Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in Palmdale, California
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Palmdale, California
Are you considering a rewarding career as a Pharmacy Technician in Palmdale, California? This guide will walk you through the steps to become a Pharmacy Tech, from understanding the role to finding the right training program. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing essential support in various pharmacy settings. Let’s explore the different paths to becoming a Pharmacy Technician and the local options available in Palmdale.
About Palmdale
Palmdale, located in northern Los Angeles County, is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains. As a growing city, Palmdale offers a mix of suburban living and access to outdoor activities. For more information about the city, visit the official Palmdale website.
Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Palmdale, California
Finding the right Pharmacy Technician program is a critical step in your journey. Here are three local schools offering Pharmacy Technician programs in or near Palmdale:
- Antelope Valley College
- Location: Lancaster, CA (approximately 10 miles from Palmdale)
- Program: Antelope Valley College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that prepares students for certification and employment in various pharmacy settings.
- Website: Antelope Valley College Pharmacy Technician Program
- Charter College
- Location: Lancaster, CA (approximately 10 miles from Palmdale)
- Program: Charter College provides a Pharmacy Technician certificate program that includes hands-on training and preparation for national certification exams.
- Website: Charter College Pharmacy Technician Program
- College of the Canyons
- Location: Santa Clarita, CA (approximately 40 miles from Palmdale)
- Program: College of the Canyons offers a Pharmacy Technician program that combines classroom instruction with practical experience in a pharmacy setting.
- Website: College of the Canyons Pharmacy Technician Program
Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Palmdale
Palmdale offers various employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians. Here are some major pharmacies and healthcare facilities in the area:
- Kaiser Permanente Palmdale Medical Offices
- Location: Palmdale, CA
- Description: Kaiser Permanente provides comprehensive healthcare services, including pharmacy services. They frequently have openings for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers
- CVS Pharmacy
- Location: Multiple locations in Palmdale, CA
- Description: CVS Pharmacy is a leading retail pharmacy chain with several locations in Palmdale, offering numerous job opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Website: CVS Health Careers
- Palmdale Regional Medical Center
- Location: Palmdale, CA
- Description: This full-service hospital includes a pharmacy department that employs Pharmacy Technicians to support patient care.
- Website: Palmdale Regional Medical Center Careers
Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs
To enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
– Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
– Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
– Background Check: Some programs may require a background check.
– Medical Status: Proof of immunizations or a health clearance may be required.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California
In California, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
– Training: Complete a PTCB-Recognized Course or an accredited pharmacy technician program.
– Certification: Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or obtain national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
– Application: Submit an application to the California Board of Pharmacy with a $195 application fee, a 2×2 passport-style photo, high school diploma/transcript/GED, NPDB-HIPDB Self-Query Report, and fingerprint card via Live Scan.
– Continuing Education: Complete 10 hours of continuing education per renewal period, with 1 hour in Pharmacy Law and 1 hour in Patient Safety.
Licensure Requirements
The California State Board of Pharmacy issues licenses to Pharmacy Technicians. The process includes:
– License Issuance: Licenses are issued within 60 days of a completed application.
– License Renewal: Renewal is required periodically, with specific timelines and requirements.
Licensure Reciprocity
California does not have formal reciprocity agreements with other states for Pharmacy Technician licensure. However, technicians moving to California must meet the state’s certification and licensure requirements.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Palmdale, California, is a promising step towards a fulfilling and stable profession. With the right training and certification, you can join the ranks of healthcare professionals making a difference in your community. Contact a local school today to begin your journey!