Contents
A pharmacy technician is a health care professional who provides support to licensed pharmacists in pharmaceutical preparation and distribution. The following blog will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to become a pharmacy technician in 10 steps.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Think you have what it takes to become a pharmacy technician? pharmacy technicians play an important role in the healthcare industry, assisting pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications. They typically work in hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare settings.
If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, pharmacy technicians must be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure. They must also be good at math and have strong interpersonal skills.
If you think you have what it takes to become a pharmacy technician, follow these 10 steps:
1. Research your state’s requirements.
Every state has different requirements for becoming a pharmacy technician. Some states require certification, while others do not. It’s important to research your state’s requirements before taking any further steps.
2. Complete a formal education program.
Most states require pharmacy technicians to complete a formal education program before taking the certification exam. You can find programs at community colleges, technical schools, and online universities.
3. Get certified.
Once you have completed a formal education program, you will need to get certified by passing an exam administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA).
4. Find a job.
Once you are certified, you can start searching for jobs as a pharmacy technician. There are many job postings online as well as in newspapers and on Indeed).
5 Complete on-the-job training .
Most employers will provide on-the-job training for new pharmacy technicians . This training will teach you how to do your job safely and efficiently .
6 . Stay up-to-date on new medications and procedures .
As a pharmacy technician , it is your responsibility to stay up-to-date on new medications and procedures . You can do this by reading industry publications or attending conferences and seminars .
7 . Maintain your certification .
In order to maintain your certification , you will need to take continuing education courses and fulfill all other requirements set forth by the PTCB or NHA .
8 . Participate in professional organizations .
There are many professional organizations for pharmacy technicians , such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the National American Pharmacist Association (NAPT) Joining one of these organizations can help you stay current on industry news and trends , as well as network with other professionals in your field . 9 Consider advancing your career .
After working as a pharmacy technician for some time , you may want to consider advancing your career by becoming a certified pharmacist assistant (CPA) or registered pharmacist technician (RPhT) These positions offer greater responsibility and pay than entry – level positions but require more experience and education 10 Pursue continuing education opportunities .
Even if you don’t want to advance your career , it’s important to pursue continuing education opportunities so that you can stay current on new medications , procedures , and technologies used in the field of pharmacy
What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
A pharmacy technician is a professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist in a retail or hospital setting. He or she is responsible for filling prescriptions, maintaining records, and ensuring that the pharmacy runs smoothly.
The job of a pharmacy technician is fast-paced and demands accuracy and attention to detail. In addition to these qualities, successful pharmacy technicians must also be able to multitask and work well under pressure.
If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, here are 10 steps you can take to get started:
1. Research the field of pharmacy technician.
2. Complete a high school diploma or equivalent.
3. Consider completing a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology.
4. Get certified as a pharmacy technician (Graduate from an ACPE Accredited Pharmacy Technician Program).
5. Find employment as a pharmacy technician.
6. Complete on-the-job training .
7. Maintain certification by completing continuing education courses .
8. Consider pursuing additional certification in a specialized area of pharmacy technology .
9. Advance your career by taking on additional responsibilities or pursuing higher-level positions .
10. Stay up to date on changes in the field of pharmacy technology
Steps to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians are in high demand! As a pharmacy technician, you will be responsible for supporting pharmacists in measuring, mixing, counting, and distributing drugs. You will also be responsible for answering phones, maintaining records, and stocking shelves. If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, follow these 10 steps.
Complete a pharmacy technician training program
The first step to becoming a certified pharmacy technician is to complete a training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, technical schools, and online career training schools. Programs typically take one or two semesters to complete and include both classroom and clinical instruction.
During your training, you will learn about topics such as pharmacy law and ethics, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, dosage calculation, pharmacy operations, and pharmacology. You will also gain hands-on experience working in a pharmacy under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
Once you have completed a pharmacy technician training program, you will need to pass the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE) to earn your certification.
Obtain a pharmacy technician certification
One of the primary requirements to become a pharmacy technician is certification. Although not all states have this requirement, employers prefer to hire candidates who are certified and may require certification for certain positions. Certification demonstrates your commitment to the profession and shows that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job.
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers a national certification exam that is recognized by most states. To be eligible to take the PTCB exam, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program, and pass a criminal background check. Once you pass the PTCB exam, you will need to renew your certification every two years and complete 20 hours of continuing education every year.
Some states have their own certification exams, so it’s important to check with your state board of pharmacy to see what the requirements are. Even if your state doesn’t require certification, becoming certified will give you a competitive edge when seeking employment.
Find a job as a pharmacy technician
Finding a job as a pharmacy technician is the first step on your path to becoming a pharmacy technician. Start by searching for pharmacy technician jobs on websites like Indeed.com or Monster.com. You can also check with your local pharmacies to see if they are hiring pharmacy technicians. Once you have found a few potential jobs, you will need to submit a resume and cover letter to each employer.
Next, you will need to complete an application for each position you are interested in. Be sure to fill out the application completely and accurately. Once you have submitted your applications, you may be asked to come in for an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your experience and why you would be a good fit for the position.
If you are offered a position as a pharmacy technician, congratulations! The next step is to complete any required training. Many employers will provide on-the-job training, but some may require that you complete a formal training program before beginning work. Once you have completed any required training, you will be ready to start your new job and begin your career as a pharmacy technician!
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to start a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. By following the 10 steps outlined in this article, you can be on your way to becoming a pharmacy technician in no time.
