Thinking about becoming a pharmacy technician but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. Many people are drawn to the role because it’s a rewarding job in healthcare. But how do you become a pharmacy technician, and what do you need to get there?
Therefore, in this blog, we will explain what you need to do, from gaining qualifications to securing a job in this field.
What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?
Before we get into the details of how to become a pharmacy technician, it’s essential to understand the role itself. These professionals work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Their responsibilities include:
- Preparing and dispensing medications
- Managing inventory and restocking shelves
- Maintaining patient records
- Answering customer queries and providing general support
They play a vital role in making sure patients receive their medications safely and efficiently. Thus, attention to detail, organisation, and good communication skills are essential for this role.
How Do I Become a Pharmacy Technician?
Now that you know what pharmacy technicians do, how do you become one? The process involves education, certification, and gaining hands-on experience. Here is a breakdown of the steps you need to follow:
Complete Your Education
The first step to becoming a pharmacy technician is completing the necessary education. In most cases, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. While this may seem like a simple step, it is essential, as you cannot advance without it.
Moreover, some candidates choose to pursue further education through a pharmacy technician course. These courses can be found at colleges, universities, or even online. They provide detailed training in areas such as pharmacology, ethics, and practical skills needed on the job. In fact, you can take a course from the Unified Course at a very affordable price.
Gain Certification
After completing your education, you may need to become certified. Certification requirements vary depending on where you live, but many employers prefer to hire certified experts. Certification is an added proof of your skills and knowledge in the field.
You can usually achieve certification through an exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. These exams cover a wide range of topics, including medication safety, pharmacy law, and more. Passing these exams ensures that you meet the minimum standards required to work as a professional.
On-the-Job Training
Once you’ve completed your education and certification, the next step is to gain experience through on-the-job training. Many pharmacy experts learn a lot of what they need to know through hands-on work. During this time, you’ll work closely with licensed pharmacists, learning how to manage prescriptions, handle medications, and interact with patients.
This experience is invaluable, as it allows you to apply the knowledge gained during your studies in a real-world setting. Moreover, you will have the chance to refine your skills and get comfortable with the day-to-day tasks of the job.
Build Your Soft Skills
In addition to technical knowledge, a successful pharmacy technician needs strong interpersonal skills. As a pharmacy expert, you will often deal with customers and patients, which means that clear communication and a friendly attitude are important. You’ll also need to be detail-oriented, as even a small mistake in medication dispensing can have serious consequences. Therefore, during your training and early career, you should focus on developing the following skills:
- Attention to detail: Ensuring accuracy when preparing and dispensing medications.
- Communication: Interacting with customers, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.
- Time management: Handling multiple tasks while ensuring patients receive their medications on time.
Find a Job as a Pharmacy Technician
The final step in becoming a pharmacy technician is securing a job. Once you have your certification and some experience, you can begin applying for positions in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The demand for skilled professionals continues to grow, so you’ll likely find opportunities in various settings.
However, don’t forget to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your education, certification, and skills. Employers will want to see that you are qualified and ready to contribute to their team.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
You may be wondering about the specific qualifications required to become a pharmacy technician. While requirements can vary by region, most employers look for the following:
- High school diploma: A basic requirement for entry-level positions.
- Certification: Although not always mandatory, it is highly recommended.
- Experience: Many employers prefer candidates with some practical experience, even if gained through internships or training programs.
Some of them also choose to pursue additional education, such as an associate degree in pharmacy technology. This is not always necessary but can be beneficial if you wish to advance your career or take on more specialised roles in the future.
The Role of Continuing Education
Pharmacy technicians must stay updated on the latest developments in the pharmaceutical field. Therefore, continuing education is often required, especially if you hold a certification. This can involve taking additional courses or attending workshops that help you stay current with new medications, procedures, and technologies.
Moreover, keeping up with continuing education can improve your career prospects, as it demonstrates your commitment to the field and helps you stay competitive in the job market.
Key Skills for Pharmacy Technicians
Pharmacy technicians must develop a variety of skills to succeed. These include both technical and soft skills, which will help you perform your job effectively. Here are some key skills to focus on:
- Organisation: You will need to manage medications, prescriptions, and patient records, which requires excellent organisational skills.
- Mathematics: Being able to calculate dosages accurately is critical in this role, especially when dealing with sensitive medications.
- Customer service: Many of the experts work directly with the public, so being able to provide clear and compassionate service is essential.
- Problem-solving: They often need to think on their feet, particularly when handling prescriptions or dealing with inventory issues.
These skills can be developed through a combination of education, certification, and on-the-job experience.
Conclusion
So, how do you become a pharmacy technician? It’s a process that involves education, certification, and hands-on training. While the path may seem long, it is a rewarding career for those who want to work in healthcare but don’t necessarily want to become a pharmacist. These professionals are in demand, and with the right skills and qualifications, you can start a stable and fulfilling career.
If you’re considering becoming a pharmacy technician, now is a great time to start. By following the steps outlined here and with the help of Unified Course , you’ll be well on your way to entering the field.
