Pharmacy Technician

If your interest is in health and helping others, you may consider a career as a Pharmacy Technician. Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications to patients and handling the business aspects of the pharmacy. Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and have a keen attention to detail? Do you thrive in a patient care environment?

Educational Background and Training

To become a Pharmacy Technician, you typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and complete an accredited Pharmacy Technician program. These programs may be offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or online. Some states may have additional requirements, such as passing a state board exam.

Licensure or Certification

While not required in all states, it is highly recommended to obtain voluntary certification as a nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). To obtain certification, you must pass a national exam and complete continuing education credits every two years.

Skills

Pharmacy Technicians are required to have strong math skills, a thorough understanding of medical terminology, and the ability to organize and handle medications safely. Detail-oriented, empathetic, and compassionate individuals who work well under pressure are best suited for the position.

Job Description

Pharmacy Technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Preparing and dispensing medications under the direct supervision of a pharmacist
• Accurately processing prescriptions, entering data, and maintaining patient records
• Providing patient counseling and education
• Maintaining the inventory and ordering supplies
• Ensuring compliance with laws and regulations related to the handling of medications

Career Advancement

Pharmacy Technicians can advance their careers by specializing in a particular area of pharmacy practice, such as compounding, sterile production, or medication therapy management. With additional training and experience, they can move into supervisory roles, such as Pharmacy Manager or Lead Pharmacy Technician.

Transferable Skills

The skills you develop as a Pharmacy Technician can be transferred to other healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. These skills may include patient care, customer service, and medical terminology.

Projects

Pharmacy Technicians may be involved in various projects, such as developing and implementing patient education programs, managing medication inventory, and participating in research studies. These projects provide opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.

Personal Growth

By providing direct patient care and handling medications, Pharmacy Technicians have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. This can lead to a deep sense of satisfaction and personal growth.

Personality Traits

Individuals who are well-suited for a career as a Pharmacy Technician typically have the following traits: organization, attention to detail, empathy, compassion, and patience. They are able to work well under pressure and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Self-Guided Projects

To prepare for a career as a Pharmacy Technician, online courses can help you develop a solid foundation in the field. However, they do not typically provide the hands-on experience required to dispense medications. Therefore, it is recommended to seek volunteer or internship opportunities in a pharmacy setting to gain practical knowledge.

Online Courses

Online courses are a flexible and convenient way to learn the basics of Pharmacy Technology. They offer a range of modules, lectures, assignments, and quizzes that cover topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, and pharmacy law. Online labs can provide interactive simulations that allow you to practice preparing and dispensing medications. By completing these courses, you can enhance your knowledge and prepare for the CPhT exam.

Conclusion

While online courses provide valuable knowledge and preparation, they are not sufficient on their own to become a practicing Pharmacy Technician. To work in this field, you need to complete an accredited program, obtain the necessary certification, and gain practical experience through supervised internships or volunteer work.