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Pharmacy Tech Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

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Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Jacksonville, Florida

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Pharmacy Technician in Jacksonville, Florida? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Pharmacy Technician, including the different education paths, local training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements. A Pharmacy Technician, also known as a Pharmacy Tech, plays a crucial role in the healthcare system by assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing excellent customer service.

About Jacksonville

Jacksonville, Florida, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful beaches, thriving cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods. As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville offers a mix of urban and suburban living, making it an ideal place to start your career as a Pharmacy Technician. For more information about Jacksonville, visit the official city website.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville offers several excellent options for Pharmacy Technician training programs. Here are three local schools that provide comprehensive Pharmacy Tech programs:

  1. Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ)
    • Location: Downtown Campus
    • Program: FSCJ offers a Pharmacy Technician Workforce Certificate program that prepares students for the PTCB certification exam. The program includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting.
    • Website: FSCJ Pharmacy Technician Program
  2. Concorde Career Institute
    • Location: Southside
    • Program: Concorde offers a diploma program in Pharmacy Technician, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program includes externships to provide real-world experience.
    • Website: Concorde Career Institute Pharmacy Technician Program
  3. Fortis College
    • Location: Westside
    • Program: Fortis College provides a Pharmacy Technician training program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice. The program prepares students for certification exams and entry-level positions.
    • Website: Fortis College Pharmacy Technician Program

Pharmacy Technician Employment Opportunities in Jacksonville

Jacksonville is home to numerous pharmacies and healthcare facilities that offer employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians. Here are some major employers in the area:

  1. Baptist Health
    • Location: Multiple campuses including Downtown and Southside
    • Description: Baptist Health is one of the largest healthcare providers in Northeast Florida, offering a range of services and employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Website: Baptist Health Careers
  2. Mayo Clinic
    • Location: San Pablo Road
    • Description: Mayo Clinic is a renowned healthcare facility known for its patient care and research. They offer various positions for Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Website: Mayo Clinic Careers
  3. UF Health Jacksonville
    • Location: Downtown
    • Description: UF Health Jacksonville is a major academic health center providing comprehensive healthcare services and employing a large number of Pharmacy Technicians.
    • Website: UF Health Jacksonville Careers

Prerequisites for Pharmacy Technician Programs

Before enrolling in a Pharmacy Technician program, you should be aware of the typical prerequisites:
Age: Must be at least 17 years old.
Education: While a high school diploma or equivalent is not required by the Florida Board of Pharmacy, it may be preferred by employers.
Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check.
Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams or assessments.

Pharmacy Technician Certification Requirements in Florida

To become a certified Pharmacy Technician in Florida, you must meet the following requirements:
Registration: Register with the Florida Board of Pharmacy as a Registered Pharmacy Technician.
Training Program: Complete a Board of Pharmacy approved pharmacy technician training program.
Certification: Obtain certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including 4 hours of live presentation, 2 hours related to medication errors, and 1 hour in HIV/AIDS education for the first renewal.

For more details, visit the Florida Board of Pharmacy.

Licensure Requirements

In Florida, Pharmacy Technicians must:
Submit an Application: Complete and submit an application to the Florida Board of Pharmacy.
Pay Fees: Submit a $105 fee for registration, which includes a $50 application processing fee, a $50 initial registration fee, and a $5 unlicensed activity fee.
Biennial Renewal: Pay a $55 biennial renewal fee and complete the required continuing education.

Licensure Reciprocity

If you are a certified Pharmacy Technician moving to Florida from another state, you may need to apply for registration with the Florida Board of Pharmacy. Florida does not have formal reciprocity agreements, so you will need to meet the state’s certification and registration requirements.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Jacksonville, Florida, is a rewarding decision. With a variety of training programs and ample employment opportunities, you can start your journey towards becoming a certified Pharmacy Technician today. Contact a local school to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career.