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Pharmacy Tech Programs in Santa Rosa, California

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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Santa Rosa, California

Are you interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Santa Rosa, California? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to start your career as a Pharmacy Tech, from education and training to certification and employment opportunities. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in healthcare, assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing essential support to patients.

About Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa, located in the heart of Sonoma County, is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and thriving community. With a population of over 175,000, Santa Rosa offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, including the famous Luther Burbank Home & Gardens and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. For more information about Santa Rosa, visit the official city website.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Santa Rosa, California

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Santa Rosa, you’ll need to complete a formal training program. Here are three local schools offering Pharmacy Technician programs:

  1. Santa Rosa Junior College
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Certificate Program
    • Description: Santa Rosa Junior College 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: Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: Santa Rosa Junior College Pharmacy Technician Program
  2. Empire College
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Diploma Program
    • Description: Empire College provides a focused Pharmacy Technician program that covers essential topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and medication preparation. The program includes an externship to gain practical experience.
    • Location: Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: Empire College Pharmacy Technician Program
  3. CALRegional
    • Program: Pharmacy Technician Program
    • Description: CALRegional offers a Pharmacy Technician program that combines online coursework with in-person labs and externships. The program is designed to meet California state requirements and prepare students for certification exams.
    • Location: Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: CALRegional Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa is home to several major pharmacies and healthcare facilities where Pharmacy Technicians can find employment. Here are some key employers:

  1. Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa Medical Center
    • Description: A leading healthcare provider in the region, Kaiser Permanente offers a range of medical services and employs numerous Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Location: Bicentennial Way, Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: Kaiser Permanente Careers
  2. Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital
    • Description: Part of the Sutter Health network, this hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services and has opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Location: Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: Sutter Health Careers
  3. CVS Pharmacy
    • Description: CVS Pharmacy is a nationwide chain with multiple locations in Santa Rosa, offering various roles for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Location: Various locations in Santa Rosa, CA
    • Website: CVS Health Careers

Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs

To enroll in a Pharmacy Technician program in Santa Rosa, you typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC)
Age: Must be at least 18 years old
Background Check: Completion of a criminal background check
Medical Status: Some programs may require proof of immunizations or a health screening

Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in California

In California, Pharmacy Technicians must meet specific certification requirements:
Educational Requirements: Complete one of the following:
– Associate Degree in Pharmacy Technology
– Graduation from an ACPE-accredited school of pharmacy
– Completion of a state-approved or ASHP-accredited training program
– National certification from the PTCB or NHA
– Training provided by a branch of the federal armed services
Certification Options:
PTCB Certification: Complete a recognized training program or gain 500 hours of practical experience, then pass the PTCB exam.
ExCPT Certification: Enroll in a formal training program or obtain 1 year of work experience with at least 1200 hours of supervised pharmacy-related work, then pass the ExCPT exam.

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

Licensure Requirements

Pharmacy Technicians in California must obtain a license from the California State Board of Pharmacy:
Application Fee: $195 (non-refundable)
Application Process: Submit the application form, meet all requirements, and provide necessary documentation such as transcripts or certification.
Additional Requirements:
Age: Must be at least 18 years old
Background Check: Complete a Live Scan or submit fingerprint cards if residing outside of California
Self-Query Report: Submit a sealed, original Self-Query Report from the NPDB dated within 60 days of application submission
Renewal: Licenses must be renewed every two years, with a cultural competency course required 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 specific requirements and submit an application to the California State Board of Pharmacy. Reciprocity agreements may vary, so it’s essential to check with the Board for the most current information.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Santa Rosa, California, is a rewarding and achievable goal. With the right education, 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 toward becoming a certified Pharmacy Technician.