The pharmacy technician is an integral part of the healthcare industry. They are responsible for helping pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients. Pharmacy technicians are also responsible for maintaining medication inventory, preparing labels, and providing customer service.
As technology advances and the healthcare industry changes, pharmacy technicians must stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations. Additionally, pharmacy technicians must gain a thorough understanding of the pharmacy practice, including the laws and regulations governing medications and pharmacy operations.
The Different Roles of a Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician’s role includes providing customer service, stocking shelves, preparing medications, and managing inventory. They must also have a good understanding of common medications and their uses and the ability to accurately read prescriptions, package, and label medications, and use computers for data entry.
The Education and Training Required to Become a Pharmacy Technician
Becoming a pharmacy technician requires a mix of formal education and on-the-job training. Most states require pharmacy technicians to have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Additionally, some employers may require proper certification from a professional organization. To become certified, pharmacy technicians must complete a training program and pass an exam.
Once employed, pharmacy technicians receive additional training on the job. They usually learn about the drugs and equipment used in a pharmacy. They also know how to accurately calculate dosages, measure medications, and keep records. They may be trained on how to help customers with insurance claims and other topics related to pharmacy services.
The Day-to-Day Work of a Pharmacy Technician
As a pharmacy technician, you will be responsible for a range of duties that help pharmacists run the pharmacy. On a day-to-day basis, you may be expected to take customer orders, answer medication questions, and count, pour, measure, and mix the medication.
You may also be responsible for stocking shelves, collecting payments, and keeping records of medications. Pharmacy technicians must have a strong understanding of medical terminology and be able to measure, prepare, and dispense medications accurately. Attention to detail is a must, as mistakes can be potentially dangerous. The job can be stressful and demanding, but it can also be rewarding knowing that you are helping others.
Why Become a Pharmacy Technician
Being a pharmacy technician can be a great career choice for many individuals. It offers a good salary, job security, and a wide range of benefits.
First, pharmacy technicians are in high demand. This means that you will have no shortage of job opportunities available to you. Pharmacy technicians are needed in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, retail stores, pharmacies, and even online.
Second, pharmacy technicians are a vital part of the healthcare team. They are responsible for helping to ensure that the medications prescribed by doctors and nurses are correctly filled and dispensed. This helps to ensure that the patient is receiving the best possible care.
Lastly, pharmacy technicians can gain experience in a wide range of areas. They can gain experience in inventory management, customer service, data entry, and more. This experience can help you become a more valuable asset to employers and provide you with a great knowledge base to apply to future jobs.
Takeaway
Pharmacy technicians’ expertise in medication handling, customer service, and inventory management makes them invaluable members of the pharmacy team. Ultimately, they play a crucial role in providing safe and effective medication to patients and ensuring that the pharmacy runs efficiently.
It is essential to ensure that pharmacy technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide the best possible service to patients. With the proper training and certification, pharmacy technicians can make a positive difference in patients’ lives.
Are you interested in pharmacy technician training? Choose Northwest Suburban College, a health sciences college near Schaumburg, IL. Apply online now!
