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If you’re looking to become a certified pharmacy technician there are a few things you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to complete a training program that’s been accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll then need to pass a national certification exam.
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Introduction
Earning your pharmacy technician certification (CPhT) is a key step toward launching a successful career in pharmacy. Certification demonstrates to employers, patients, and the general public that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your job at the highest level.
There are several ways to become a certified pharmacy technician, but the most common path is to complete a formal education program and then pass a nationally recognized certification exam. In some states, certification may also be required by law.
Here’s what you need to know about how to become a certified pharmacy technician.
What is a pharmacy technician?
A pharmacy technician is a person who is trained to help a pharmacist dispense prescription medications. In most states, pharmacy technicians must be licensed or registered with the state board of pharmacy. Some states require certification by a nationally recognized organization such as the National Healthcare Association (NHA) or the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
To become a pharmacy technician, you will need to complete a training program that has been approved by your state board of pharmacy. Once you have completed your training, you will be eligible to take the national certification exam offered by the PTCB or the NHA. After you have passed the exam, you will be able to apply for a license or registration with your state board of pharmacy.
The duties of a pharmacy technician
A pharmacy technician is a professional who helps pharmacists dispense medication to patients. They typically work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.
The duties of a pharmacy technician include:
-greeting customers and answering their questions
-accepting prescription orders from patients and doctors
– verifying insurance coverage
– filling prescriptions
-answering phone calls
– processing payments
– keeping the pharmacy stocked and organized
The benefits of becoming a pharmacy technician
There are many benefits to becoming a pharmacy technician. One of the most obvious is the increased potential for employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technician employment is projected to grow 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.1
In addition to an increased chance of finding work, pharmacy technicians also enjoy:
• The potential to earn a good salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $32,700 in May 2018.2
• The opportunity to work in a variety of settings. Pharmacy technicians can find employment in retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, and even the pharmaceutical industry.
• The ability to take on more responsibility over time. With experience, pharmacy technicians may be able to assume more responsibility for tasks such as ordering inventory and training new employees.
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician can help you take advantage of these opportunities and start on the path toward a rewarding career in healthcare.
How to become a pharmacy technician
There are many reasons why you might want to become a pharmacy technician. Perhaps you have always been interested in medicine and helping people, or maybe you are looking for a stable career with good pay and benefits. Whatever your reasons, if you want to become a pharmacy technician, you will need to get certified.
Complete a certified pharmacy technician program
If you want to become a certified pharmacy technician, you’ll need to complete a certified pharmacy technician program There are many different options for completing this type of program, including both online and in-person programs. Once you’ve completed a certified pharmacy technician program, you’ll be eligible to take the national certification exam.
Pass the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE)
In order to become a certified pharmacy technician, you must first pass the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE). The PTCE is a computer-based exam that consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. You will have two hours to complete the exam.
To prepare for the PTCE, you can purchase study materials from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or from a variety of other sources. Once you feel confident that you are ready to take the exam, you can register for it through the PTCB website.
The PTCE is not an easy exam, but it is certainly achievable with proper preparation. Be sure to give yourself enough time to study and do not try to cram everything in last minute. Good luck!
Complete a state-specific exam (if required)
Before you can become a pharmacy technician, you will likely need to complete a state-specific exam. Some states have their own certification programs, while others require certification from a national organization such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
If your state requires certification, you will need to pass an exam that covers topics such as pharmacology, medical terminology, and pharmacy law. The 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, and you must have completed a training program or have at least 1 year of experience working as a pharmacy technician.
You can find study materials for the PTCB exam online or through your local library. Once you pass the exam, you will need to renew your certification every 2 years by completing 20 hours of continuing education credits.
Conclusion
In order to become a certified pharmacy technician, you will need to pass a certification exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will be able to work as a pharmacy technician in most states. Some states may require you to become licensed as well.
