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Want to become a pharmacy tech in Illinois? Here’s everything you need to know, from certification requirements to job outlook
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Introduction
The profession of pharmacy tech is one that is in high demand across the country. In Illinois, as in other states, pharmacy techs work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to fill prescriptions and provide customer service. The role of the pharmacy tech is an important one, and those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field will need to meet certain requirements set forth by the state of Illinois.
In order to become a pharmacy tech in Illinois, individuals must first complete a training program that has been approved by the Illinois Board of Pharmacy. There are a number of such programs available at community colleges, technical schools, and online. Once an individual has completed an approved training program, he or she must then pass a national certification exam administered by either the National Healthcare Association or the pharmacy technician Certification Board.
Once an individual has met these requirements and become certified, he or she will then need to register with the Illinois Board of Pharmacy. This can be done online or by mail. After registration is complete, pharmacy techs must renew their registration every two years and complete at least six hours of continuing education during each renewal period.
With the proper training and certification, individuals can begin their careers as pharmacy techs in Illinois and start making a positive impact in their communities.
Certification
The first step to becoming a pharmacy technician is to obtain your high school diploma or equivalent. Once you have completed your high school education, you will need to attend an accredited pharmacy technician program. There are many accredited pharmacy technician programs available in Illinois.
National Certification
National Certification is NOT required but recommended in Illinois. National Certification through either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can increase your employment opportunities and may be required by some employers. You must have a high school diploma or GED to sit for the national exams. The PTCB exam has 90 questions and you have 2 hours to complete it. 60 of the questions are multiple-choice and 30 are fill-in-the-blank calculation questions. The NHA has a similar exam with 80 questions, 10 of which are calculations.
State Certification
State certification is not compulsory in Illinois; however, it is recommended. Certification provides pharmacy techs with a way to demonstrate their commitment to their career and gives them an edge when seeking employment. To become certified, pharmacy techs must complete an accredited training program and pass a national certification exam.
Education
Before you can start working as a pharmacy tech in Illinois, you need to complete an accredited pharmacy technician program. You can find these programs at community colleges, technical schools, and online schools. Once you have completed a program, you will need to take the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE) to become certified.
Community Colleges
Community colleges are a great way to get started in your pharmacy technician career. Many community colleges offer certificate programs that can be completed in as little as one semester. These programs will give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to start working as a pharmacy technician.
In Illinois, there are several community colleges that offer pharmacy technician programs. Some of these colleges include Prairie State College, Rock Valley College, and South Suburban College. Each of these colleges has its own admissions requirements, so be sure to check with the school before you apply.
Once you have completed a certificate program, you will need to take the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE) in order to become certified. The PTCE is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). To learn more about the PTCE and how to prepare for it, visit the PTCB website.
Online Programs
There are many online pharmacy tech programs available, but not all of them are accredited. To become a pharmacy tech in Illinois, you need to complete an accredited program and pass a national certification exam.
Here are a few accredited online pharmacy tech programs in Illinois:
– Lincoln Tech offers an online pharmacy tech program that takes about four months to complete.
– College of DuPage offers an online pharmacy tech certification program that takes about two semesters to complete.
– Harper College offers an online pharmacy tech program that can be completed in one semester.
To find more accredited online pharmacy tech programs, visit the Accreditation Commission for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) website.
Licensure
All pharmacy technicians in Illinois must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). The IDFPR oversees all licensure for pharmacy technicians. To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Illinois, you must:
1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Complete a pharmacy technician training program that has been approved by the IDFPR
3. Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
4. Register with the IDFPR
5. Maintain continuing education requirements
Job Outlook
According to the Illinois Department of Employment Security, the number of pharmacy technician jobs in the state is expected to grow by 29.4 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to an aging population that requires more prescription medications, as well as an increase in the number of retail pharmacies. The majority of pharmacy technicians work in retail settings, such as grocery stores, drugstores, and mass merchandisers. However, there are also opportunities to work in hospitals and other health care facilities.
To become a pharmacy technician in Illinois, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a pharmacy technician training program, and pass a national certification exam. Although not required by law, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a formal training program and have their national certification. There are several pharmacy technician training programs available in Illinois, both online and in-person. Once you have completed your training and passed your certification exam, you will need to register with the Illinois Board of Pharmacy. There is no continued education required for pharmacy technicians in Illinois. However, staying up-to-date on new developments in the field can help you advance your career and provide better patient care.
Conclusion
Becoming a pharmacy technician in Illinois is a great way to start a career in the healthcare field. With the right training and certification, you can become a vital part of a pharmacy team and make a difference in the lives of patients.
