Are you interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician? Becoming a pharmacy tech can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path for those interested in the healthcare industry. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps you need to take to become a pharmacy tech, including the necessary education and certification requirements.
Many people are drawn to becoming a pharmacy tech because of the stable job outlook, competitive salary, and the opportunity to work in a healthcare setting. However, navigating the process of becoming a pharmacy tech can be confusing and overwhelming. From education requirements to certification exams, there are many steps to take to launch your career as a pharmacy tech.
The first step to becoming a pharmacy tech is to complete an accredited pharmacy technician program. These programs typically take around one year to complete and provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a pharmacy tech. After completing a program, you’ll need to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) to become certified.
In summary, to become a pharmacy tech, you’ll need to complete an accredited pharmacy technician program and pass a certification exam. Here are some additional tips to help you on your journey:
Tips for Becoming a Pharmacy Tech
When I was first starting out as a pharmacy tech, I found it helpful to network with other professionals in the field. Joining a professional organization or attending industry events can help you meet other pharmacy techs and learn about job opportunities.
Education and Certification Requirements
As mentioned earlier, completing an accredited pharmacy technician program is a key step in becoming a pharmacy tech. These programs typically cover topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and medication safety. After completing a program, you’ll need to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) to become certified.
Becoming Certified
To become certified as a pharmacy tech, you’ll need to pass either the PTCE or ExCPT exam. These exams test your knowledge of pharmacy law, pharmacology, and medication safety. Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be able to apply for certification through organizations such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Job Outlook and Salary
The job outlook for pharmacy techs is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 7% job growth rate from 2019-2029. The median annual salary for pharmacy techs is $33,950, with the highest 10% earning more than $49,130 per year.
Personal Experience
When I first started out as a pharmacy tech, I was nervous about the certification exam. However, I found that studying with a group of other pharmacy techs helped me feel more confident and prepared. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other professionals in the field for support!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What education do I need to become a pharmacy tech?
A: You’ll need to complete an accredited pharmacy technician program to become a pharmacy tech.
Q: What certification do I need to become a pharmacy tech?
A: You’ll need to pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) to become certified as a pharmacy tech.
Q: How much does a pharmacy tech make per year?
A: The median annual salary for pharmacy techs is $33,950, with the highest 10% earning more than $49,130 per year.
Q: What is the job outlook for pharmacy techs?
A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% job growth rate for pharmacy techs from 2019-2029.
Conclusion of How to Become a Pharmacy Tech
Becoming a pharmacy tech can be a fulfilling and rewarding career path for those interested in the healthcare industry. By completing an accredited pharmacy technician program and passing a certification exam, you can launch your career as a pharmacy tech. Remember to network with other professionals in the field and don’t be afraid to reach out for support as you navigate this process. Good luck on your journey to becoming a pharmacy tech!
