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.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming A Pharmacy Technician? >>
What are the Requirements for Starting a Pharmacy Technician Program? >>
How Long Does it Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician? >>
Why should i choose an online pharmacy technician program? >>
Additional Career Paths for Certified Pharmacy Technician Programs >>
How Much Do Pharmacy Technicians Make?
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.
What is the Curriculum like in a Pharmacy Technician Program?
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.
What is the Job Forecast for Pharmacy Technicians?
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.
Pharmacy Technician Certifications
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).
How Much does it Cost to go to Pharmacy Technician School?
The cost of going to pharmacy tech school can vary depending on several factors, including the type of program you choose, the location of the school, and the duration of the program. Find out what these costs include.
Financial Aid for Pharmacy Technician Programs
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.
Scholarships for Pharmacy Technician 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.
What Will My Duties Be As a Pharmacy Technician?
Pharmacy technicians are responsible for assisting licensed pharmacists in dispensing medications, providing customer service, and performing administrative tasks. They may also be responsible for managing inventory, labeling medication, and helping to ensure that medications are stored and handled properly.
How To Choose a Pharmacy Technician School?
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.
What Skills Are Required to Become a Pharmacy Technician?
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.
how do I know if pharmacy tech is Right for me?
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.
A Day In the Life of a Pharmacy Technician
A typical day in the life of a pharmacy technician involves a combination of administrative, technical, and customer service duties, including filling prescriptions, managing inventory, communicating with patients and healthcare providers, and processing insurance claims. In this section, we will take a look at a typical day in the life of a pharmacy technician.
Find Accredited Pharmacy Technician Schools Near You
See which schools in your state offer pharmacy tech programs.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Pharmacy Technician?
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.
What are the Requirements to Start a Pharmacy Technician Program?
Starting a pharmacy technician program generally requires researching and selecting a program, meeting educational requirements such as a high school diploma, completing an application process, and considering factors such as accreditation, certification, and financial aid options.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician?
The length of time it takes to become a pharmacy technician varies depending on the type of program you choose, the requirements of your state or country, and your own personal circumstances. It can take anywhere from six months to two years or more to become a pharmacy technician.
Why should i choose an online pharmacy technician program?
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.
Additional Career Paths for Pharmacy Technicians Programs
Completing a pharmacy technician program can provide you with a foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to a variety of careers in the healthcare industry.