Discovering the Role of a Pharmacy Technician
"Learn about the important role played by pharmacy technicians in the healthcare industry. Discover the duties and responsibilities of these professionals and the qualifications and skills needed to become one."
What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
When most people think of a pharmacist, they think of the person who is behind the counter filling prescriptions. But what some people don’t realize is that there is another important role in the pharmacy that helps keep things running smoothly – the pharmacy technician.
What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
A pharmacy technician is an important part of the pharmacy team who is responsible for a variety of tasks. These tasks include receiving and preparing prescription orders, managing inventory, and providing customer service. Pharmacy technicians also work closely with pharmacists to ensure that medications are dispensed safely and accurately.
Why Become a Pharmacy Technician?
Becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to get started in the world of healthcare. It’s a great career choice for those who have a passion for helping others and who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment. Pharmacy technicians have the opportunity to work with a variety of people and gain valuable experience in the medical field.
What Skills Are Needed to Become a Pharmacy Technician?
To become a pharmacy technician, there are a few skills that are necessary. First and foremost, pharmacy technicians should have strong customer service skills. They must be able to provide excellent service to customers, answer any questions they may have, and handle difficult situations with a calm and professional demeanor.
In addition to customer service skills, pharmacy technicians must also have a solid understanding of medical terminology and be able to accurately interpret prescriptions. They must also be able to accurately measure, mix, and count medications.
Finally, pharmacy technicians must possess strong organizational skills. They must be able to accurately keep track of inventory and keep up with the fast pace of the pharmacy.
What Kind of Training is Required to Become a Pharmacy Technician?
In most states, pharmacy technicians are required to be certified in order to work. To become certified, pharmacy technicians must complete a formal training program. These programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and online.
Most programs include both classroom and hands-on training, and they usually take about a year to complete. Upon completion of the training program, pharmacy technicians must pass a certification exam.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Pharmacy Technician?
Being a pharmacy technician offers a number of benefits. For one, it is a stable career with good job security. Pharmacy technicians also have the opportunity to work in a variety of different settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
In addition, pharmacy technicians earn a competitive wage and have the opportunity to advance their career. With experience, pharmacy technicians can become certified pharmacy technicians, pharmacy managers, and even pharmacists.
The Bottom Line
Being a pharmacy technician is a great way to enter the world of healthcare and make a difference in people’s lives. Pharmacy technicians must have strong customer service and organizational skills, and must complete a formal training program to become certified. Once certified, pharmacy technicians can enjoy the benefits of a stable career with good job security and the opportunity to advance their career.