What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who assists licensed Pharmacists in the preparation and distribution of medication. They perform a variety of tasks, such as measuring, mixing, and labeling medications, as well as maintaining patient records and inventory. Pharmacy Technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and safety of medication dispensing, which is essential for patient health and well-being.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Arizona, you'll need to complete a training program that is approved by the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. The training covers topics such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmaceutical calculations.

Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Phoenix

In Phoenix, the completion time for pharmacy technician classes may vary. In some cases, you can become a Pharmacy Technician in as little as 4-6 months. Several local colleges and vocational schools offer Pharmacy Technician programs that are designed to prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy's licensing requirements.

Examples of Pharmacy Technician Classes in Phoenix

1. Pima Medical Institute: Pima Medical Institute offers a Pharmacy Technician program at their Phoenix campus. The program is 36 weeks long and costs approximately $17,995. It includes both classroom instruction and a 180-hour externship in a pharmacy setting. Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED, and students must pass a background check and drug screening.

2. Carrington College: Carrington College's Phoenix campus offers a Pharmacy Technician program that can be completed in as little as 9 months. The program costs around $21,995 and includes both didactic and hands-on training. Students must have a high school diploma or GED and pass a background check and drug screening to be admitted.

3. Mesa Community College: Mesa Community College, located just east of Phoenix, offers a Pharmacy Technician program that can be completed in 2 semesters. The program costs approximately $4,000 for in-state students and $12,000 for out-of-state students. Admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED, and students must pass a background check and drug screening.

Online and Free Options in Phoenix

In addition to the in-person Pharmacy Technician programs in Phoenix, there are also online options available. These programs allow students to complete the didactic portion of the training remotely, with the hands-on training and externship components typically completed at a local pharmacy.

While there are no completely free Pharmacy Technician programs in Phoenix, some community colleges and vocational schools may offer financial assistance or payment plans to help make the training more affordable.

Certification Process

After completing a Pharmacy Technician training program, the next step is to obtain certification. In Arizona, Pharmacy Technicians must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and apply for a license from the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy.

The PTCE is a national exam that covers topics such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and medication preparation. Once you have passed the PTCE, you can apply for your Arizona Pharmacy Technician license, which is valid for two years and must be renewed.

Job Environment in Phoenix

Phoenix is an excellent place to work as a Pharmacy Technician, as the city has a large and growing healthcare industry. Potential employers for Pharmacy Technicians in Phoenix include:

• Hospitals and medical centers (such as Banner Health, HonorHealth, and Dignity Health)
• Retail pharmacies (such as Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid)
• Specialty pharmacies
• Long-term care facilities
• Mail-order pharmacies

Pharmacy Technicians in Phoenix can expect to earn a competitive salary. The mean annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Arizona is $37,170.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician and live in the Phoenix area, there are plenty of options for you to consider. With several Pharmacy Technician classes near you, you can get the training and certification you need to start a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. Whether you choose an in-person program or an online option, the key is to find the right fit for your needs and goals. With the right education and certification, you can become a valuable member of the healthcare team in Phoenix.

Are you thinking about a job change or wanting to learn more about different career paths? Feel free to check out these additional articles:

• Psychiatric Technician Training in Phoenix

• Physical Therapy Technician Training in Phoenix

• Phlebotomy Training in Phoenix