Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing essential support to patients. If you're considering a career as a pharmacy technician, it's important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it's the right path for you. In this blog post, we will explore the various aspects of being a pharmacy technician, including the pros and cons, essential skills and qualifications, career outlook, and factors to consider before embarking on this career.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is responsible for assisting pharmacists in dispensing medications to patients. They work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Some of the key responsibilities of a pharmacy technician include:

• Assisting pharmacists in filling prescriptions and preparing medication orders.
• Counting, measuring, and packaging medications.
• Labeling and organizing medication inventory.
• Processing insurance claims and maintaining patient records.
• Providing customer service and answering patient inquiries.
• Assisting in managing pharmacy workflow and inventory control.

Pros of being a Pharmacy Technician

• Job stability: The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow in the coming years due to an aging population and increased need for prescription medications. This means that there will be ample job opportunities available for qualified pharmacy technicians.
• Competitive salary: Pharmacy technicians typically earn a competitive salary, especially considering the relatively short amount of time required for training and education compared to other healthcare careers.
• Flexible work schedule: Many pharmacy technicians have the option to work part-time or in shifts, allowing for a flexible work schedule that can accommodate other commitments or interests.
• Career advancement opportunities: With experience and additional training, pharmacy technicians can advance their careers by specializing in areas such as compounding medications, sterile product preparation, or medication therapy management.
• Fulfilling work: Pharmacy technicians have the opportunity to make a positive impact on patients' lives by ensuring they receive the correct medications and providing them with valuable information and support.

Cons of being a Pharmacy Technician

• Workload and stress: Pharmacy technicians often work in fast-paced environments, especially in retail settings, where they may be required to handle a high volume of prescriptions and interact with numerous patients throughout the day. This can lead to increased stress and pressure.
• Physical demands: The job of a pharmacy technician may involve standing for long periods, lifting heavy boxes of medications, and performing repetitive tasks, which can take a toll on the body.
• Exposure to hazardous substances: Pharmacy technicians work with various medications and chemicals, some of which may be hazardous if not handled properly. It is important to follow safety protocols to minimize the risk of exposure.
• Limited career growth: While there are opportunities for career advancement as a pharmacy technician, the options may be more limited compared to other healthcare professions. Some pharmacy technicians may choose to pursue further education to become a pharmacist, while others may explore alternative career paths within the healthcare industry.

Essential Skills and Qualifications for pursuing a career as a Pharmacy Technician

• Attention to detail: Pharmacy technicians must have excellent attention to detail to accurately measure and dispense medications, as well as ensure they are properly labeled and organized.
• Strong communication skills: Pharmacy technicians interact with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals on a daily basis. Effective communication skills are essential to provide clear instructions and answer patient inquiries.
• Math proficiency: Pharmacy technicians need to perform calculations to determine the correct dosage of medications, especially when compounding or preparing sterile products.
• Technical competence: Pharmacy technicians must be comfortable using computer systems and other technology to process prescriptions, manage inventory, and maintain patient records.
• Certification and education: While requirements vary by state, most pharmacy technicians are required to complete a formal education or training program and pass a certification exam. These programs typically last around one year and can be found at vocational schools, community colleges, or online platforms like Dreambound.

Career Outlook for Pharmacy Technician

The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is promising, with a projected growth rate of 4% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is driven by an increasing number of middle-aged and elderly individuals who require prescription medications. Additionally, advancements in pharmaceutical research and technology are expected to create new opportunities for pharmacy technicians.

Factors to consider before deciding on a career as a Pharmacy Technician

Before deciding to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician, it's important to consider the following factors:

• Education and training: Pharmacy technician programs typically require a high school diploma or GED. It's important to research and choose a reputable program that will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field.
• Licensing and certification: In most states, pharmacy technicians are required to obtain licensure or certification. This typically involves passing an exam administered by a recognized certification board, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
• Work environment: Pharmacy technicians work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Consider the work environment that aligns with your preferences and career goals.
• Personal attributes: Being a pharmacy technician requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure. Assess whether these attributes align with your strengths and interests.
• Job satisfaction: Research the experiences of current and former pharmacy technicians to get a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of the job. This can help you determine if it's a good fit for you.

Final Thoughts

A career as a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding choice for individuals interested in healthcare and helping others. While there are both pros and cons to consider, the increasing demand for pharmacy technicians and the potential for job stability make it an attractive career option. By acquiring the necessary skills and qualifications, such as completing a pharmacy technician program and obtaining certification, you can position yourself for success in this field. Platforms like Dreambound can help you find reputable training programs that will set you on the path to becoming a pharmacy technician. Remember to carefully weigh the pros and cons, and consider your personal preferences and career goals before making a decision.

Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help with the different parts of the certification process across the country:

• How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Delaware

• How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Nevada

• How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in North Dakota

• How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Wyoming

Exploring a variety of professional opportunities? Dreambound has many extensive guides to help you make informed decisions. Check out these guides:

• ACLS Training in Oklahoma City
• Phlebotomy Training in Oxnard