What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists Pharmacists in various tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and providing customer service. Pharmacy Technicians work under the supervision of a licensed Pharmacist and play a crucial role in ensuring the accurate and efficient delivery of medication to patients.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Des Moines, you'll need to complete a Pharmacy Technician training program. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on training, covering topics such as pharmacology, medical terminology, pharmacy procedures, and customer service.

In Iowa, the minimum training requirement for Pharmacy Technicians is a high school diploma or equivalent, along with the completion of a state-approved Pharmacy Technician training program. The length of pharmacy technician classescan vary, but they must include at least 600 hours of instruction, which can be completed in as little as six months.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Des Moines

The fastest way to become a Pharmacy Technician in Des Moines is to enroll in a full-time, accelerated Pharmacy Technician training program. These programs are designed to be completed in as little as six months, allowing you to start your new career in a relatively short timeframe.

One example of an accelerated Pharmacy Technician program in Des Moines is offered by Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). This program is 24 weeks long and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and become a certified Pharmacy Technician.

Pharmacy Technician Classes in Des Moines

There are several options fpharmacy technician classes in Des Moines, both in-person and online. Here are a few examples:

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

• Length: 24 weeks
• Price: $4,995
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: DMACC's Pharmacy Technician program provides comprehensive training in pharmacy operations, pharmacology, and patient care. Students gain hands-on experience in a pharmacy setting and are prepared to take the PTCE exam.

Kaplan University

• Length: Online, self-paced
• Price: $3,999
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Kaplan University's online Pharmacy Technician program allows students to complete their training at their own pace. The curriculum covers topics such as pharmacy calculations, medication safety, and customer service.

Kirkwood Community College

• Length: 1 year
• Price: $5,200 (in-state), $7,800 (out-of-state)
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Kirkwood Community College offers a 1-year Pharmacy Technician diploma program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. Graduates are eligible to take the PTCE exam.

Exploring a Career as a Pharmacy Technician Outside Des Moines

If this article has sparked your interest in becoming a Pharmacy Technician, but you're not in the same state, don't let that hold you back. You have the chance to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician in places like Chicago, Houston, Lakeland, Rochester, Tulsa. And if none of these locations fit, Dreambound makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to find and compare Pharmacy Technician classes just by searching with their zip code. With a bit of determination and the right tools at your disposal, stepping into a successful healthcare career is completely doable, no matter your current location.

Online and Free Options

In addition to the in-person Pharmacy Technician classes available in Des Moines, there are also online and free options to consider.

• Online Options: Several online Pharmacy Technician programs are available, such as the ones offered by Kaplan University and Penn Foster College. These programs allow students to complete their training at their own pace and from the comfort of their own homes.
• Free Options: While there are no completely free Pharmacy Technician programs in Des Moines, some organizations and community colleges may offer financial assistance or scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition. It's worth exploring these options to see if you qualify for any financial aid.

Certification Process

In Iowa, Pharmacy Technicians are required to be certified by passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). This exam covers topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law and regulations, and patient safety.

Once you have completed a Pharmacy Technician training program and passed the PTCE, you will be eligible to apply for a Pharmacy Technician license in Iowa. This license must be renewed every two years, and Pharmacy Technicians are required to complete continuing education credits to maintain their certification.

Job Environment in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to a thriving healthcare industry, making it an excellent place for Pharmacy Technicians to find employment. Some of the potential employers for Pharmacy Technicians in Des Moines include:

• Hospitals: UnityPoint Health, MercyOne, and Broadlawns Medical Center
• Retail Pharmacies: Hy-Vee, Walgreens, and CVS Pharmacy
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Ramsey Village, Edencrest at Beaverdale, and Kennybrook Village
• Specialty Pharmacies: Hy-Vee Specialty Pharmacy and Mercy Specialty Pharmacy

The job outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Des Moines is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth in employment for Pharmacy Technicians nationwide between 2022 and 2032. This growth is largely driven by an aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician and live in the Des Moines area, there are several options for Pharmacy Technician classes near you. Whether you choose an accelerated program, an online course, or a traditional 1-year diploma, you'll be on your way to a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.

With the growing demand for Pharmacy Technicians in Des Moines and the variety of training programs available, now is an excellent time to consider this in-demand profession. Take the first step towards your new career by exploring the Pharmacy Technician class options in Des Moines today.

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