What Is a Pharmacy Technician?

Pharmacy technicians work under the supervision of pharmacists to provide support services in pharmacies. Their responsibilities include receiving, dispensing, and inventorying medications, as well as assisting with the preparation of IV solutions and other sterile products. Pharmacy technicians may also provide patient education and counseling on medications.

Pharmacy technicians typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may require certification from a pharmacy technician training program. Pharmacy technicians are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.

Here are some of the specific duties of a pharmacy technician:

* Receive and verify prescriptions from physicians

* Dispense medications to patients

* Maintain inventory of medications

* Prepare IV solutions and other sterile products

* Provide patient education and counseling on medications

* Perform quality control checks on medications

* Communicate with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals

* Handle insurance claims and billing

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system by ensuring that patients receive accurate and timely medication. They are an important part of the pharmacy team and contribute to the overall success of the pharmacy.

Career Outlook

The employment of pharmacy technicians is expected to grow by 7% from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the increased demand for prescription medications and the need for pharmacy technicians to provide support services in pharmacies.

Pharmacy technicians can earn a median annual salary of $32,710. The top 10% of earners make more than $47,000 per year.

Education and Training

Pharmacy technicians typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require certification from a pharmacy technician training program. These programs can typically be completed in one to two years and may be offered at community colleges or vocational schools.

Pharmacy technician training programs cover a variety of topics, including:

* Pharmacy law

* Pharmacology

* Pharmacy calculations

* Medication dispensing

* Patient education and counseling

* Sterile product preparation

* Quality control

Pharmacy technicians must also pass a national certification exam to demonstrate their competency. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam.

Licensure and Certification

Pharmacy technicians are not required to be licensed by the state, but some employers may require certification. The PTCB offers the CPhT exam, which is a nationally recognized certification for pharmacy technicians.

Skills and Qualities

Pharmacy technicians need a variety of skills and qualities to be successful, including:

* Attention to detail

* Accuracy

* Math skills

* Communication skills

* Teamwork skills

* Problem-solving skills

* Customer service skills

Pharmacy technicians must also be able to work independently and under pressure.