How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

Key Summary

Why Is This The Right Time For This Role?

Despite a lot of pharmacies closing in the US, the demand for pharmacy technicians is on the rise, due to an aging population, vaccination clinics, and e-prescribing. 

Not to mention that once you gain some experience, you can earn up to $43,460 per year or $20.90 per hour, and these numbers are only going to rise. 

What Does A Pharmacy Technician Do?

As a pharmacy technician, you’ll be working under the guidance of a licensed pharmacist to perform the following duties:

• Preparing and measuring medications 
• Compounding medications
• Managing inventory and ordering supplies
• Liaise between the customer and the pharmacist 
• Labeling and packaging prescriptions 
• Processing insurance claims and maintaining patient records
• Processing payments for medications
• Providing excellent customer service to patients

6 Steps To Becoming A Pharmacy Technician?

Step 1: Gain a High School Diploma or Equivalent

Most pharmacy technician programs and employers require candidates to have a high school diploma or GED. 

So, make sure you meet this requirement. 

Step 2: Enroll in an Accredited program

Enroll in a reputable pharmacy technician training program. These programs typically last anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the format (in-person or online) and the level of training provided.

The CCI Training Center’s Pharmacy Technician Training Program is 100% online and gets you exam-ready within 25 weeks. 

Step 3: Gain Hands-on Experience (Externship)

Many pharmacy technician programs include career services. This allows you to apply the knowledge and skills you have learned in an actual pharmacy setting under the guidance of experienced professionals.

With CCI Training Center’s course, students will participate in an externship at an approved medical facility. 

Step 4: Obtain Certification (Optional)

Consider obtaining certification as a pharmacy tech. While it may not be mandatory, it can significantly enhance your job prospects and earning potential. Prepare for and pass the certification exam offered by the PTCB or NHA.

Step 5: Take the PTCE or ExCPT Certification exam

After successfully completing the training program, you’ll be ready for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) offered through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Step 6: Apply For A Job

Once you’ve passed the exam and received your certification, you can start applying for jobs on portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, and other job portals.

What Are The Qualifications Of A Pharmacy Technician?

To become a pharmacy tech, certain qualifications are required. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the state or employer, here are the general requirements you should meet:

What Soft Skills are Required to be a Pharmacy Technician?

Strong Attention to Detail

Pharmacy techs must have excellent attention to detail to ensure the accuracy of medication orders and patient information.

Good Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential in a pharmacy setting, as techs need to interact with both patients and healthcare professionals.

Ethical and Professional Conduct

Pharmacy techs handle sensitive medical information and must maintain patient confidentiality. They should also act professionally and with honesty in their work.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Pharmacy Technician?

It can take anywhere from 5 months to 2 years to become a pharma tech, depending on your training provider. 

At CCI Training Center, we ensure you get exam-ready in 25 weeks. 

Why Become a Pharmacy Technician?

Choosing a career as a pharma tech can offer many benefits, including:

• Strong Job Security and Growth: As mentioned above, the demand for pharmacy technicians is rising, making this a stable career option.
• Quick Entry and Affordable Education: You can become qualified in under a year through certificate programs, which are generally more affordable than traditional college degrees. This allows for a faster start to your career and less financial burden.
• Flexible Work Environments and Schedules: Pharmacy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and mail-order facilities. Many positions offer flexible hours, including part-time, evenings, and weekends, making it easier to balance work with other commitments.
• Opportunities for Advancement: With experience and additional certifications, pharmacy technicians can advance to supervisory roles, specialize in areas like compounding or sterile products, or even pursue further education to become pharmacists.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a pharmacy technician can open up a world of opportunities in the healthcare field. By following the steps in this blog post, you can start your journey towards a satisfying career. Remember to stay updated on industry trends and regulations, as continuing education is crucial in this field.

If you’re looking for a wonderful pharmacy technician training program, consider CCI Training Center. They offer a comprehensive program that covers all the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a pharmacy tech. Additionally, CCI Training Center provides financial aid options, quick program formats, flexibility in scheduling, instructor-led online classes, instructor support, and career services to help you on your path to success.

So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards a satisfying career as a pharmacy technician today!