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If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy tech, check out this blog post to learn how to become one in five steps.
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Introduction
Becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to start a career in the medical industry. Pharmacy techs play an important role in ensuring that pharmacies run smoothly and that patients receive the medications they need.
The process of becoming a pharmacy technician can vary from state to state, but there are some general steps that all aspiring pharmacy techs can follow. This article will outline the five basic steps to becoming a pharmacy technician in the United States.
1. Get your high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Complete a pharmacy technician training program.
3. Pass the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE).
4. Register with your state’s Board of Pharmacy as a pharmacy technician trainee or intern.
5. Find a job as a pharmacy technician.
Step One: Research
Before you dive in and begin taking steps to become a pharmacy technician, it’s important to do your research and make sure that this is the right career for you. Some things you may want to consider include:
-Is this the right career for me?
-What are the job responsibilities of a pharmacy technician?
-What type of education and training do I need to become a pharmacy technician?
-How much does a pharmacy technician make?
-What are the job prospects for pharmacy technicians?
Once you’ve decided that becoming a pharmacy technician is the right decision for you, you can move on to step two.
Step Two: Certification
Earning pharmacy technician certification demonstrates your commitment to the field and gives you an edge in the job market. Pharmacy tech certification is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and National Healthcare Association (NHA). To qualify for certification, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program, and pass an exam.
Some states require pharmacy technicians to be licensed. Requirements for licensure vary by state but may include completing an accredited pharmacy technician training program, passing a criminal background check, and passing an exam. Check with your state board of pharmacy for requirements in your state.
Step Three: Training
Receive on-the-job training. Many pharmacy technicians learn while on the job. You will likely be trained by a more experienced technician or a pharmacist. A formal education program may also provide training. Some community colleges offer certificate programs in pharmacy technology, which generally last one semester or less. These programs prepare students to take the pharmacy technician certification exam (PTCE) and become certified pharmacy technicians.
Step Four: Licensure
In order to practice pharmacy in the United States, every state requires licensure. Licensure board contact information can be found on the National Associations of Boards of Pharmacy website. Although each state has different licensure requirements, most will require candidates to:
Submit an application
Pay a fee
Provide evidence of graduation from a pharmacy technician program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists or another accrediting body recognized by the Board of Pharmacy
Have their criminal background checked
Complete an exam such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Exam or ExCPT
Step Five: Job Hunting
The final step in becoming a pharmacy tech is to find a job. Once you have completed your training and certification, you will be ready to begin your search for employment. You can search for job openings online, in newspapers, or through job placement agencies.
Some pharmacy techs work in hospitals, while others work in retail pharmacies. There are also opportunities to work in insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies. Where you work will depend on your preferences and the needs of the employer.
When you are searching for a job, be sure to include the following information in your resume:
-Your certification from an accredited program
-Your experience working in a pharmacy
-Your skills in customer service and medication administration
With the right training and certification, you can become a part of the growing field of pharmacy technicians. By following these five steps, you can be on your way to a successful career in this field.
