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Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technicians work as support personnel under the immediate supervision of pharmacists. Duties include prepacking of tablets and capsules, assisting the pharmacist in filling pharmacy requisitions, maintaining records and files, and typing labels. The technician may be in charge of ordering, receiving, and keeping current inventory of all medication as it is used. This person is also in charge of seeing that sufficient medication is on hand to meet projected needs in the hospital.
This position requires knowledge of basic math, algebra, and grammar. One must have the ability to follow directions accurately, be detailed oriented, and have a high aptitude for learning. Customer service is a priority in most employment setting, so Pharmacy Technicians must have strong communication skills and a genuine interest in helping people.
A physical examination and drug screening are often required for Pharmacy Technician students. Pharmaceuticals are controlled substance, so a background check may also be required.
Two methods of training are short term certification programs and on-the-job training. Individuals who have previous pharmaceutical coursework, for instance a pharmacy student, are the most likely candidates for on-the-job training Community colleges, vocational technical schools, hospitals, and retail pharmacies are the primary sources for training.
- Less than 2 years
- 2 year Associates Degree
Hospitals, health maintenance organizations, and retail outlets employ Pharmacy Technicians. This is a good career step for pharmacy students to take as they progress through school. Practical experience and personal references can be side benefits of working in this capacity.
$20,654
*NATIONAL MEDIAN SALARIES CITED COURTESY OF ONE OF THE FOLLOWING SOURCES:
- UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF LABOR OR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
- 2003 ASHA Omnibus Survey
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