Pharmacy Technicians
Licensed pharmacists depend on pharmacy technicians to assist them in routine tasks. Pharmacy technicians help to prescribe medications, count tablets, and label bottles. Customer service is an important aspect of the job, as well. Any questions regarding pharmaceuticals are referred to the attending pharmacist.
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Specifics of the Job
Pharmacy technicians differ from pharmacy aides. Aides typically perform clerical duties, like answering the phones or stocking shelves. Technicians perform more complex tasks. However, in some states these jobs may overlap. Technicians who work in retail and mail order pharmacies are responsible for a variety of tasks, which tend to vary according to state regulations. Once a prescription is received, all information is verified. The technician then locates the medication and counts it, weighs it, or mixes it. He must then select the appropriate container, prepare the label, price it and file it. All prescriptions must be checked by the pharmacist before being given to the patient. Additional duties include maintenance of patient profiles, stocking of shelves, and preparation of insurance claim forms. Pharmacy technicians who work in nursing homes and hospitals have additional responsibilities. They must review a patient’s chart, prepare medications, and deliver them to the patient. They are also responsible for assembling each patient’s 24-hour medication supply. These supplies are packaged, labeled, and stocked for a pharmacist’s approval.
Necessary Qualifications
Pharmacy technicians commonly receive on-the-job training. However, employers are beginning to favor candidates with formal training or certification. Vocational or technical schools, community colleges, and some hospitals offer formal training programs. These programs entail formal classroom time and laboratory work. Subjects of study include medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmacy law and ethics, and pharmaceutical techniques. Many programs offer internships. Strong customer service and communication skills are beneficial for every pharmacy technician. Strong mathematical, reading, and spelling skills are also necessary. Technicians should be alert, observant, and precise. An incorrect prescription can sometimes mean life or death. Any individual with previous drug or substance abuse is not eligible for employment in this field. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board offers voluntary certification to any interested individuals. Requirements include a high school diploma, no felony record, and a passing score on the exam. Some employers will pay for certification. Re-certification is necessary every two years and requires that the technician take twenty hours of related coursework.
Earnings and Advancement
Earnings fall between $7.00 and $14.00 per hour. Most pharmacy technicians work forty hours per week. Some are required to work evenings or weekends; especially those employed by hospitals or other 24-hour operations. Advancement is limited in this field. Some technicians continue their education and become pharmacists.
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*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Pharmacy Technicians.
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copyright 2005
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