Pharmacy Technician Job Description
Job Title: Pharmacy Technician
Overview/Summary of the Role:
A pharmacy technician works under the supervision of a registered pharmacist to provide patients with medication and related health care services. Their responsibilities include filling prescriptions, counting tablets, labeling medications, and providing customer service to patients.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Receive and screen prescription orders from patients or healthcare providers.
- Enter prescription data into the computer system.
- Measure, mix, package and label medication.
- Obtain medication from the pharmacy shelf or storage area and ensure that the drug is in good condition.
- Provide customer service to patients and answer their questions regarding medication use or side effects.
- Manage inventory by tracking medication levels and ordering supplies when necessary.
- Prepare and maintain patient profiles and medication records.
- Assist with billing and processing insurance claims for medication costs.
- Comply with legal and ethical pharmacy practice guidelines and standards.
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard Skills:
- Knowledge of medication and drug classifications.
- Familiarity with pharmacy law and regulations.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations for drug dosage.
- Proficient with pharmacy computer systems and software applications.
Soft Skills:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Education and Experience:
Required:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Completion of a pharmacy technician training program or on-the-job training.
- State certification or licensure as a pharmacy technician.
Preferred:
- Associates or Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy or a related field.
- Previous work experience in a pharmacy or healthcare setting.Licensing (if applicable):
Licensing requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by state. Some states require pharmacy technicians to be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) before they can work. Certification typically involves passing an exam and meeting other requirements, such as completing a training program or having work experience in a pharmacy.
Typical Employers:
Pharmacy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, and specialty pharmacies. Some pharmacy technicians also work for insurance companies or pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Work Environment:
Pharmacy technicians work in a fast-paced environment, often standing for long periods of time. They may work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as pharmacies typically have extended hours of operation. Pharmacy technicians may interact with patients, healthcare providers, and a variety of other healthcare professionals.
Career Pathways (both leading to this position and next positions):
Many pharmacy technicians begin their careers in entry-level positions and work their way up through experience and additional training. Some pharmacy technicians may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as compounding or sterile products. Others may pursue further education and certification to become pharmacy managers, training specialists, or other healthcare professionals.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
Job growth for pharmacy technicians is projected to be faster than average according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS predicts that employment of pharmacy technicians in the United States will increase by 7% from 2019 to 2029. The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase as the need for prescription medications grows and the population ages. The job growth trend for pharmacy technicians is expected to be similar globally as well.Career Satisfaction: Pharmacy technicians often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the important role they play in the healthcare system. They have the opportunity to help people in need, work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, and utilize their skills and knowledge to make a difference.
Related Job Positions: Other related job positions in the healthcare industry may include pharmacy assistant, pharmacist, medical billing specialist, medical records technician, and medical receptionist.
Connected People: Pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive safe and effective medications. They may also interact with patients themselves, answering questions and providing guidance regarding medication use.
Average Salary (USA, UK, Germany, India, Brazil): According to Payscale.com, the average pharmacy technician salary in the United States is around $32,000 per year. In the UK, the average salary is £19,000 per year, while in Germany, it is around €25,000 per year. In India, the average salary is approximately ₹152,000 per year and in Brazil, it is around R$27,000 per year.
Benefits Package: Pharmacy technicians may receive a benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and educational opportunities. However, benefits may vary depending on the employer and location.
Schedule and Hours Required: Pharmacy technicians may work full-time or part-time, and their schedules may vary depending on the setting in which they work. Many pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, and some pharmacy technicians may be required to work evening, weekend, or holiday shifts.Level of Autonomy:
Pharmacy Technicians work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists, and their level of autonomy varies depending on the state regulations and the policies of the pharmacy they work in. In some settings, such as retail pharmacies, pharmacy technicians may have more responsibility and independence in carrying out their duties, while in other settings, such as hospital pharmacies, their duties may be more closely monitored and directed by pharmacists.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
Pharmacy Technicians have a range of opportunities for professional development and advancement. They can pursue additional training and certification, such as becoming a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). With experience and advanced training, they can also take on roles such as lead technician or supervisor. Additionally, some pharmacy technicians may choose to go back to school to become pharmacists.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
Pharmacy Technicians require specialized skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. They need to have knowledge of medications, dosages, side effects, and administration methods. They also need to be familiar with medical terminology, pharmacology, and drug interactions. In addition, they must be able to read and interpret prescriptions, perform calculations, and manage pharmacy operations.
Physical Demands:
Pharmacy Technicians may be required to stand or sit for long periods, lift heavy boxes of supplies, and perform repetitive tasks such as counting pills or labeling medication. They may also need to wear gloves, masks, or other protective equipment to handle medications and prevent contamination.
Tools and Technologies Used:
Pharmacy Technicians use a variety of tools and technologies to carry out their duties. They use computers to access patient records, prescription databases, and medication information. They also use automated dispensing systems, pill counters, and other specialized equipment to fill prescriptions accurately and efficiently. Additionally, they use communication tools such as phones and email to communicate with pharmacists, healthcare providers, and patients.Work Style:
As a Pharmacy Technician, you will need to have strong attention to detail, be able to follow instructions accurately, and have excellent organizational skills. You will be responsible for managing patient records and medication inventory, preparing prescriptions, and sometimes assisting with administrative tasks. Being able to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment is also important.
Working Conditions:
Pharmacy Technicians work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The job often requires standing for long periods of time and working with a variety of medications and medical equipment. You may also need to work evenings, weekends, or holidays, depending on the specific pharmacy you work in.
Team Size and Structure:
Pharmacy Technicians work closely with Pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and physicians. In a retail pharmacy, you may also work with cashiers and other support staff. Team sizes can vary depending on the size of the pharmacy or healthcare facility you work in.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Pharmacy Technicians need to have strong communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team. You will need to be able to explain medication instructions clearly and answer any questions patients may have. Collaboration within the team is also important to ensure that patients receive the best care possible.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Pharmacy Technicians need to be patient and empathetic towards patients and their needs. Understanding cultural differences and being able to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds is important. Being committed to patient safety and upholding the values of the pharmacy or healthcare facility you work in is also important for success in this role.
Overview/Summary of the Role:
A pharmacy technician works under the supervision of a registered pharmacist to provide patients with medication and related health care services. Their responsibilities include filling prescriptions, counting tablets, labeling medications, and providing customer service to patients.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Receive and screen prescription orders from patients or healthcare providers.
- Enter prescription data into the computer system.
- Measure, mix, package and label medication.
- Obtain medication from the pharmacy shelf or storage area and ensure that the drug is in good condition.
- Provide customer service to patients and answer their questions regarding medication use or side effects.
- Manage inventory by tracking medication levels and ordering supplies when necessary.
- Prepare and maintain patient profiles and medication records.
- Assist with billing and processing insurance claims for medication costs.
- Comply with legal and ethical pharmacy practice guidelines and standards.
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard Skills:
- Knowledge of medication and drug classifications.
- Familiarity with pharmacy law and regulations.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations for drug dosage.
- Proficient with pharmacy computer systems and software applications.
Soft Skills:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
Education and Experience:
Required:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Completion of a pharmacy technician training program or on-the-job training.
- State certification or licensure as a pharmacy technician.
Preferred:
- Associates or Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy or a related field.
- Previous work experience in a pharmacy or healthcare setting.Licensing (if applicable):
Licensing requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by state. Some states require pharmacy technicians to be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) before they can work. Certification typically involves passing an exam and meeting other requirements, such as completing a training program or having work experience in a pharmacy.
Typical Employers:
Pharmacy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, and specialty pharmacies. Some pharmacy technicians also work for insurance companies or pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Work Environment:
Pharmacy technicians work in a fast-paced environment, often standing for long periods of time. They may work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as pharmacies typically have extended hours of operation. Pharmacy technicians may interact with patients, healthcare providers, and a variety of other healthcare professionals.
Career Pathways (both leading to this position and next positions):
Many pharmacy technicians begin their careers in entry-level positions and work their way up through experience and additional training. Some pharmacy technicians may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as compounding or sterile products. Others may pursue further education and certification to become pharmacy managers, training specialists, or other healthcare professionals.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
Job growth for pharmacy technicians is projected to be faster than average according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS predicts that employment of pharmacy technicians in the United States will increase by 7% from 2019 to 2029. The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase as the need for prescription medications grows and the population ages. The job growth trend for pharmacy technicians is expected to be similar globally as well.Career Satisfaction: Pharmacy technicians often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the important role they play in the healthcare system. They have the opportunity to help people in need, work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, and utilize their skills and knowledge to make a difference.
Related Job Positions: Other related job positions in the healthcare industry may include pharmacy assistant, pharmacist, medical billing specialist, medical records technician, and medical receptionist.
Connected People: Pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive safe and effective medications. They may also interact with patients themselves, answering questions and providing guidance regarding medication use.
Average Salary (USA, UK, Germany, India, Brazil): According to Payscale.com, the average pharmacy technician salary in the United States is around $32,000 per year. In the UK, the average salary is £19,000 per year, while in Germany, it is around €25,000 per year. In India, the average salary is approximately ₹152,000 per year and in Brazil, it is around R$27,000 per year.
Benefits Package: Pharmacy technicians may receive a benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and educational opportunities. However, benefits may vary depending on the employer and location.
Schedule and Hours Required: Pharmacy technicians may work full-time or part-time, and their schedules may vary depending on the setting in which they work. Many pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, and some pharmacy technicians may be required to work evening, weekend, or holiday shifts.Level of Autonomy:
Pharmacy Technicians work under the supervision of licensed pharmacists, and their level of autonomy varies depending on the state regulations and the policies of the pharmacy they work in. In some settings, such as retail pharmacies, pharmacy technicians may have more responsibility and independence in carrying out their duties, while in other settings, such as hospital pharmacies, their duties may be more closely monitored and directed by pharmacists.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
Pharmacy Technicians have a range of opportunities for professional development and advancement. They can pursue additional training and certification, such as becoming a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). With experience and advanced training, they can also take on roles such as lead technician or supervisor. Additionally, some pharmacy technicians may choose to go back to school to become pharmacists.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
Pharmacy Technicians require specialized skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively. They need to have knowledge of medications, dosages, side effects, and administration methods. They also need to be familiar with medical terminology, pharmacology, and drug interactions. In addition, they must be able to read and interpret prescriptions, perform calculations, and manage pharmacy operations.
Physical Demands:
Pharmacy Technicians may be required to stand or sit for long periods, lift heavy boxes of supplies, and perform repetitive tasks such as counting pills or labeling medication. They may also need to wear gloves, masks, or other protective equipment to handle medications and prevent contamination.
Tools and Technologies Used:
Pharmacy Technicians use a variety of tools and technologies to carry out their duties. They use computers to access patient records, prescription databases, and medication information. They also use automated dispensing systems, pill counters, and other specialized equipment to fill prescriptions accurately and efficiently. Additionally, they use communication tools such as phones and email to communicate with pharmacists, healthcare providers, and patients.Work Style:
As a Pharmacy Technician, you will need to have strong attention to detail, be able to follow instructions accurately, and have excellent organizational skills. You will be responsible for managing patient records and medication inventory, preparing prescriptions, and sometimes assisting with administrative tasks. Being able to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment is also important.
Working Conditions:
Pharmacy Technicians work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. The job often requires standing for long periods of time and working with a variety of medications and medical equipment. You may also need to work evenings, weekends, or holidays, depending on the specific pharmacy you work in.
Team Size and Structure:
Pharmacy Technicians work closely with Pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and physicians. In a retail pharmacy, you may also work with cashiers and other support staff. Team sizes can vary depending on the size of the pharmacy or healthcare facility you work in.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Pharmacy Technicians need to have strong communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, and other members of the healthcare team. You will need to be able to explain medication instructions clearly and answer any questions patients may have. Collaboration within the team is also important to ensure that patients receive the best care possible.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Pharmacy Technicians need to be patient and empathetic towards patients and their needs. Understanding cultural differences and being able to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds is important. Being committed to patient safety and upholding the values of the pharmacy or healthcare facility you work in is also important for success in this role.