Are you interested in healthcare and want to work in a fast-paced environment? Becoming a pharmacy technician at CVS might be the perfect fit for you. CVS is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, with over 9,900 stores. As a pharmacy technician at CVS, you will work closely with pharmacists to provide excellent customer service and ensure patients receive their medications safely and efficiently. Here's everything you need to know about how to become a pharmacy technician at CVS.
Working as a pharmacy technician can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. You may encounter difficult customers or have to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. However, the satisfaction of helping patients and playing a vital role in their healthcare can make it all worth it. As a pharmacy technician at CVS, you will be responsible for tasks such as counting and dispensing medications, answering patient questions, and managing inventory.
The first step in becoming a pharmacy technician at CVS is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, you will need to complete a pharmacy technician training program. CVS offers its own training program, which you can complete online or in-person. The program includes modules on topics such as medication safety, pharmacy law and regulations, and customer service. Once you complete the program, you will be eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
To summarize, becoming a pharmacy technician at CVS involves obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, completing CVS's pharmacy technician training program, and passing the PTCE. Once you have completed these steps, you can apply for a job at CVS as a pharmacy technician.
Experience of a CVS Pharmacy Technician
As a former pharmacy technician at CVS, I can attest to the challenges and rewards of the job. One of the biggest challenges is managing multiple tasks at once. You may be counting pills for one patient while answering a phone call and helping another patient at the same time. However, the ability to multitask is a valuable skill that can be applied to many other areas of life.
In addition to multitasking, strong communication skills are essential as a pharmacy technician. You will be interacting with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals on a daily basis. Being able to communicate effectively and empathetically can make a significant difference in a patient's experience.
Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician can open up new opportunities in your career. The PTCE is a nationally recognized certification that can demonstrate your knowledge and skills as a pharmacy technician. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. You will need to answer at least 650 out of 900 questions correctly to pass.
Continuing Education for Pharmacy Technicians
After becoming a certified pharmacy technician, you will need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education courses. This requirement ensures that pharmacy technicians stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and continue to provide excellent patient care.
How to Stand Out as a Pharmacy Technician
If you want to stand out as a pharmacy technician at CVS, there are several things you can do. First, always prioritize patient safety and satisfaction. Second, be proactive in your work and look for ways to improve processes or suggest new ideas. Finally, consider obtaining additional certifications or training to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
FAQs about Becoming a Pharmacy Technician at CVS
What are the requirements for becoming a pharmacy technician at CVS?
To become a pharmacy technician at CVS, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete CVS's pharmacy technician training program. You will also need to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
What is the salary for a pharmacy technician at CVS?
The average salary for a pharmacy technician at CVS is $14.26 per hour, according to Glassdoor. However, salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.
What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians?
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of pharmacy technicians will grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.
What skills are required to be a pharmacy technician at CVS?
Skills required to be a pharmacy technician at CVS include strong communication skills, attention to detail, multitasking abilities, and knowledge of medication safety and regulations.
Conclusion of How to Become a Pharmacy Technician at CVS
Becoming a pharmacy technician at CVS can be a fulfilling and challenging career path. By completing the necessary training and obtaining certification, you can play an essential role in providing excellent patient care and medication safety. Keep in mind that the job may require multitasking, effective communication, and ongoing education, but the rewards are well worth it.
