Ever wonder who prepares prescription medications at the local pharmacy? Or how hospitals have a seemingly endless supply of medications available across the different hospital wings?
Pharmacy Technicians are certified healthcare professional who prepare, package, and distribute medications in a pharmacy setting. Technicians are knowledgeable in the both the operations and functions of a pharmacy, making them a valuable resource in any pharmacy setting.
The pathway to becoming a pharmacy technician begins with a Pharmacy Technician Certificate offered at a PTCB recognized university like the University of Providence. At UP, aspiring pharmacy technicians will be immersed in a broad scope of clinical, technical, and administrative competencies required to succeed in the field. Continue reading to learn more:
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians are certified healthcare professionals responsible for preparing, packaging, and dispensing prescription medications in healthcare or retail settings.
What does a Pharmacy Technician do?
Pharmacy technicians provide support and assistance pharmacist and pharmacy staff by assisting with the day-to-day operations of retail or hospital pharmacy function. While each job description is different, technicians must be knowledgeable and proficient in the practices and procedures around preparing, packaging, and dispensing prescription medications. Furthermore, technicians must possess strong communication skills when working with customers and pharmacy staff. While each position is different, some common job responsibilities for pharmacy technicians include:
- Receiving medication shipments
- Track and manage pharmacy and prescription inventory
- Package and label medications, IVs, and other forms of medication
- Preparing intravenous and injection-based medications for use
- Processing patient insurance and payment information
Where do Pharmacy Technicians Work?
There are two primary work environments for pharmacy techs; hospitals, and retail pharmacy locations. Pharmacy technicians who work in hospitals are responsible for the preparing, packaging and labeling of various medications that exclusively serves the hospital and its patients. Pharmacy technicians who work in hospital settings will work with physicians, specialists, nurses and patients to ensure they are receiving the necessary medications and prescriptions.
Retail pharmacy technicians, on the other hand, are responsible for performing the duties of a pharmacy technician inside a retail pharmacy location such as a local or chain drug store, a pharmacy satellite location, superstore pharmacies, and other such locations. Technicians who pursue work in retail pharmacy settings are often exposed to a diverse range of patients as they work in teams with other technicians and pharmacy staff to fill prescriptions for the general public.
Today’s pharmacy technicians can find positions in many of these locations:
- Hospitals
- Clinics
- Retail Pharmacies
- Long-Term Care Centers
- Pharmaceutical Companies
How to Become a Pharmacy Technician
The pathway to becoming a pharmacy tech varies by state, with each one requiring different education, certification and work requirements. However, the traditional pathway includes requiring students to earn a post-secondary educational certificate and national certification/licensure through a certifying board such as the PTCB or NHA. It is important for all aspiring technicians to review their specific states requirements ahead of enrolling for a certificate, program, or position.
In most states, the pathway to securing a spot as a pharmacy tech includes these important steps:
- Earn a high school diploma.
- Receive post-secondary educational certificate or associate degree.
- Gain real-word experience through internship, practicum, or work-study experience.
- Receive national certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certificate Board
Pharmacy Technician Career Outlook
Those who become pharmacy technicians and are interested in advancing their career can choose to continue their education in pursuit of a more advanced career in pharmacy or adjacent field in healthcare. Many pharmacy technicians use their experience they’ve gained on the job to pursue opportunities as a licensed pharmacist, registered nurse, or healthcare administrator.
Furthermore, some technicians who are passionate about the position elect to train and educate the incoming workforce through teaching or instructing. This role can be served alongside an existing pharmacy tech role or as an advancement to a full-time position.
Whether you’re considering a career change or interested in entering the healthcare field out of high school, becoming a certified pharmacy technician can provide a strong roadmap for motivated professionals seeking to enter the healthcare field. Additionally, pharmacy technician can choose to continue their education through distinct opportunities for advancement.
