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How to Get a Pharmacy Tech Certificate in 2020. Are you interested in becoming a pharmacy technician?
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Introduction
A pharmacy technician certificate program typically takes about a year to complete and is offered by community colleges, technical schools, and Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)-approved online programs. Some certificate programs may be completed in as little as four months.
What is a pharmacy technician?
A pharmacy technician is a member of the pharmacy team who works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to help provide patients with the medications they need. Pharmacy technicians typically have an associate’s degree or pharmacy technician certificate.
Duties of a pharmacy technician
A pharmacy technician is a health care worker who performs tasks such as counting and measuring medications, mixing IV solutions, entering patient information into computers, and maintaining patient records. They also work with pharmacists to fill prescription orders. Most pharmacy technicians work in retail pharmacies, but they may also work in hospitals, nursing homes, the armed forces, mail-order pharmacies, or pharmaceutical companies.
In order to become a pharmacy technician, one must typically complete a postsecondary education program that has been accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). These programs typically take between one and two years to complete and often result in a certificate or diploma. Some states also require pharmacy technicians to be licensed.
Education and training requirements
Most pharmacy technician programs offer classroom, laboratory, and clinical experience in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, community pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies. Although the majority of programs last between 1 and 2 years, some accelerated programs can be completed in as little as 9 months.
Pharmacy technicians who are interested in becoming certified can take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a formal training program or have on-the-job training experience, and pass a criminal background check.
Certification
There are various ways to become a certified pharmacy technician. One way is to earn a certificate from a pharmacy technician training program. These programs, which usually last about six months, can be found at community colleges, technical schools, and vocational schools.
How to get a pharmacy tech certificate
Many people choose to become pharmacy technicians because it is a stable career with good job prospects. If you are considering a career in pharmacy technology, you may be wondering how to get a pharmacy tech certificate. The process is not as difficult as you may think. In this article, we will walk you through the steps of how to get a pharmacy tech certificate.
Online programs
While most pharmacy tech programs are offered in person, there are a number of online programs that can offer the same level of education and training. These online programs are offered by a number of different colleges and universities, and they can be a good option for those who cannot attend an in-person program or who want to complete their education at their own pace.
Before enrolling in an online pharmacy tech program, it is important to make sure that the program is accredited by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). These organizations oversee the certification process for pharmacy technicians and ensure that only those who have completed an accredited program are eligible to take the certification exam. Once you have completed an accredited program, you will be able to take the PTCB or NHA exam and become a certified pharmacy technician.
Community colleges
Community colleges are a great place to start if you’re interested in becoming a pharmacy technician. Many of these schools offer certification programs that can be completed in as little as one semester. Some programs may even offer internship opportunities that can give you hands-on experience in the field.
The cost of these programs can vary, but they are typically very affordable when compared to other types of training. Community college courses also tend to be more flexible, which can be helpful if you’re trying to balance work and family obligations.
Once you’ve completed a pharmacy technician program, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam before you can start working in most states. The cost of the exam is usually around $200, and you’ll need to renew your certification every two years.
Hospital training programs
Hospital training programs are the most common way to become a pharmacy technician. Most programs require you to work in the hospital pharmacy for a certain number of hours, and then you’re allowed to take the certification exam. The number of hours required varies by state, but it’s usually between on-the-job training and a full-time work schedule.
Conclusion
There are many ways to get a pharmacy tech certificate. You can attend a traditional college or university, an online school, or a vocational training program. No matter which route you choose, make sure the program is accredited by the National Commission for Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (NCPCT) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). With hard work and dedication, you can earn your certificate and begin a career in healthcare!
