How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

Introduction Pharmacy Technicians have never been in higher demand. The number of individuals who need health care assistance has steadily increased in the last decade. Demographic Analysis predicts this number will continue to grow; as a result the number of pharmacy technician schools in the United States has increased to accommodate the publics need. Are you interested in the medical field? Would you like to work in an exciting and rewarding workplace? Perhaps a pharmacy technician career is right for you. About Pharmacy Technicians Pharmacy technicians and pharmacy aids help pharmacists prepare prescription medications, complete several administrative duties, and provide customer service. Some pharmacy technician responsibilities include, counting pills, correctly labeling bottles, and receiving prescription requests.

In larger pharmacies, pharmacy aids generally preform the majority of administrative tasks, including stocking the shelves, operating cash registers and answering phones.

In retail or mail order pharmacies, technicians receive written prescription requests from patients. Prescriptions may also be sent electronically from doctors' offices or prescriptions can even be processed over the phone in some States. It is up to the technician to make sure the prescription is completely accurate. After the prescription is received, the technician prepares the prescription by counting, pouring, weighing, measuring and sometimes even mixing the medication. Technicians then fill and label the appropriate container. After the prescription is filled, technicians file the prescription and mark it with the correct price. Every prescription must be checked by a licensed pharmacist before sold to the customer. Technicians can also be responsible for patient profiles, as well as preparing and organizing insurance claim forms. Technicians are required to refer all patient questions regarding drug information or health matters to a licensed pharmacist. In assisted living facilities and hospitals technicians often have additional responsibilities such as preparing sterile solutions and delivering medications to other medical personnel. Technicians may also record administered medication onto patient profiles.

Pharmacy technicians generally work in clean, bright, organized and well ventilated areas. They usually spend long hours on their feet during an average work day. They also may have to lift heavy boxes or use stepladders to reach high shelves on a regular basis. Pharmacy technicians may also have uncommon work schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays.

There are no national training standards for pharmacy technicians; instead requirements vary from State to State. However, all employers favor applicants with previous experience, certification or school training. Most States do require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Even though most pharmacy technicians receive some informal on-the-job training, employers always favor candidates who have completed training or certification. The informal on-the-job training usually lasts three months to a year.