Pharmacy Technician Certification: Requirements and Benefits Schools and Training

Becoming a pharmacy technician is a fulfilling career path within the healthcare field. This article explores the process of pharmacy technician certification, outlining the requirements, benefits, and training programs available. By understanding the steps involved, aspiring technicians can make informed decisions about their education and career goals. We will explore the paths to Pharmacy Technician Certification: Requirements and Benefits Schools and Training provide.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician assists licensed pharmacists with dispensing prescription medications and providing customer service. Their duties often include receiving prescription requests, measuring and mixing medications, labeling containers, managing inventory, and processing insurance claims. They work under the supervision of a pharmacist and play a crucial role in ensuring patients receive the correct medications. Certification demonstrates a technician's competency and adherence to professional standards.

Pharmacy Technician Certification: Requirements

To become a certified pharmacy technician, candidates typically need to meet specific requirements that vary by state. However, some common prerequisites include:

  • Age: Most states require candidates to be at least 18 years old.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required.
  • Training: Completion of a formal pharmacy technician training program is often necessary. These programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some pharmacies.
  • Examination: Passing a national certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the ExCPT exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is usually mandatory.
  • Background Check: A criminal background check is usually required for licensure.
  • Continuing Education: Certified technicians must complete continuing education credits to maintain their certification.

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs: Schools and Curriculum

Pharmacy technician training programs provide the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. These programs typically cover the following topics:

  • Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding federal and state regulations related to pharmacy practice.
  • Medical Terminology: Learning the language of healthcare professionals.
  • Pharmacology: Studying the effects of drugs on the body.
  • Pharmaceutical Calculations: Performing calculations necessary for preparing medications.
  • Dispensing Procedures: Learning the proper techniques for dispensing prescriptions.
  • Inventory Management: Managing medication inventory and ordering supplies.
  • Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service to patients.
  • Sterile Compounding: Preparing sterile medications, such as intravenous solutions (some programs).

Pharmacy Technician Certification: Requirements and Benefits Schools and Training programs can vary in length and format, with options for classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on experience through internships or externships. Choosing an accredited program is important to ensure quality education and to meet eligibility requirements for certification exams.

Benefits of Pharmacy Technician Certification

Obtaining pharmacy technician certification offers many benefits, including:

  • Increased Job Opportunities: Certified technicians are often preferred by employers and may have access to a wider range of job opportunities.
  • Higher Earning Potential: Certification can lead to higher salaries and hourly wages.
  • Professional Recognition: Certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence and adherence to professional standards.
  • Enhanced Knowledge and Skills: Certification ensures technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely and effectively.
  • Career Advancement: Certification can open doors to career advancement opportunities, such as supervisory roles or specialized positions.
  • National Portability: National certification, like that offered by PTCB, makes it easier to transfer credentials to other states.
  • Job Security: Certification adds security to technicians career paths.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exams: PTCE vs. ExCPT

The two primary certification exams for pharmacy technicians are the PTCE, administered by the PTCB, and the ExCPT, administered by the NHA. Both exams assess a candidate's knowledge and skills in areas such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, medication safety, and dispensing procedures.

  • PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam): This exam is widely recognized and accepted by employers and state boards of pharmacy. The PTCB offers various resources to aid in exam preparation.
  • ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians): This exam is also nationally accredited and accepted in many states. The NHA provides study materials and practice exams to help candidates prepare.

Choosing which exam to take may depend on state requirements, employer preferences, and individual circumstances. It's crucial to research the acceptance of each exam in the relevant state and consider the available study resources.

State Regulations for Pharmacy Technicians

State regulations for pharmacy technicians vary considerably. Some states require registration or licensure, while others do not. Requirements for training, certification, and continuing education also differ. Aspiring technicians should consult their state board of pharmacy's website for specific requirements. For instance, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) provides links to state boards of pharmacy. Some states require national certification from PTCB or NHA to become state-registered.

Job Outlook and Salary Expectations

The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is projected to grow in the coming years. Factors such as the aging population and increased demand for prescription medications contribute to this growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $37,790 in May 2022. Salary can vary based on experience, education, certification, and location.

Continuing Education for Certified Pharmacy Technicians

Maintaining pharmacy technician certification requires completing continuing education (CE) credits. The number of CE hours required and the specific topics covered vary by certifying body and state regulations. CE courses can be taken online, in person, or through professional organizations. Common CE topics include medication safety, pharmacy law updates, and new drug therapies. It's important for certified technicians to track their CE credits and ensure they meet all requirements for recertification.

For those interested in healthcare careers, several related paths can be explored. These include roles such as medical assistants, medical coders, and pharmacy assistants (roles without technician responsibilities). Each career path offers unique opportunities and requires different training and certification. Researching these options can help individuals find a career that aligns with their interests and skills.