Pharmacy technician schools give students the chance to start a great new career, in a growing industry. Some techs work in hospitals, although the vast majority are employed by retail establishments. For techs who complete a training program, and obtain certification, job prospects will be excellent.
A pharmacy tech has many different responsibilities. Techs take prescriptions presented electronically, in writing, or over the phone (in some states), and process them. Then, the tech fills prescription, and both preps and labels the container. Also, techs sometimes keep patient records, file insurance claims, and price and file prescriptions. Techs may also have other duties, including operating a cash register, stocking shelves, or answering a telephone.
In home health care settings, techs have additional responsibilities. Techs may, for example, deliver medications, maintain dispensing records, and prepare sterile solutions. However, before a tech provides a prescription to a patient, a pharmacist must double-check the product. Additionally, pharmacists must handle all questions regarding health concerns, drug information, or prescriptions.
Three-fourths of all techs work in a retail environment. Retail requires techs to work on holidays, on weekends, and in the evenings. Because techs may interact with customers, co-workers, and health care professionals, communication and customer service skills are crucial for success.
Over the next ten years, employment for techs is expected to grow rapidly. As the population ages, more people will begin to use prescription drugs on a regular basis. Also, more techs will be necessary to meet demand, as more drugs are produced, and as more people have access to prescription drug coverage. In an effort to cut costs, many insurers are looking to pharmacies, to serve as patient care centers. For this reason, the pharmacist must take on the primary patient care role, while the technician has more responsibility for preparing medications.
Pharmacy techs have no legally-required educational requirements. However, military branches, hospitals, community colleges, and vocational schools all offer training programs. Depending on the location and composition of the program, students may have to study for anywhere from six months to two years. Students should expect lab work, in addition to classes covering pharmaceutical law, ethics, and pharmaceutical technology. For most employers, techs have to obtain a high school diploma.
Techs who want a competitive advantage in the job market should obtain their certification. Some employers will reimburse the cost of exams to their employees, because many states do require certification. Eligibility requirements for certification include either graduating from high school or passing the GED. Also, techs must have no kind of felony conviction, or misdemeanors related to drugs. Techs will maintain their certification by renewing bi-annually, and completing continuing education hours. To learn more about requirements, techs should contact a certification organization.
Opportunities for advancement may be a bit limited. Some techs may acquire specialties, like chemotherapy or nuclear medicine, while others may be promoted to supervisory positions. Additionally, with a good amount of additional study, some techs will eventually become pharmacists. To learn more about an exciting career option, students should investigate available pharmacy technician schools.