Pharmacy Technician—A Growing Career Field with High Demand

Are you looking for a rewarding career in healthcare that offers job stability, a flexible work schedule, and the chance to impact people’s lives positively? Becoming a pharmacy technician might be the perfect choice for you. 

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, working closely with pharmacists to ensure patients receive the needed medications.

This article will outline the top reasons you should consider pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.

1. Job Stability and Growth

The healthcare sector is expanding quickly, leading to a higher demand for skilled pharmacy technicians. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts pharmacy technician jobs will increase by 4% between 2019 and 2029, similar to the average growth rate for all professions. 

The primary reason for this growth is the rising number of individuals needing prescription medications as the population gets older. As a pharmacy technician, you’ll be joining a steady job market with numerous possibilities for progress and development.

2. Quick Entry into the Workforce

Becoming a pharmacy technician is relatively quick compared to other healthcare professions that demand extensive education and training. 

Most pharmacy technician courses can be finished in a year, with some providing accelerated alternatives that can be done in just six months. 

After your education, you must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and register with your state’s pharmacy board. Once these steps are completed, you’ll be prepared to embark on your new profession in a short amount of time.

3. Flexible Work Schedule

Pharmacy technicians can enjoy a great deal of flexibility when it comes to their work schedules. Many pharmacies are open 24/7, which means you’ll have the option to work days, nights, or weekends. 

This flexibility allows you to create a work-life balance that suits your lifestyle and needs. Whether you’re a parent looking for a job that allows you to be home during the day or a student looking for a job that works around your class schedule, a career as a pharmacy technician can provide the flexibility you need.

4. Variety of Work Environments

As a pharmacy technician, you can work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies. This variety allows you to find a work environment that best suits your personality and interests. 

A retail pharmacy might be the perfect fit if you enjoy interacting with people and providing exceptional customer service. On the other hand, if you prefer a more fast-paced clinical setting, working in a hospital pharmacy could be your ideal choice.

5. Making a Positive Impact on People’s Lives

Pharmacy technicians are vital in ensuring people get the necessary medications to preserve their health and overall well-being. As a pharmacy technician, you have the chance to influence individuals’ lives positively every day. 

Your job entails correctly dispensing prescriptions, offering crucial details to patients regarding their medicines, and collaborating with pharmacists to tackle any potential drug interactions or concerns. Your efforts will significantly impact the health and well-being of your community, giving you a feeling of achievement and purpose.

6. Opportunities for Advancement

A career as a pharmacy technician offers numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. With experience and additional training, you can specialize in chemotherapy, nuclear pharmacy, or medication therapy management. 

There are also opportunities to move into management or supervisory roles within your pharmacy or transition into other healthcare industry areas, such as pharmaceutical sales or medical device manufacturing.

Conclusion

Choosing a career as a pharmacy technician provides job stability, a flexible work schedule, diverse work environments, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. 

With relatively quick entry into the workforce and many advancement opportunities, a pharmacy technician career can be rewarding and fulfilling. If you’re considering a healthcare career, consider the benefits of becoming a pharmacy technician.

If you’re looking for a pharmacy technician school, Northwest Suburban College is the place for you. Our Dental Assisting Program lasts eight months and provides career opportunities and real-world experience. Located in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, we offer the best training for all our students. Fill up our form and get more information today!

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