In early 2007, ABC News broadcast several investigative reports related to pharmacy technicians and medication errors. The news was sobering, exposing regulatory issues that must be addressed by the health care community.
According to the National Pharmacy Technician Association, the majority of state boards of pharmacy do not require any standardized training to become a pharmacy tech. That's why the nonprofit organization is working to improve the standards and professional requirements for practicing as a pharmacy tech.
If you want to ensure patient safety and enhance pharmaceutical care, be sure to complete these three steps before practicing as a pharmacy tech:
1. Complete a pharmacy tech training program.
To become a competent pharmacy tech, you should complete a standardized, accredited training program prior to working in a pharmacy. Your pharmacy tech training might take the form of a diploma, certificate, or associate degree program. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists accredits such programs.
Pharmacy tech training programs consist of classroom and lab work in pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy law and ethics, pharmacy recordkeeping, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmaceutical and medical terminology. You'll also need to learn medication names, actions, uses, and doses. Pharmacy tech training programs typically include an internship in order for you to gain practical experience in an actual pharmacy.
2. Pursue pharmacy technician certification.
Once you complete your training program, pursue pharmacy technician certification. After all, passing a standardized, competency-based pharmacy tech exam will provide proof of the body of knowledge and skills you've acquired
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board administers the Pharmacy Technician Certification program, which is accredited by the National Organization for Competency Assurance. Once you pass the exam, you bear the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). Many employers will reimburse the costs of the exam as an incentive for you to get certified. To maintain pharmacy technician certification, you must complete 20 continuing education hours every two years.
3. Register with your state board of pharmacy.
Though not mandatory, it's important to register with your state board of pharmacy, as it can provide oversight and monitoring for the pharmacy tech profession. If your state does not currently register pharmacy technicians, contact your board to urge them to start registering pharmacy techs in order to safeguard the profession.
Don't settle for a bad rep. Pursue the proper training, certification, and registration, and launch your pharmacy tech career the right way.
About the author:
Robyn Tellefsen is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.
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