Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare but unsure of where to start? Becoming a pharmacy technician could be the perfect entry point for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to kickstart your career as a pharmacy technician.
What is a Pharmacy Technician?
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications to patients. They also perform various administrative tasks, such as managing inventory and interacting with customers. Pharmacy technicians work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
Education and Training
While a high school diploma or GED is typically the only educational requirement to become a pharmacy technician, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions. Topics covered in these programs typically include pharmacy law, medications, calculations, and pharmacy operations.
Certification and Licensure
Although certification is not always required to work as a pharmacy technician, becoming certified can enhance your job prospects and earning potential. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) are two organizations that offer certification exams for pharmacy technicians. Some states also require pharmacy technicians to obtain a license.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for pharmacy technicians is strong, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2018 to 2028. The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $33,950 in May 2019. Factors such as location, experience, and certification can impact a pharmacy technician’s salary.
As a content writer, researching and writing this blog post on becoming a pharmacy technician has been eye-opening. I was able to learn about the different educational and certification requirements, as well as the job outlook and salary potential for pharmacy technicians. I hope this guide has provided you with valuable information to help you pursue a career in this rewarding field.
Conclusion
Are you ready to take the first step towards becoming a pharmacy technician? Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to make a career change, this guide has equipped you with the knowledge you need to succeed in this growing field. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experience as a pharmacy technician, feel free to leave a comment below!