Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician in Ohio? This guide covers everything you need to know, from training programs and pharmacy technician certification to job opportunities and pharmacy technician salary insights. With a projected 7% job growth nationwide from 2023 to 2033, now is the perfect time to explore pharmacy technician jobs in this rewarding healthcare field.

Key Points

• A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service in various healthcare settings.
• To become a pharmacy technician in Ohio, you need a high school diploma or GED, complete a state-approved training program, and register with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, which requires passing the PTCE or ExCPT certification exam.
• Pharmacy technician programs in Ohio typically take 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on whether you enroll full-time or part-time.
• In Ohio, the average pharmacy technician salary is $41,150 per year.

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.

Common Responsibilities

• Preparing and dispensing prescription medications under pharmacist supervision
• Managing and organizing medication inventory
• Processing insurance claims and handling customer transactions
• Labeling and packaging prescriptions for distribution
• Assisting customers with medication-related inquiries

Where Do Pharmacy Technicians Work?

Pharmacy technicians are employed in various healthcare and pharmaceutical settings throughout Ohio, offering flexibility in work environments.

• Retail Pharmacies: Drugstores like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid employ pharmacy techs to assist in filling prescriptions and customer service.
• Hospital Pharmacies: Provide medications to inpatients and collaborate with healthcare professionals in medical settings.
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Prepare and distribute medications to nursing homes and assisted living communities.
• Mail-Order Pharmacies: Handle large-scale medication distribution for online and specialty pharmacy services.
• Compounding Pharmacies: Assist in preparing customized medications for patients with specific medical needs.

Requirements to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio

To become a pharmacy technician in Ohio, you must meet specific educational, certification, and legal requirements.

Education Requirements:

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Completing a pharmacy technician training program is preferred by most employers. Programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and online platforms.

Legal Requirements:

• Pharmacy technicians must register with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy before working.
• A criminal background check is required.
• Certification is mandatory—candidates must pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

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. Research Pharmacy Technician Programs in Ohio

Start by researching accredited pharmacy technician training programs in Ohio. Compare different schools, community colleges, vocational institutes, and online platforms to find a program that fits your career goals and schedule.

2. Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program

Choose a pharmacy technician school that offers a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and externships. These programs typically provide a well-rounded education in pharmacy practice, medication dispensing, and customer service.

Dreambound offers easy access to compare pharmacy technician programs in Ohio, including options in:

• Dayton, OH
• Toledo, OH

3. Gain Hands-On Experience

Practical experience is crucial for success in this field. Most programs offer clinical rotations, allowing you to work in real pharmacy settings under the supervision of licensed pharmacists. This experience helps you build essential skills in medication management and pharmacy operations.

4. Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam

After completing your training, you’ll need to pass a national certification exam to become a certified pharmacy technician. You can choose from two well-known certification exams:

• Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) – Administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
• Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) – Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

These certifications validate your skills and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

5. Register with the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy

All pharmacy technicians in Ohio must be registered with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy to legally work in the state. This process includes a background check and verification of your certification. Once registered, you can begin practicing as a licensed pharmacy technician in Ohio.

6. Apply for Pharmacy Technician Jobs in Ohio

With your certification and registration in hand, you’re ready to apply for pharmacy technician jobs in Ohio. Opportunities are available in various settings, such as:

• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Retail pharmacies and drugstores
• Specialty medical pharmacies

You can find job listings through local job boards or use My Next Move to search for pharmacy technician positions in Ohio.

Where to Find Pharmacy Technician Classes in Ohio?

Finding a pharmacy technician training program in Ohio is easier with Dreambound. This platform helps students locate pharmacy technician classes near them, compare costs, and explore program details.

Dreambound makes it simple to find the right training program for your career goals. Visit Dreambound today!

Career Paths and Opportunities After Becoming a Pharmacy Technician

After becoming a certified pharmacy technician, career advancement opportunities include:

• Lead Pharmacy Technician: Manage inventory and assist in supervising pharmacy staff.
• Specialized Pharmacy Tech: Work in areas such as oncology, nuclear pharmacy, or sterile compounding.
• Pharmaceutical Sales Representative: Transition into the pharmaceutical industry to market and sell medications.
• Pharmacist: With additional education, pharmacy technicians can advance to become licensed pharmacists.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech in Ohio?

Pharmacy technician training programs in Ohio typically take 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you attend a certificate or associate degree program.

Do you have to be licensed to be a pharmacy technician in Ohio?

Yes, all pharmacy technicians in Ohio must be registered with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy and must pass the PTCE or ExCPT certification exam.

How much does a certified pharmacy technician make in Ohio?

The average salary for a certified pharmacy technician in Ohio is $41,150 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Final Thoughts

Becoming a pharmacy technician in Ohio is an excellent career choice with strong job security, competitive pay, and career advancement opportunities. By completing a state-approved training program, obtaining certification, and registering with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, you’ll be on your way to a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry.

Ready to get started? Explore Dreambound to find pharmacy technician classes near you and take the first step toward your new career.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

• Medical Administrative Assistant Training in Ohio
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• Medical Billing and Coding Training in Ohio
• Psychiatric Technician Training in Ohio