How to Get a Pharmacy Tech Certification

The pharmacy tech certification is not mandatory in all states, but many employers prefer to hire those who have it. Here’s how you can get certified.

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Introduction

Earning your pharmacy technician certification (CPhT) is a key step on the path to becoming a pharmacy technician The certification process ensures that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform your job effectively and safely. Once you have earned your CPhT, you will need to maintain your certification through continuing education and recertification every two years. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get started.

There are two primary ways to become certified as a pharmacy technician:
-You can earn a certificate from a formal education or training program
-You can earn certification through work experience

In order to become certified through work experience, you will need to have at least one year of full-time work experience as a pharmacy technician. Once you have met this requirement, you can sit for the Exam for the Certification of pharmacy technicians (ExCPT). You will need to pass this exam in order to earn your CPhT certification.

If you do not have any work experience as a pharmacy technician, you will need to complete a formal education or training program before you can take the ExCPT exam. There are many different types of programs available, and the one you choose will likely depend on your schedule and learning preferences. Certificate programs typically take between six and twelve weeks to complete, while diploma and degree programs may take up to two years. Once you have completed your formal education or training program, you will be eligible to sit for the ExCPT exam.

Once you have passed the ExCPT exam and earned your CPhT certification, you will need to maintain your certification through continued education credits (CECs). You will need at least 20 CECs every two years in order to renew your certification. These CECs can be earned in many different ways, such as attending conferences or taking online courses. You can find more information about how to earn CECs on the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) website.

Who is a pharmacy technician?

A pharmacy technician is a person who works in a pharmacy and is responsible for various tasks related to the preparation and dispensing of medications. They may also be involved in other aspects of pharmacy operations such as ordering and stocking of drugs and other supplies, billing and insurance claims processing, and customer service.

In order to become a certified pharmacy technician, one must first complete an accredited training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges or technical schools. After completing a training program, candidates must then pass a national certification exam. Once certified, pharmacy technicians must keep their skills up to date by completing continuing education courses on a regular basis.

What are the responsibilities of a pharmacy technician?

A pharmacy technician is responsible for the accurate and safe preparation of prescription medications under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. In most jurisdictions, pharmacy technicians must be certified in order to work in a pharmacy. The duties of a pharmacy technician include, but are not limited to, the following:

-Receive and process prescriptions from patients and doctors
-Prepare prescription medications for dispensing
-Maintain medication stock inventory
-Answer customer questions about medications
-Ensure the accuracy of patient medical records
-Comply with all state and federal regulations

What are the educational requirements to become a pharmacy technician?

There are no formal educational requirements to become a pharmacy technician, although most technicians have a high school diploma Some states require certification or registration, and many employers prefer to hire certified technicians. Certification programs vary, but most last between 6 and 12 months and include classroom, laboratory, and clinical work.

Those who complete a formal education program and pass a state-authorized exam may receive the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. Some states do not require certification for pharmacy technicians; however, many employers prefer or require it.

Prospective pharmacy technicians should take courses in mathematics, biology, and chemistry to prepare for the entrance exam and courses in pharmacology and medical ethics once they enroll in a training program.

What is the difference between a certified and non-certified pharmacy technician?

The main difference between a certified and non-certified pharmacy technician is the level of training and education that they have completed. Certified pharmacy technicians have completed an accredited training program and have passed a national certification exam. Non-certified pharmacy technicians have not completed an accredited training program but may still have some on-the-job training.

While certified pharmacy technicians are not required to complete continuing education credits, it is strongly encouraged. This is because certified pharmacy technicians are expected to maintain their knowledge of the latest developments in the field of pharmacy in order to provide the best possible care to patients.

How do I become a certified pharmacy technician?

There are several ways to become a certified pharmacy technician. The most common way is to complete a training program at a community college or vocational school and then pass a national certification exam. Some states also require technicians to be licensed.

Community college programs typically take one or two semesters to complete and include both classroom and laboratory instruction. Topics covered in these programs include medical terminology, pharmacology, prescription math, pharmacy laws and regulations, and customer service skills.

After completing a training program, candidates must pass the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The PTCE is a computer-based exam that consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 2 hours to complete the exam.

The passing score for the PTCE is 70%. Candidates who do not pass the exam may retake it after 60 days. There is no limit on the number of times a candidate may take the exam.

How often do I need to renew my pharmacy technician certification?

Most pharmacy technicians are required to renew their certification every two years. Some states have different requirements, so be sure to check with your state board of pharmacy. Some employers may also require you to renew your certification more frequently.

What are the benefits of becoming a certified pharmacy technician?

Earning your certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) credential comes with a number of potential benefits, including:

-Increased job opportunities: In many cases, employers prefer or require candidates for pharmacy technician roles to be certified.
-Greater job security: Certified pharmacy technicians may have an advantage when it comes to job stability and security.
-Higher salaries: In some cases, certified pharmacy technicians may earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
-Enhanced professional credibility: Holding the CPhT credential can help instill confidence in patients and other healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

After successful completion of a pharmacy technician program candidates will be eligible to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board’s (PTCB) exam. The PTCB certification is the most widely recognized pharmacy technician credential and is often required for employment. Once certified, technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain their credential.