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Considering a Career as a Pharmacy Technician? Your Comprehensive Guide
Are you interested in a healthcare career that combines customer service, attention to detail, and a passion for helping others? Becoming a pharmacy technician might be the perfect path for you. Let’s explore what this career entails, from education requirements to job outlook and everything in between.
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, working under the supervision of licensed pharmacists. These professionals help dispense prescription medications to customers and health professionals.
What are the typical responsibilities of a pharmacy technician?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technicians typically:
- Collect information needed to fill prescriptions
- Measure amounts of medication for prescriptions
- Package and label prescriptions
- Organize inventory and alert pharmacists to any shortages
- Accept payments and process insurance claims
- Enter customer information into computer systems
How Do You Become a Pharmacy Technician?
What education and training is required?
While specific requirements can vary by state, most pharmacy technicians need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology. These programs are available at community colleges, technical schools, and some universities.
What does a typical pharmacy technician program curriculum include?
A comprehensive pharmacy technician program, such as the one offered by CareerStep, usually covers:
- Pharmacy law and regulations
- Pharmacology
- Medical terminology
- Pharmaceutical calculations
- Pharmacy business operations
- Sterile and non-sterile compounding
Most programs also include hands-on training through laboratory work and sometimes internships or externships.
What Certifications and Licenses Do Pharmacy Technicians Need?
While not always required, certification can significantly improve job prospects and potentially lead to higher salaries. The two main certifications for pharmacy technicians are:
- Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE): Offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)
- Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT): Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Many states also require pharmacy technicians to be licensed or registered. Requirements vary, so it’s essential to check with your state’s board of pharmacy.
What is the Career Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians?
How is the job market for pharmacy technicians?
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of pharmacy technicians to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in about 44,900 job openings each year over the decade.
Where do pharmacy technicians typically work?
According to Stepful, pharmacy technicians work in various settings:
- Pharmacies and drug retailers: 52%
- Hospitals: 16%
- Research centers, government agencies, and other settings: 32%
What Can Pharmacy Technicians Expect to Earn?
As of May 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $40,300. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and certifications.
All Allied Health Schools provides a state-by-state breakdown of pharmacy technician salaries, showing that some states, like California, Washington, and Alaska, tend to offer higher wages.
How Can Pharmacy Technicians Advance Their Careers?
Many pharmacy technicians use this role as a stepping stone to other healthcare careers. With additional education and training, you could pursue roles such as:
- Pharmacist
- Pharmacy manager
- Pharmaceutical sales representative
- Medical equipment sales representative
Some pharmacy technicians also specialize in areas like chemotherapy, nuclear pharmacy, or compounding, which can lead to higher salaries and more specialized roles.
Is a Pharmacy Technician Career Right for You?
Becoming a pharmacy technician can be an excellent choice if you:
- Enjoy working with people and providing customer service
- Have strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Are interested in healthcare but prefer a role with regular hours
- Want a career with solid job prospects and opportunities for advancement
However, it’s important to consider potential challenges, such as standing for long periods, working with sensitive medications, and dealing with stressed or ill patients.
What Are the Next Steps to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, consider these steps:
- Research your state’s requirements for pharmacy technicians
- Look into accredited pharmacy technician programs in your area or online
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in pharmacies
- Prepare for and take a certification exam
- Stay updated on continuing education requirements and industry trends
Remember, a career as a pharmacy technician can be both rewarding and challenging. By understanding the role, education requirements, and career prospects, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if this path is right for you.