One of the most underrated medical professionals is the Pharmacy Technician. People often limit their tasks to drugstore work, but did you know they can earn an average of $40,260 annually? Let us discover how the everyday life of a Pharmacy Technician can be. 

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What does a Pharmacy Technician do? Why are they important?

A Pharmacy technician's role is to ensure the safety of preparing and consuming medicines. They work under the guidance of a pharmacist or doctor. Their tasks depend on their workplace and the laws in the state they are working. 

A day in a life of a pharmacy tech has varying but essential roles. They manage routine tasks and allow pharmacists to focus more on patient care. They also act as a bridge between pharmacists and patients. The accuracy of prescriptions lies within their hands. This has a direct impact on every patient's health and safety. 

Let's find out more about their day-to-day tasks through the list below:

• Get the correct details of customers and doctors to process prescriptions and refills. 

• Measure medications for each prescription following the doctor's orders. 

• Package and attach labels to bottles with the usage instructions.

• Organize the inventory to avoid any shortages.

• Process payments, including third-party billing claims.

• Keep track of the system of patient records and orders. 

• Serve as a first point of contact for medication concerns.

• Pre-package and repack bulk medications. 

• Prepare mixed or compounded medications, following both sterile and non-sterile procedures.

• Check automated dispensing machines and make sure it's always filled. 

• Assist with investigational drug studies. 

• Follow all regulatory requirements in place for safety reasons. 

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What are the skills of a Pharmacy Technician?

Interpersonal Skills: Pharmacy technicians interact with customers, nurses, and medical doctors. Having a courteous and helpful attitude is a must!

Attention to detail: Errors in filling prescriptions can lead to serious health risks! Labeling the proper usage of medicines is also essential. Being meticulous and observant will prevent any complications in the long run. 

Communication Skills: Pharmacists and doctors should get a clear report from CPhTs. They must also be good listeners of a customer's needs. They should be able to decide if they need a pharmacist's consultation.

Calculation Skills: Math will be a part of the everyday life of a CPhT. Counting pills and compounding medications also need specific math skills! Handling billing tasks will also have mathematical components in them.

Organizational Skills: Good organizational skills help complete tasks assigned by pharmacists. Aside from these, they must serve customers or patients throughout the day. Since CPhTs are juggling a lot, time management is crucial for them.

Now you know how CPhTs work and what skills you need for this job. I'm sure you're still wondering about some aspects of how you can be one. Good news, cause we got you covered! Let's further walk you through how you can become a Pharmacy Technician!   

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Where can Pharmacy Technicians work?

The career of a Pharmacy Technician opens doors to diverse working places. Let's see if any of these work environments fit your preference!

1. Retail pharmacies: The frontline heroes

Pharmacy technicians are the friendly faces you see at your local drugstore. They do admin tasks and answer queries about providing medication. They may also administer a prescription. 

The pace can be brisk or busy, but the reward lies in the direct impact on community health.

2. Hospital pharmacies: Where care meets complexity

Hospital pharmacies offer a different rhythm. It's a high-energy setting, dealing with ER patients and long-term ones. They contribute to patient health by preparing a variety of medications. Other tasks may include handling syringes and IV solutions. 

3. Long-term care facilities and Nursing homes: Building relationships

Pharmacy technicians are often stationed at the local pharmacy area within the facility. Their duties mirror those in retail pharmacies, and their primary responsibility is to assist with billing,  prescriptions, and clerical tasks. Mobile residents can approach the window or counter to receive their medications. If residents are less mobile, nurses or medication aides collect the medications. On their patient's behalf, they ensure the medicines are accurate.

4. Mail-Order and online pharmacies: Embracing the digital wave

Automating everything is a trend! Instead of manually filling prescriptions, the machines are doing this for them. They only need to put in orders and prescriptions on the computer. CPhTs manage these machines and also fill them throughout the day. Maintenance of the machine is also essential to avoid any issues.

5. Pharmaceutical companies: Pioneers of healthcare

Working in pharmaceutical companies contributes to groundbreaking research. You can have the chance to help in the production of products. Marketing is also a possible field in this line of work. It's challenging and offers avenues for growth and specialization.

6. Specialty pharmacies or Compounding pharmacies: Masters of customization

These pharmacies create tailored medication dosages. CPhTs here have multi-faceted roles. Some of their notable roles are the following. They review and prepare medication orders, including hazardous drugs. Their efforts are for every patient's safety. 

Safe handling, dispensing, and disposal of hazardous drugs are also their primary task. They must also be proficient in using automated pharmacy systems.

CPhTs in this field educate new technicians as well. They train them in safe and aseptic handling techniques. This is to maintain the competencies and knowledge of everyone. Another safety measure task they have is to draft initial templates for new drugs. They also review documents about the cleaning processes for sterile compounding areas.

7. Food and beverage stores: Convenience at your fingertips

Grocery stores often house pharmacies, offering technicians a bustling, customer-focused environment. This is perfect for people who love to help. They can enjoy working in a familiar setting along with their pharmaceutical duties.

8. Education: Pharmacy technician instructor

Pharmacy technician instructors come with extra education. They should hold a degree one level higher than the program they're teaching. At least an associate degree is a need if you're teaching a certificate program.

CPhT instructors use a mix of hands-on training and classroom lectures. This practice follows is essential for CPhT programs. CPhTs with five years of experience with a degree should consider starting! Shaping future healthcare heroes is rewarding. 

9. Military: Service beyond borders

Pharmacy technicians can also serve in the military. They have the usual tasks of a CPhT but may take on special tasks. They may serve military personnel and their families in military hospitals and clinics. This role is challenging as it often involves relocation. Military service offers unique benefits and the pride of serving your nation.

Pharmacy technicians can explore unique experiences, challenges, and rewards. The pharmacy technician's job outlook at the moment shows promising figures. These work environments may lead you to grow not only your career but also your finances! 

Your impact as a CPhT will be significant wherever you take your skills.

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Concluding Thoughts

The role of a CPhT is dynamic and holds immense value in the healthcare industry. From retail pharmacies to hospital settings, online platforms to education, or the military. Each of these settings will offer unique experiences and opportunities for a CPhT!

The choice of the right work environment is crucial. It should align with your skills and your passion. Think about the impacts of your job satisfaction and growth potential in the field. 

We hope this blog has given you a deeper understanding of CPhTs multifaceted roles. We encourage you to explore further and seek the proper training! Take that next step and see if this career is right for you.