what do pharmacy techs do
Pharmacy technicians play an important role in the healthcare industry by providing support to pharmacists and working directly with patients. While their job duties may vary depending on their specific position and place of employment, there are some common tasks that pharmacy techs perform on a daily basis. In this blog post, we will explore what pharmacy techs do, from stocking shelves and counting pills to interacting with patients and entering data into computer systems.
The many duties of pharmacy technicians
As a pharmacy technician, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks. You will need to be able to accurately measure and mix medications, as well as count pills and capsules. You will also be responsible for keeping track of inventory and ordering supplies as needed. In addition, you will be expected to assist pharmacists in providing customer service and answering questions.
Pharmacy technicians have a variety of duties. They may dispense medications, compound medications, answer customer questions, process insurance claims, and perform administrative tasks.
Some pharmacy technicians specialize in a certain area, such as compounding or insurance processing. Others may work in a retail setting, while others may work in a hospital or clinic. No matter what setting they work in, pharmacy technicians play an important role in the healthcare team.
The training and education required to become a pharmacy technician
In order to become a pharmacy technician, one must complete a training program and pass a certification exam. There are many pharmacy technician training programs available, both online and in-person. Many community colleges offer certification programs that take about two years to complete.
After completing a training program and passing the certification exam, pharmacy technicians must maintain their registration by completing continuing education credits every year. Pharmacy technicians can find continuing education opportunities through professional organizations, such as the National Pharmacy Technician Association, or online courses.
The different types of pharmacy settings in which technicians can work
There are many different types of pharmacy settings in which technicians can work. The most common type of pharmacy is the retail pharmacy, which is found in most drugstores. These pharmacies usually have a staff of one or two pharmacists and several technicians. The pharmacists dispense medications and provide customer service, while the technicians fill prescriptions and perform other duties as needed.
Other types of pharmacies include hospital pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, and compounding pharmacies. Hospital pharmacies are found in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Mail-order pharmacies are companies that ship medications to customers through the mail. Compounding pharmacies specialize in preparing customized medications for patients.
The outlook for pharmacy technician jobs in the future
As the healthcare industry continues to grow, so does the demand for qualified pharmacy technicians. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job opportunities for pharmacy technicians will increase by 12% from 2018 to 2028—faster than the average for all occupations.1
With an aging population and advances in pharmaceutical research, the demand for prescription medications is expected to continue to rise. This increase in demand will likely lead to more job openings for pharmacy technicians in hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies.
If you’re thinking about a career as a pharmacy technician, now is a good time to start training. With a little effort, you can find a rewarding career with good job security and prospects for advancement.
Conclusion
Becoming a pharmacy technician is a great way to start a career in the medical field. Pharmacy technicians play an important role in assisting pharmacists and healthcare professionals in dispensing medications and providing patient care. If you are interested in becoming a pharmacy technician, we encourage you to research training programs in your area and take the necessary steps to become certified.
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