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Pharmacy Tech Programs in Lancaster, California

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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Lancaster, California

Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Lancaster, California? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to become a Pharmacy Tech, including education paths, certification requirements, and local training programs. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing excellent customer service. Let’s explore how you can start your journey in Lancaster.

About Lancaster

Lancaster, located in northern Los Angeles County, is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and vibrant community. With a population of over 160,000, Lancaster offers a mix of suburban and urban living. The city is home to landmarks such as the Lancaster Performing Arts Center and the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. For more information about Lancaster, visit the official city website.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Lancaster, California

If you’re looking to become a Pharmacy Technician in Lancaster, several local schools offer programs to help you get started:

  1. Antelope Valley College
    • Location: Lancaster, CA
    • Program: Antelope Valley College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that prepares students for certification and employment. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training.
    • Website: Antelope Valley College Pharmacy Technician Program
  2. CALRegional
    • Location: Lancaster, CA
    • Program: CALRegional provides a Pharmacy Technician program designed to prepare students for the national certification exam and state licensure. The program includes both theoretical and practical training.
    • Website: CALRegional Pharmacy Technician Program
  3. Charter College
    • Location: Lancaster, CA
    • Program: Charter College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that combines online coursework with hands-on lab experience. The program aims to equip students with the skills needed for a successful career in pharmacy.
    • Website: Charter College Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Lancaster

Lancaster is home to several major pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment:

  1. Antelope Valley Hospital
    • Location: Lancaster, CA
    • Description: Antelope Valley Hospital is a 420-bed hospital offering a wide range of medical services. Pharmacy Technicians can find opportunities in various departments.
    • Website: Antelope Valley Hospital Careers
  2. Kaiser Permanente Lancaster Medical Offices
    • Location: Lancaster, CA
    • Description: Kaiser Permanente provides comprehensive healthcare services and employs Pharmacy Technicians to support their pharmacy operations.
    • Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers
  3. CVS Pharmacy
    • Location: Multiple locations in Lancaster, CA
    • Description: CVS Pharmacy is a leading retail pharmacy chain offering numerous employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Website: CVS Pharmacy Careers

Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
Education: High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED)
Age: Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years)
Background Check: Some programs may require a criminal background check
Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and health screenings

Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California

To become a certified Pharmacy Technician in California, you must meet the following requirements:
Education/Training: Complete an Associate’s Degree in Pharmacy Technology from an ACPE-accredited school or another state-approved or ASHP-accredited training program.
National Certification: Obtain certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Federal Armed Services Training: Completion of pharmacy technician training within a branch of the federal armed services.

For more details, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy.

Licensure Requirements

In California, Pharmacy Technicians must be licensed. The licensure process includes:
Application Fee: $195 (non-refundable)
Application Process: Submit an application to the California State Board of Pharmacy, including required documentation (e.g., high school transcript, certification, or military training DD214).
Self-Query Report: Obtain and submit a sealed original Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank – Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank (NPDB-HIPDB).

Licensure Reciprocity

If you are a licensed Pharmacy Technician in another state and wish to transfer your license to California, you must meet California’s specific requirements. This may include additional training or certification. Check with the California State Board of Pharmacy for detailed information.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Lancaster, California, is a rewarding decision. With the right education and certification, you can join a growing field and make a significant impact on patient care. Contact a local school today to start your journey toward becoming a Pharmacy Technician.