Are you interested in starting a career in the healthcare industry but don't want to go through years of schooling? Consider becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Florida. Not only is it a rewarding career path, but it also offers job security and opportunities for growth.
One pain point for those interested in becoming a pharmacy technician is navigating the certification process. It can be overwhelming to figure out the necessary steps and requirements to become certified, but it doesn't have to be.
To become a certified pharmacy technician in Florida, you must meet certain requirements set by the Florida Board of Pharmacy. These include completing a board-approved education and training program, passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), and passing a criminal background check.
In summary, to become a certified pharmacy technician in Florida, you must:
Education and Training
Completing a board-approved education and training program is the first step to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Florida. You can find approved programs at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions. These programs typically take anywhere from six months to a year to complete and cover topics such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmacy calculations.
Personally, I completed a pharmacy technician program at a local community college. It was a great option for me because it was affordable and offered hands-on training in a real pharmacy setting.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
After completing an approved education and training program, you must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). This exam is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and tests your knowledge of pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmacology.
Personally, I found the PTCE to be challenging, but with proper studying and preparation, it is definitely achievable. There are many study resources available, such as study guides and practice exams, to help you prepare.
Criminal Background Check
The final step to becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Florida is passing a criminal background check. This is to ensure that you do not have any prior convictions that would disqualify you from working in a pharmacy setting.
Continuing Education
After becoming certified, it is important to stay up to date with the latest developments in the pharmacy industry. This can be done through continuing education courses, conferences, and workshops. Not only does this help you stay informed, but it also shows your dedication to your profession and can lead to opportunities for career advancement.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is promising, with a projected job growth of 4% from 2019-2029 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, the average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Florida is $33,070.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take to become a certified pharmacy technician in Florida?
A: It typically takes anywhere from six months to a year to complete a board-approved education and training program and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
Q: Is certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in Florida?
A: While certification is not technically required by law in Florida, many employers require it for employment. Additionally, becoming certified can lead to higher pay and more opportunities for career advancement.
Q: Can I take the PTCE more than once if I do not pass on the first try?
A: Yes, you can take the PTCE up to four times in a year. However, there is a waiting period between attempts and a fee associated with each attempt.
Q: What are some skills that are necessary to be a successful pharmacy technician?
A: Some skills that are necessary for success as a pharmacy technician include attention to detail, strong communication skills, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Florida is a great way to start a career in the healthcare industry without years of schooling. By completing a board-approved education and training program, passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), and passing a criminal background check, you can become certified and begin your career as a pharmacy technician. With a promising job outlook and opportunities for career advancement, it is definitely worth considering if you are interested in a healthcare career.
