Get on the Fast Track with a Pharmacy Technician Education
It is the job of a pharmacy technician to aid licensed pharmacists in the preparation of prescription medications and other customer service or administrative duties. The majority of pharmacy technicians work in retail and hospital pharmacies. Many employers prefer to hire those who have completed a formal education for pharmacy technician careers.
Though it’s preferred, formal training isn’t required to work in most pharmacies. Some companies or hospitals will offer an on-the-job-training program for new employees. This training encompasses pharmacy tech courses that prepare employees for the daily routine and job duties of the position. Formal pharmacy technician education, however, provides the training and information needed to pass an exam administered by a private national certification board, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
If a technician becomes certified, they will need to re-certify every few years through continuing education. Some states require pharmacy technicians to be registered with the State Board of Pharmacy. Registration usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent and an application fee.
A pharmacy technician is expected to handle routine tasks involved in preparing medications for patients. This can include receiving and processing prescription requests, counting tablets, and labeling medicine bottles. Technicians may also perform administrative tasks, such as answering the telephone and operating the cash register. They will usually communicate with customers face-to-face on a daily basis.
With modern technology ever evolving, the job market for pharmacy technicians is not only increasing in number, but in variety as well. Today’s technicians don’t have to work in retail or a hospital setting. The Internet has now made it possible to work virtually anywhere via online pharmacies. For those looking for a change, a pharmacy technician education can provide the right skills and information to build a whole new career in a fast-paced industry.
Online Pharmacy Technician Training Courses are the Best Solution for Busy Adults
Pharmacy technicians must be quick on their feet and in the know when it comes to pharmaceuticals. Though most states do not currently require technicians to be certified or to complete a formal training program, many retail pharmacies and hospitals do expect incoming employees to have a background in health.
The average salary for a Pharmacy Technician ranges from $10.10 to $14.92 an hour according to the Occupational Employment Statistics survey program. Learn more about the Pharmacy Technician Pay Scale.
