Did you know the employment of pharmacy technicians is bound to grow 12 percent from now through the better part of the next decade?
Given that the average growth for all occupations in the United States in the same period is 7 percent, we’re right to conclude pharmacy techs are in demand. So if you’re looking to join this career, you’ve made a sound decision.
Now your task is to begin the journey to becoming a pharmacy technician. But what does it involve?
Here’s a lowdown on what it takes to get this job, including the pharmacy technician certification you need to obtain.
1. Understand the Role of a Pharmacy Tech
Just because a job has a high demand isn’t reason enough to go for it. You must also be passionate about it.
As such, it’s vital to understand the role of pharmacy tech before you take the next step.
What do they do on a daily basis? Are you comfortable with the typical duties and responsibilities? Also, how is the work environment like?
Do your research online and if possible, get more information from pharm techs who work in the pharmacies in your locality.
2. Pursue Professional Training
A couple of years ago it was possible to get this job with just a high school diploma or GED. You would then undergo extensive on-the-job training.
However, as the marketplace becomes more competitive, employers are looking for people with professional training. This is why an increasing number of colleges are offering pharmacy tech associate degrees.
You’ll take courses such as medical terminology, human dynamics, introduction to patients and diseases, pharmacy law and ethics, medical safety, and customer service.
When choosing a program, ensure it’s accredited by a professional body, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.
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3. Develop Occupational Skills
Professional knowledge alone can only get you so far in this job. To be a competent pharm tech, you also need the right occupational skills.
For instance, a pharmacy tech spends most of the time dispensing medicines, which means this is a customer-facing job.
How good are your communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills? You should be the kind of person who naturally smiles at people and listens keenly.
Also, the job involves measuring amounts of medications, packaging, and labeling prescriptions. You need keen attention to small details to ensure you don’t make dispensing errors that can prove costly.
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4. Get Licensed (If Required)
Licensing requirements for pharmacy techs vary from state to state, so be sure to know your state’s specific requirements.
If a license is needed, you have to successfully complete the licensing process. This typically involves paying a licensing fee, providing proof of your professional training, sitting a licensing exam, and undergoing a criminal background check.
Once you’ve your license, you’re ready to start hunting for a job. Hospitals and pharmacy and drug stores are the main employers.
A Pharmacy Technician Certification Will Take You Places
Becoming a pharmacy tech involves a couple of steps, but obtaining the pharmacy technician certification is the most important step. With professional training, everything else just falls in place.
All the best in your career endeavors and keep coming back to our blog for more tips.