Pharmacy Tech Schools
Pharmacy Tech Programs in Salinas, California
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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Salinas, California
Are you considering a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Salinas, California? This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding what a Pharmacy Technician does to the educational paths available and the requirements for certification and licensure. Let’s dive into the steps you need to take to become a Pharmacy Tech in Salinas.
About Salinas
Salinas, known as the “Salad Bowl of the World,” is a vibrant city in Monterey County, California. With its rich agricultural heritage and close proximity to the stunning Monterey Bay, Salinas offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. For more information about the city, visit the official Salinas website.
Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Salinas, California
If you’re looking to become a Pharmacy Technician in Salinas, you’ll need to complete a formal training program. Here are some local schools offering Pharmacy Technician programs:
- Hartnell College
- Location: Central Salinas
- Program Description: Hartnell College offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
- Program Link: Hartnell College Pharmacy Technician Program
- Central Coast College
- Location: East Salinas
- Program Description: Central Coast College provides a Pharmacy Technician program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the field. The program includes externship opportunities.
- Program Link: Central Coast College Pharmacy Technician Program
- Monterey Peninsula College
- Location: Monterey (approximately 20 miles from Salinas)
- Program Description: Monterey Peninsula College offers a Pharmacy Technician program that covers essential skills and knowledge required for the role.
- Program Link: Monterey Peninsula College Pharmacy Technician Program
Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Salinas
Salinas has several major pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment. Here are some key employers:
- Natividad Medical Center
- Location: North Salinas
- Description: Natividad Medical Center is a major healthcare provider in the region, offering a range of medical services and employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Employment Link: Natividad Medical Center Careers
- Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System
- Location: South Salinas
- Description: This healthcare system includes a hospital and various clinics, providing numerous job opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
- Employment Link: Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Careers
- Walgreens Pharmacy
- Location: Multiple locations in Salinas
- Description: Walgreens is a well-known pharmacy chain offering positions for Pharmacy Technicians across its various locations in Salinas.
- Employment Link: Walgreens 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 (GED, HiSET, TASC, or CHSPE).
– Age: Minimum age requirement (usually 18 years old).
– Background Check: Some programs may require a background check.
– Medical Status: Proof of immunizations and health screenings may be necessary.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California
To become a certified Pharmacy Technician in California, including Salinas, you must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Complete a pharmacy technician training program accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or a course with at least 240 hours of instruction. Alternatively, obtain national certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), or complete training within a branch of the federal armed services.
- Application: Submit a completed application to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
- Fee: Pay a non-refundable application fee of $195.
- Photo: Include a passport-style photo taken within 60 days of filing your application.
- Documentation: Provide documentation of your high school transcript, a foreign secondary school diploma, or equivalent.
- Certification: Obtain certification from the PTCB or NHA.
- Background Check: Complete a fingerprint scan through the Live Scan service.
- Self-Query Report: Provide a sealed original Self-Query Report from the National Practitioner Data Bank – Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank (NPDB-HIPDB).
For more information, visit the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Licensure Requirements
In addition to certification, you must obtain a license to practice as a Pharmacy Technician in California. This involves:
– Application: Submitting an application to the California State Board of Pharmacy.
– Fees: Paying the required fees.
– Continuing Education: Completing ongoing education requirements to maintain your license.
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. For detailed information, contact the California State Board of Pharmacy.
Get Started Today
Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Salinas, California, is a rewarding career choice with numerous opportunities. Start your journey today by researching local Pharmacy Technician programs and contacting schools to learn more about their offerings. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry!