly weaves her experiences into her writing, exploring the intersections of healthcare, nature, and the human experience. From the heights of the mountains to the depths of the ocean, Madiha finds inspiration in the world around her, blending her interests in reading, travel, and creativity. Whether delving into the latest medical advancements or sharing insights from her own journey, Madiha’s writing reflects her unique perspective and commitment to learning.

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