The Rise of Certified Pharmacy Technicians in America
In recent years, the demand for healthcare professionals has skyrocketed, with pharmacy technicians emerging as a vital part of the healthcare workforce. With the increasing complexity of medications and the growing number of patients, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians has become more pressing than ever.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services, particularly in hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies.
The Benefits of a Career as a Certified Pharmacy Technician
The Benefits of a Career as a Certified Pharmacy Technician
As a certified pharmacy technician, you'll play a critical role in the healthcare system, working closely with pharmacists to dispense medications and provide patient care. Here are some benefits of a career as a certified pharmacy technician:
- Competitive salary range: $33,000 to $52,000 per year, depending on location and experience
- Job security and stability: Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, with many job openings available
- Opportunities for advancement: With experience, you can move into supervisory or leadership roles or pursue specialized certifications
- Flexibility: Many pharmacies offer part-time or flexible scheduling options, allowing you to balance work and personal life
- Personal satisfaction: As a certified pharmacy technician, you'll make a difference in the lives of patients, helping them manage their medications and navigate the healthcare system
Pursuing a Career as a Certified Pharmacy Technician Requires 5 Key Steps
To become a certified pharmacy technician, you'll need to follow these 5 steps:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a pharmacy technician, you'll need to meet the basic requirements, which include:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required; some employers may prefer a degree in pharmacy technology or a related field
- Certification: You'll need to obtain a certification from a recognized organization, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
Step 2: Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Program
To become a certified pharmacy technician, you'll need to enroll in a pharmacy technician program approved by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These programs typically include classroom instruction and clinical training.
Step 3: Pass the Certification Examination
After completing your training program, you'll be eligible to take the certification examination offered by the PTCB or NHA. The examination will assess your knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Pharmacy law and regulations
- Pharmacy operations and management
- Pharmacology and toxicology
- Pharmacy calculation and measurement
Step 4: Maintain Your Certification
To maintain your certification, you'll need to complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the certification body's code of ethics. You may also be required to renew your certification every 2 years.
Step 5: Pursue Specialized Certifications
With experience, you can pursue specialized certifications, such as:
- Compounded sterile preparations (CSP) certification
- Pharmacy technician specialist (PTS) certification
- Pharmacy technician supervisor (PTS) certification
Looking Ahead at the Future of Certified Pharmacy Technicians
The demand for certified pharmacy technicians is expected to continue growing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 4% increase in employment from 2020 to 2030. As a certified pharmacy technician, you'll be in a position to take advantage of this growth and pursue a rewarding and challenging career in the healthcare industry.
Next Steps
If you're interested in becoming a certified pharmacy technician, start by researching pharmacy technician programs and certification requirements. You can also contact local pharmacies or healthcare organizations to learn more about job opportunities and required qualifications.
