Are You Ready to Take on a Career as a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician plays an important role in helping pharmacists keep track of medications and ensure that they are safely and accurately dispensed to patients. If you’re looking for an exciting career in healthcare, then becoming a pharmacy technician might be the perfect choice for you. Here, we’ll explore the job of a pharmacy technician, the responsibilities and the requirements, and how you can get started.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who works alongside a pharmacist to provide medication and other healthcare products to patients. They are responsible for receiving and processing prescriptions, preparing medications, and providing support to pharmacists. Pharmacy technicians must have a thorough understanding of medications and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities of a Pharmacy Technician

The primary responsibility of a pharmacy technician is to assist the pharmacist in the preparation and dispensing of medications. This includes counting out pills, labeling bottles, and preparing medication to be dispensed. Additionally, pharmacy technicians must keep accurate records and ensure that all prescriptions are filled in accordance with laws and regulations.

Other responsibilities of a pharmacy technician include:

• Answering patient questions about their medications

• Processing and verifying insurance information

• Maintaining pharmacy inventory

• Stocking shelves with medications

• Processing payments

• Keeping detailed records of controlled substances

Requirements for Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

In order to become a pharmacy technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old. Most states also require pharmacy technicians to complete a formal training program and pass a certification exam.

In addition to formal education and certification, pharmacy technicians must also possess the following skills:

• Excellent customer service skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Knowledge of medical terminology

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Attention to detail

• Excellent organizational skills

How to Get Started

If you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, the first step is to find a pharmacy technician training program that meets your needs. You can look for programs online or contact your local community college for more information. Once you’ve completed your training program and passed the certification exam, you’ll be ready to start your career as a pharmacy technician.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is very positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job is expected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is largely due to an increase in the elderly population and greater demand for prescription medications.

Conclusion

A career as a pharmacy technician is an excellent choice for those who want to work in healthcare and help people. Not only is the job outlook positive, but it also offers an opportunity to work in a fast-paced and rewarding environment. If you’re looking for a new career in healthcare, then becoming a pharmacy technician may be the perfect choice for you.