What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who assists licensed pharmacists in various tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining inventory, and providing customer service. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Pennsylvania, you'll need to complete a training program approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy. These programs typically include coursework in pharmacology, medication safety, and pharmacy operations, as well as supervised practical experience in a pharmacy setting.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Pittsburgh

The fastest way to become a Pharmacy Technician in Pittsburgh is to enroll in a vocational or technical school program. These programs are designed to be completed in as little as 6-12 months, allowing you to start your new career quickly.

Pharmacy Technician Classes in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh offers several options fPharmacy Technician classes, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are a few examples:

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC)

• Length: 2 semesters (approximately 9 months)
• Cost: Approximately $4,000 for in-county residents
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and drug screening
• Overview: CCAC's Pharmacy Technician program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy calculations, and medication dispensing. Students also complete a 160-hour internship in a real pharmacy setting.

Pittsburgh Technical College

• Length: 9 months
• Cost: Approximately $18,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and drug screening
• Overview: Pittsburgh Technical College's Pharmacy Technician program offers hands-on training in a state-of-the-art pharmacy lab, as well as an externship in a local pharmacy. The curriculum includes courses in pharmacy law, medical terminology, and pharmacy operations.

Bidwell Training Center

• Length: 12 months
• Cost: Approximately $10,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, background check, and drug screening
• Overview: Bidwell Training Center's Pharmacy Technician program provides a well-rounded education, including classes in pharmacy calculations, sterile compounding, and customer service. Students also complete a 240-hour externship at a local pharmacy.

Online and Free Options in Pittsburgh

In addition to the in-person programs, there are also online options for those who prefer a more flexible learning environment. Several community colleges and technical schools in the Pittsburgh area offer online Pharmacy Technician classes, allowing students to complete their coursework at their own pace.

While there are no free Pharmacy Technician programs in Pittsburgh, some organizations, such as the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, may offer financial assistance or scholarship opportunities to help offset the cost of tuition.

Certification Process

In Pennsylvania, Pharmacy Technicians must be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) to work in the field. The certification process typically involves passing a national exam, which covers topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, and pharmacy operations.

Job Environment in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh's healthcare industry is thriving, with numerous hospitals, pharmacies, and long-term care facilities that employ Pharmacy Technicians. Some of the top employers for Pharmacy Technicians in the city include UPMC, Allegheny Health Network, and Giant Eagle Pharmacy.

Pharmacy Technicians in Pittsburgh can expect a stable and rewarding job environment, with opportunities for career advancement and continuing education. The mean annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Pennsylvania is around $39,250 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Pittsburgh is an excellent career choice for those interested in the healthcare industry. With a variety of training programs, flexible learning options, and a thriving job market, the Steel City offers ample opportunities for aspiring Pharmacy Technicians. To help you further with your decision, an insight of a pharmacy technician might help! Whether you're a local resident or considering relocating, take the first step towards your new career by exploring the Pharmacy Technician classes near you in Pittsburgh.

If this article isn't quite hitting the mark for you, why not give these other articles a try:

• Psychiatric Technician Training in Pittsburgh
• Phlebotomy Training in Pittsburgh