Are you interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician? If so, you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to kickstart your journey towards becoming a pharmacy technician.
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to prepare prescription medications, provide customer service, and perform various administrative tasks in a pharmacy setting. Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications and have a positive experience at the pharmacy.
Education and Training Requirements
In order to become a pharmacy technician, you will need to complete a formal education or training program. Most pharmacy technician programs can be completed in as little as six months to a year and are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions. These programs typically cover topics such as pharmacy law and ethics, pharmaceutical calculations, and medication dispensing.
Certification and Licensing
While certification is not always required to work as a pharmacy technician, many employers prefer to hire certified individuals. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) both offer certification exams that can help boost your credentials and marketability as a pharmacy technician. Additionally, some states may require pharmacy technicians to be licensed, so be sure to check the specific requirements in your state.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is about average for all occupations. The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $33,950 in May 2019. However, your salary as a pharmacy technician may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and certification status.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to become a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can set yourself up for success in the pharmacy technician field. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences on the path to becoming a pharmacy technician, feel free to leave a comment below!