Pharmacy Technician

Entry level education: High school diploma or equivalent

Projected 10-year growth: 5% from 2021 to 2031

Number of jobs: 447,300 (2021)

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of medications to patients. They work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists and are responsible for performing a wide range of tasks in the pharmacy setting. Pharmacy technicians work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

The role of a pharmacy technician can vary depending on the setting in which they work. In a retail pharmacy, for example, they may be responsible for taking prescription orders, counting and measuring medications, and providing basic information to customers about their medications. In a hospital setting, they may be responsible for preparing intravenous medications, managing inventory, and delivering medications to patients.

Pharmacy technicians are also responsible for performing administrative tasks such as answering phones, managing patient records, and maintaining inventory. They must be detail-oriented and able to follow specific protocols to ensure that medications are prepared and dispensed accurately.

The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,020 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific employer.

The pharmacy technician program curriculum aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist pharmacists in medication management and patient counseling in a variety of healthcare settings.

Employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase as the population ages and the need for prescription medications continues to rise.

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Obtaining a pharmacy technician certification is a way for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and competency in the field and can lead to increased job opportunities and higher pay. Different certification options are available through organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Financial aid for pharmacy technician students is available through a variety of sources, including federal and state financial aid programs, scholarships, and employer reimbursement programs.

There are many scholarships available for pharmacy technician students from various organizations which can help offset the cost of tuition and other education-related expenses.

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photo of doctor checking on her patient

Choosing a pharmacy tech school can be an important decision that affects your career path and future success in the field. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right school and program for you.

Pharmacy technicians must possess a combination of technical, interpersonal, and organizational skills to succeed in their role, including proficiency in medication dispensing, attention to detail, effective communication with patients and healthcare providers, and the ability to maintain accurate records and manage inventory.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, here are some factors to consider to help you decide if it’s the right path for you.

crop doctor writing prescription on paper
opened notebook with pen on white desk
opened notebook with pen on white desk

Becoming a pharmacy technician offers a rewarding career with competitive pay and opportunities for growth within the field. Additionally, pharmacy technicians play a vital role in ensuring patient safety and healthcare efficiency. Here we look at some of the benefits of pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.

Completing a pharmacy technician program online offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace and from anywhere with an internet connection. However, it is important to ensure that the online program is accredited and offers comprehensive coursework to adequately prepare you for your role as a pharmacy technician.

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