Key Points

• What is a Pharmacy Technician? A Pharmacy Technician is a registered healthcare professional who works with pharmacists to prepare and dispense prescription medications, manage inventory, and provide customer service.

• How to become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio? To work in Ohio, you must complete a Board-recognized training program, pass a national certification exam (like the PTCE or ExCPT), and register with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy.

• Length of training for a Pharmacy Technician: Training programs are fast, typically lasting between 6 and 12 months.

• Average Pharmacy Technician salary in Ohio: The median annual salary for a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio is approximately $40,200.

• Number of employment of Pharmacy Technicians in Ohio: As of May 2024, there were approximately 32,100 Pharmacy Technicians employed in Ohio.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a key member of the healthcare team, assisting pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing essential support to patients. They ensure accuracy in medication distribution, handle prescription transactions, and contribute to the smooth operation of pharmacies.

What does a Pharmacy Technician do?

The duties of a Pharmacy Technician are a blend of technical precision, organization, and customer service. Common tasks include:

• Receiving and confirming prescription information.
• Accurately counting, measuring, and labeling medications.
• Managing pharmacy inventory and stocking shelves.
• Operating pharmacy software to process prescriptions and insurance claims.
• Providing customer service and referring patients to the pharmacist for clinical questions.

Requirements to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio

To work as a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio, you must be registered with the State of Ohio Board of Pharmacy. The requirements for registration are clear and mandatory.

• Age: Be at least 18 years of age.
• Education: Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Approved Training: You must complete a formal training program approved by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy.
• National Certification: You must pass a national certification exam from either the PTCB or NHA.
• Background Check: You must pass a state and federal criminal background check.
• State Registration: You must hold an active registration from the Ohio Board of Pharmacy.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio

Becoming a pharmacy technician in Ohio is a rewarding career choice with growing job opportunities. Follow these essential steps to start your journey toward a successful career in healthcare.

1. Meet the Foundational Requirements

Before you can enroll in a training program, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or an equivalent credential. It’s also important to be detail-oriented and have strong math and communication skills, as these are essential for the job.

2. Enroll in a Board-Approved Training Program

Your next step is to find and complete a pharmacy technician training program that is approved by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. These programs, which typically award a diploma or certificate, combine classroom learning on subjects like pharmacology and pharmacy law with hands-on lab practice to prepare you for the certification exam and a real-world pharmacy environment.

3. Earn Your National Certification

In Ohio, earning a national certification is mandatory to qualify for state registration. This credential proves your competency and is the key to legally working in the state.

How to Get a Pharmacy Technician Certification in Ohio?

Choose an Exam: The two main certification exams are the PTCE (offered by PTCB) and the ExCPT (offered by NHA). Both are recognized by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy.

• Study and Prepare: Use study guides, practice tests, and the knowledge from your training program to prepare for the exam.

• Pass the Exam: Successfully passing the exam earns you the credential of a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), a required step for your state registration.

4. Apply for Your Ohio Registration and for Jobs

You must be registered with the state before you can legally work. Once your registration is active, you can begin your job search. A great resource for exploring the profession is MyNextMove.org, which details the skills and technology used in the field.

How to Get a Pharmacy Technician Job in Ohio?

First, complete your application for registration with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy online, providing proof of your high school graduation, training program, national certification, and background check. While your registration is being processed, create a resume that highlights your CPhT credential and any clinical experience. Search for job openings at major Ohio employers like CVS, Walgreens, Kroger, and hospital systems like Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth.