Becoming a certified pharmacy technician can be a great career choice if you are interested in the healthcare industry. However, you may be wondering how long it takes to become certified and what the process entails. In this blog post, we will discuss the time it takes to become a certified pharmacy technician and everything you need to know about the process.
One of the main pain points when it comes to becoming a certified pharmacy technician is the amount of time it takes to complete the certification process. Many individuals may feel discouraged by the length of the process or may not have a clear understanding of what it entails.
The process of becoming a certified pharmacy technician typically takes about a year. This includes completing a pharmacy technician program, gaining hands-on experience through an internship, and passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The length of the program can vary depending on the institution and whether it is completed full-time or part-time.
In summary, becoming a certified pharmacy technician takes about a year and requires completion of a pharmacy technician program, an internship, and passing the PTCE. It is important to note that the time it takes to complete the program can vary and may depend on the individual's schedule and availability.
What Is a Pharmacy Technician Program?
Pharmacy technician programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful pharmacy technician. These programs typically cover topics such as prescription processing, drug classifications, and pharmacy law and ethics. They can be completed at community colleges, vocational schools, or online.
Personally, I completed my pharmacy technician program at a local community college. The program took about 9 months to complete and included both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in a pharmacy setting. The program was intensive, but it provided me with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a certified pharmacy technician.
What Is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)?
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is a nationally recognized certification exam that is required in order to become a certified pharmacy technician. The exam is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that cover a variety of topics related to pharmacy technician practice.
Personally, I found the PTCE to be challenging but manageable. I prepared for the exam by studying the exam content outline provided by the PTCB and taking practice exams. It is important to note that passing the PTCE is required in order to become a certified pharmacy technician.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician?
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician can provide a variety of benefits. First and foremost, it allows individuals to work in the healthcare industry and make a positive impact on patients' lives. Additionally, certified pharmacy technicians typically earn higher salaries and have more job opportunities than non-certified technicians.
How Can You Prepare for a Career as a Certified Pharmacy Technician?
If you are interested in becoming a certified pharmacy technician, there are several steps you can take to prepare for a career in this field. First, you can research pharmacy technician programs in your area and select one that fits your schedule and needs. Second, you can gain hands-on experience by completing an internship or volunteer work in a pharmacy setting. Lastly, you can prepare for the PTCE by studying the exam content outline and taking practice exams.
Personal Experience
During my time as a certified pharmacy technician, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including retail, hospital, and long-term care pharmacies. Each setting has its own unique challenges, but I have found that the skills and knowledge I gained through my pharmacy technician program and certification have been invaluable in each setting.
Question and Answer
Q: Can you become a certified pharmacy technician without completing a pharmacy technician program?
A: No, completion of a pharmacy technician program is required in order to become a certified pharmacy technician.
Q: Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in a pharmacy technician program?
A: Prerequisites vary by program, but many programs require a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of certain prerequisite courses, such as math and science.
Q: Is the PTCE difficult to pass?
A: The difficulty of the PTCE can vary depending on the individual's knowledge and preparation. However, studying the exam content outline and taking practice exams can help prepare individuals for the exam.
Q: Is certification required in order to work as a pharmacy technician?
A: Certification is not always required to work as a pharmacy technician, but it can provide individuals with more job opportunities and higher salaries.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified pharmacy technician takes about a year and requires completion of a pharmacy technician program, an internship, and passing the PTCE. Although the process may seem daunting, it can provide individuals with a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. By completing a pharmacy technician program, gaining hands-on experience, and passing the PTCE, individuals can become certified and make a positive impact on patients' lives.
