Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in Long Beach, California
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Long Beach, California
Are you interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Long Beach, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to start your career as a Pharmacy Tech, including the educational paths, certification requirements, and local training programs available. A Pharmacy Technician plays a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. Let’s explore how you can embark on this rewarding career in Long Beach.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its bustling port, beautiful beaches, and diverse neighborhoods. Home to attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Queen Mary, Long Beach offers a dynamic environment for both work and play. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website.
Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Long Beach, California
Several local institutions offer Pharmacy Technician programs to help you get started on your career path. Here are three notable options:
- Long Beach City College (LBCC)
- Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate
- Description: LBCC offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program is designed to prepare students for the PTCB certification exam.
- Location: Liberal Arts Campus, 4901 East Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90808
- Link: LBCC Pharmacy Technician Program
- American Career College (ACC)
- Program: Pharmacy Technician Diploma
- Description: ACC provides a focused Pharmacy Technician program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for the profession. The curriculum includes externships to gain practical experience.
- Location: 236 E. 3rd Street, Long Beach, CA 90802
- Link: ACC Pharmacy Technician Program
- UEI College
- Program: Pharmacy Technician Diploma
- Description: UEI College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that combines theoretical education with practical training. The program aims to equip students with the skills required to excel in various pharmacy settings.
- Location: 401 W. Willow Street, Long Beach, CA 90806
- Link: UEI College Pharmacy Technician Program
Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach hosts several major pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment. Here are some key employers:
- Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
- Description: One of the largest hospitals in the region, offering a wide range of healthcare services.
- Location: 2801 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90806
- Employment Opportunities: Long Beach Memorial Careers
- Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach
- Description: A leading children’s hospital providing specialized care for children and women.
- Location: 2801 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90806
- Employment Opportunities: Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Careers
- CVS Pharmacy
- Description: A national pharmacy chain with multiple locations in Long Beach.
- Location: Various locations
- Employment Opportunities: CVS Careers
Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs
Before enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Education Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent.
– Minimum Age: At least 18 years old.
– Background Check: Completion of a criminal background check.
– Medical Status: Some programs may require proof of immunizations or health screenings.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California
To become a certified Pharmacy Technician in California, you must meet the following requirements:
– PTCB Certification: Complete a PTCB-recognized training program or gain at least 500 hours of practical experience and pass the PTCB exam.
– ExCPT Certification: Enroll in a formal pharmacy technician training program or obtain 1 year of work experience with at least 1200 hours of supervised pharmacy-related work and pass the ExCPT exam.
For more information, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Licensure Requirements
In California, Pharmacy Technicians must obtain a license. Here are the steps:
– Application Fee: $195, non-refundable.
– Application Process: Submit a full application form to the California Board of Pharmacy, including all required documents.
– Self-Query Report: Submit a sealed, original Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), dated within 60 days of application submission.
– SSN or ITIN: Mandatory for the application and Self-Query Report.
– Criminal Background Check: Complete a Live Scan or submit fingerprint cards if residing outside of California.
– Renewal: License must be renewed every two years, with completion of at least one hour of cultural competency course for each renewal period starting January 1, 2024.
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 licensure requirements. California does not have direct reciprocity agreements with other states, so you will need to apply for a new license through the California Board of Pharmacy.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Long Beach, California, is a rewarding decision. With the right education, certification, and training, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in their community. Contact a local school today to begin your journey towards becoming a Pharmacy Technician.