"Exploring a Career as a Pharmacy Technician: What They Do, Education, and Job Outlook"

# What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?

Are you interested in a career in the healthcare industry? You may have considered becoming a pharmacist, but have you ever considered becoming a pharmacy technician? Pharmacy technicians are essential healthcare professionals who are responsible for providing support to pharmacists and helping ensure that medications are dispensed properly. This blog post will provide an overview of what pharmacy technicians do, the education and training requirements, and the job outlook.

## What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is an individual who works in a pharmacy, typically under the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist. The role of a pharmacy technician is to help the pharmacist in providing medication and other health care products to patients. Some of their duties may include:

* Preparing and filling prescriptions

* Answering customer inquiries

* Processing insurance claims

* Verifying patient information

* Keeping records of prescriptions

* Updating patient profiles

* Maintaining inventory

## Education and Training Requirements

The educational and training requirements for a pharmacy technician vary by state. The minimum requirement is typically a high school diploma or equivalent. However, most employers prefer to hire pharmacy technicians who have completed a formal training program. These programs typically include in-depth instruction on pharmacy operations and processes, drug safety and accuracy, and pharmacy law and ethics.

Once they have completed their training, pharmacy technicians must pass a certification exam to become certified. Certification is not required in all states, but it is highly recommended as it demonstrates that the technician has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a pharmacy technician.

## Job Outlook

The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is very positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for prescription medications and the aging population.

The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians is $33,950. The highest paid pharmacy technicians can earn up to $53,000 per year. Additionally, there are opportunities for advancement. Experienced pharmacy technicians may become pharmacy managers or even pharmacists.

## The Bottom Line

Pharmacy technicians are essential healthcare professionals who provide support to pharmacists and help ensure that medications are dispensed properly. To become a pharmacy technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a formal training program. With the increasing demand for prescription medications and the aging population, the job outlook for pharmacy technicians is very positive. If you are interested in a career in the healthcare industry, becoming a pharmacy technician is a great option.