The demand for skilled pharmacy technicians has been on the rise in recent years, driven by an aging population, an increase in chronic diseases, and the growing need for healthcare services. As a result, pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities are actively seeking qualified pharmacy technicians to join their teams. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of pharmacy technician hiring, including the essential skills and qualifications required, the hiring process, and the future outlook for this profession.
Key Points
- Pharmacy technicians must possess strong communication and organizational skills to effectively interact with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.
- A postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology, such as a certificate or associate's degree, is highly recommended for those seeking to become pharmacy technicians.
- Pharmacy technicians must be certified or registered with the state in which they practice, with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offering the most widely recognized certification.
- The hiring process for pharmacy technicians typically involves a combination of interviews, skills assessments, and background checks to ensure that candidates possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and character to excel in this role.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of pharmacy technicians will grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations, but still offers a range of job opportunities for those interested in this field.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
To become a successful pharmacy technician, individuals must possess a combination of technical knowledge, communication skills, and personal qualities. Some of the essential skills and qualifications required for this role include:
- Technical knowledge: Pharmacy technicians must have a solid understanding of pharmacy operations, including medication dispensing, inventory management, and patient records.
- Communication skills: Effective communication is critical in this role, as pharmacy technicians must interact with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to provide excellent patient care.
- Organizational skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and maintain accurate records to ensure the smooth operation of the pharmacy.
- Certification or registration: Pharmacy technicians must be certified or registered with the state in which they practice, with the PTCB offering the most widely recognized certification.
Postsecondary Education Programs
While a postsecondary education program in pharmacy technology is not always required, it is highly recommended for those seeking to become pharmacy technicians. These programs, which can be completed in as little as a few months or as long as two years, provide students with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this role. Some of the topics covered in these programs include:
- Pharmacy law and ethics: Students learn about the laws and regulations governing pharmacy practice, as well as the ethical considerations that guide pharmacist and pharmacy technician behavior.
- Pharmacology: Students study the different types of medications, their uses, and their potential side effects.
- Pharmacy operations: Students learn about the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy, including medication dispensing, inventory management, and patient records.
| Program Type | Length | Credential Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate program | Several months to 1 year | Certificate |
| Associate's degree program | 2 years | Associate's degree |
The Hiring Process
The hiring process for pharmacy technicians typically involves a combination of interviews, skills assessments, and background checks to ensure that candidates possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and character to excel in this role. Some of the steps involved in the hiring process include:
- Initial screening: The employer reviews the candidate’s application and resume to ensure that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
- Interviews: The candidate participates in one or more interviews with the employer, which may be conducted in person, over the phone, or via video conference.
- Skills assessments: The candidate may be required to complete a skills assessment, such as a written exam or a practical demonstration of their technical skills.
- Background checks: The employer may conduct a background check to ensure that the candidate has a clean criminal record and is eligible to work in the United States.
Future Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of pharmacy technicians will grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, this still offers a range of job opportunities for those interested in this field. Some of the factors driving the demand for pharmacy technicians include:
- Aging population: As the population ages, there will be an increased demand for healthcare services, including pharmacy services.
- Chronic diseases: The rise in chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, will require more medication management and monitoring, which will drive the demand for pharmacy technicians.
- Advances in medication therapy: Advances in medication therapy, such as personalized medicine and gene therapy, will require more skilled pharmacy technicians to manage and monitor patient care.
What are the primary responsibilities of a pharmacy technician?
+The primary responsibilities of a pharmacy technician include assisting the pharmacist with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and maintaining patient records.
Do pharmacy technicians need to be certified or registered?
+Yes, pharmacy technicians must be certified or registered with the state in which they practice, with the PTCB offering the most widely recognized certification.
What is the average salary for a pharmacy technician?
+The average salary for a pharmacy technician varies depending on the location, employer, and level of experience, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians was $36,740 in May 2020.
In conclusion, pharmacy technician hiring is a complex process that requires a combination of technical knowledge, communication skills, and personal qualities. As the demand for skilled pharmacy technicians continues to grow, it is essential for individuals interested in this field to possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and character to excel in this role. By understanding the essential skills and qualifications required, the hiring process, and the future outlook for this profession, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths and prepare themselves for success in the field of pharmacy technology.
