Pharmacy Tech Introduction

Pharmacy Technicians Individuals working in a pharmacy who, under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, assist in activities not requiring the professional judgment of the pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals. Individuals working in a pharmacy who, under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, assist in activities not requiring the professional judgment of the pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians help licensed pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals.

American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA) is a professional organization that provides resources and support to pharmacies to improve healthcare.

Quick Facts 2012 Median Pay $29,320 per year $14.10 per hour Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent Work Experience in a Related Occupation None On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the- job training Number of Jobs, ,300 Job Outlook, % (Faster than average) 2012 Median Pay $29,320 per year $14.10 per hour Entry-Level Education High school diploma or equivalent Work Experience in a Related Occupation None On-the-job Training Moderate-term on-the- job training Number of Jobs, ,300 Job Outlook, % (Faster than average)

Basics Certification – Process by which a non-governmental agency grants recognition to an individual who has met certain qualifications specified by that association / agency – PTCB – Pharmacy Technician Certification Board grants certification to technicians who pass their voluntary examination Certification – Process by which a non-governmental agency grants recognition to an individual who has met certain qualifications specified by that association / agency – PTCB – Pharmacy Technician Certification Board grants certification to technicians who pass their voluntary examination

After certification received every certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) is required to complete 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their certified status. 2 of those hours must be in pharmacy law After certification received every certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) is required to complete 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their certified status. 2 of those hours must be in pharmacy law

Licensure – Process which a government agency grants permission to an individual engaged in a given occupation when the applicant has attained the minimal degree of competency is obtained Licensure – Process which a government agency grants permission to an individual engaged in a given occupation when the applicant has attained the minimal degree of competency is obtained

Registration – List kept by those that have certifications or licenses (i.e. State Board of Pharmacy makes a list of all who obtain CPhT) Registration – List kept by those that have certifications or licenses (i.e. State Board of Pharmacy makes a list of all who obtain CPhT)