Pharmacy techs are an essential part of the pharmacy team. Pharmacy techs are responsible for a variety of tasks in the pharmacy. They play a crucial role in helping to keep the pharmacy running smoothly. If you are considering becoming a pharmacy tech, you must know what to expect from the job. This article will discuss what pharmacy techs do and what training they need. We will also talk about the different jobs available for pharmacy techs and the future of this career!
Who is a Pharmacy Tech?
There are many different types of pharmacy technicians, including certified pharmacy technicians (CPTs), registered pharmacy technicians (RPTs), and non-certified pharmacy technicians (NCPTs).
- CPTs have completed an accredited pharmacy technician training program and have passed the national certification exam.
- RPTs have completed a state-approved pharmacy technician training program and have passed a state-specific exam.
- NCPTs have not completed any formal training or education requirements but may still be able to work as pharmacy technicians in some states.
Pharmacy techs can find employment in various settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies. They may also be self-employed as contract workers or consultants.
How to become a Pharmacy tech
To become a pharmacy technician, you must complete a training program and pass the national certification exam. Many different types of programs are available, including online, community college, and hospital-based programs. Many pharmacy tech schools across the U.S. offer certification programs.
You can also become a pharmacy technician by completing on-the-job training. Most states have certification programs for pharmacy technicians; some employers may require certification as a condition of employment. The National Healthcare Association offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPT) credential, which is recognized by most state boards of pharmacy. To earn the CPT credential, candidates must pass a national exam.
Some states have additional requirements for pharmacy technicians, such as completing an apprenticeship or training program and passing a state-specific exam. Check with your state board of pharmacy for specific requirements in your area. Once you have met all the requirements, you will be able to apply for a pharmacy technician license.
The benefits of being a pharmacy tech
There are many benefits to being a pharmacy tech. One of the most obvious is the salary. Pharmacy techs make an excellent living. In fact, the average pharmacy tech makes about $30,000 a year. That's okay for a job requiring only an Associate's degree or certification.
What does a pharmacy tech do on a day-to-day basis?
The day-to-day duties of a pharmacy tech can vary depending on their setting. Generally, pharmacy techs help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to patients. They may also be responsible for tasks such as answering phone calls, stocking shelves, and taking inventory.
In a hospital setting, pharmacy techs may work more closely with patients. They may assist in preparing medications for patients or help pharmacists dispense medication to patients. In a retail setting, pharmacy techs may be responsible for tasks such as answering phone calls, stocking shelves, and taking inventory.
No matter what setting they work in, pharmacy techs must be detail-oriented and able to work under pressure. They must also have excellent customer service skills.
If you are considering becoming a pharmacy tech, it is essential to research the different job options available. Consider whether you want to work in a hospital or retail setting. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing a job as a pharmacy tech. The most important thing is to find a job you are comfortable with and enjoy doing.
What are the education requirements for becoming a pharmacy tech?
Pharmacy techs must have a high school diploma or equivalent in most states. Some states also require pharmacy techs to complete an accredited training program and pass a national certification exam.
If you want to become a pharmacy tech, it is important to research the education requirements in your state. You should also consider whether you want to complete an accredited training program. Completing an accredited training program can help you prepare for the national certification exam and may give you an edge when applying for jobs.
What are the job prospects for pharmacy techs?
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is excellent. Employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for healthcare services will increase as the population ages. As baby boomers age, they will need more medical services for chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.
As prescription medications become more complex and patients take more drugs, pharmacists need technicians to help dispense them quickly and accurately. In addition, many pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, which may require some pharmacy technicians to work evening or night shifts. Some states allow pharmacists to delegate tasks related to compounding and dispensing medications to pharmacy technicians. This delegation can free up pharmacists.
How much does a pharmacy tech earn on average per year?
The average pharmacy tech earns about $32,000 per year. However, the pay can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and employer. Some pharmacy techs earn around $22,000 annually, while others earn over $45,000 yearly.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech?
It takes about two years to complete a pharmacy technician program. Many community colleges offer certification programs, which typically take one year or less to complete. Some hospitals also offer training programs that last several months. To earn credentials, pharmacy technicians must complete an accredited program and pass a national certification exam.
What skills should you have before pursuing this career field?
If you are considering a career as a pharmacy technician, it is important to have certain skills before beginning your training. These skills include:
- Good communication skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to communicate effectively with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
- Organizational skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to keep track of inventory, orders, and prescription information.
- Detail oriented: Pharmacy technicians must be able to pay attention to detail to fill prescriptions accurately.
- Math skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to do basic math to calculate doses and measure medications.
If you have these skills, then a career as a pharmacy technician may be a good fit for you.
What are some of the duties of a pharmacy technician?
Some of the duties of a pharmacy technician include the following:
- Answering customer questions about medications
- Filling prescriptions under the supervision of a pharmacist
- Maintaining records of patient prescriptions
- Ordering and stocking inventory
- Patient prescriptions
- Preparing medications for dispensing
- Providing customer service
Conclusion: If you're considering a career change and want to find a job that is both in demand and has fantastic earning potential, becoming a pharmacy tech may be a perfect choice. With years of steady growth ahead, now is the time to consider this career path.