A pharmacy technician plays a vital role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications, providing customer support, and managing inventory. If you’re considering a career in this field, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to become a pharmacy technician, including the skills and certifications you’ll need.
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Pharmacy Technician
Before diving into the educational requirements, it’s important to know what pharmacy technicians do. They work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists to:
- Prepare and dispense prescriptions
- Measure and label medications
- Interact with customers, providing essential medication information
- Process insurance claims
- Maintain medication inventories and manage supply orders
Pharmacy technicians work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Key qualities include attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a sense of responsibility.
Step 2: Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent
The first step toward becoming a pharmacy technician is earning a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. Courses in math, biology, and chemistry are particularly beneficial, as they form the foundation for pharmacy work.
Step 3: Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Many states require completing a pharmacy technician training program. These programs are often offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions. The curriculum typically includes:
- Pharmacy law: Understanding legal requirements for handling medications.
- Pharmacology: Basic knowledge of drugs and their effects on the body.
- Pharmacy math: Calculating dosages and managing inventory.
- Customer service: Communication skills for interacting with patients and healthcare professionals.
Programs can take between six months and two years to complete, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience
Some pharmacy technician programs include an externship, providing real-world experience. This training allows you to apply classroom knowledge and build confidence in a pharmacy setting. If your program doesn’t offer this, you can gain practical experience through volunteer work or internships.
Step 5: Get Certified
While certification isn’t required in all states, it significantly boosts your job prospects and earning potential. Two major certification bodies exist for pharmacy technicians:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. Requirements include passing the PTCB exam and adhering to ethical standards.
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Offers a similar certification (ExCPT), requiring an exam and training completion.
Both certifications demonstrate your knowledge and competence to employers. Continuing education is often required to maintain certification.
Step 6: Obtain State Licensure
Many states also require pharmacy technicians to be licensed. Requirements vary by state but typically include passing an exam, completing a background check, and registering with the state pharmacy board. Be sure to check your state’s specific requirements.
Step 7: Find Employment
With your education, certification, and licensure, you’re ready to start job hunting. Pharmacy technicians are in demand in various settings:
- Retail pharmacies: Drugstores like CVS or Walgreens.
- Hospitals: Assisting in medication preparation for patients.
- Long-term care facilities: Providing medication support to residents.
You can also specialize in areas like compounding (customizing medications) or nuclear pharmacy (working with radioactive drugs for cancer treatment).
Step 8: Continue Education and Advance Your Career
Many pharmacy technicians pursue additional education to take on more responsibilities, such as becoming a pharmacist or specializing in a particular area of pharmacy. Keeping your certification current and staying informed about industry trends can help you advance.
Conclusion
Becoming a pharmacy technician offers a stable and rewarding career path in healthcare. By following these steps—completing your education, gaining certification, and obtaining licensure—you’ll be well on your way to success in this growing field.