What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in various tasks, such as preparing and distributing medications, maintaining patient records, and providing customer service. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist and play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and accurate delivery of prescription drugs.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Portland, you'll need to complete a formal training program. This typically involves completing a Pharmacy Technician program at a community college, vocational school, or technical institute. These programs usually take between 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the specific program and the level of certification you're seeking.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Portland

The fastest way to become a Pharmacy Technician in Portland is to enroll in a Pharmacy Technician certificate program. These programs are designed to be completed in as little as 6 months, providing you with the necessary training and education to sit for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

Pharmacy Technician Classes in Portland

Here are some examples of Pharmacy Technician classes and programs available in Portland:

1. Portland Community College (PCC)

   • Program Length: 12 months
   • Cost: Approximately $5,000
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: PCC offers an accredited Pharmacy Technician program that prepares students for the PTCE. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy setting.

2. Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC)

   • Program Length: 9 months
   • Cost: Approximately $4,500
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: MHCC's Pharmacy Technician program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in a variety of pharmacy settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.

3. Carrington College

   • Program Length: 9 months
   • Cost: Approximately $20,000
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: Carrington College's Pharmacy Technician program in Portland offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as pharmacology, medication dispensing, and customer service. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on externship experience.

Exploring a Career as a Pharmacy Technician Outside Portland

If you're aiming to pursue a career as a Pharmacy Technician but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a Pharmacy Technician in places like Buffalo, Des Moines, Oklahoma City, Oxnard, San Diego. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a Pharmacy Technician no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare Pharmacy Technician classes with a quick zip code search, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in healthcare, regardless of your current location.

Online Pharmacy Technician Classes in Portland

If you're looking for more flexible options, there are several online Pharmacy Technician programs available to Portland residents. These programs allow you to complete your coursework at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home. Some popular online options include:

1. Portland Community College (PCC) Online
2. Purdue University Global
3. Penn Foster College

Free Pharmacy Technician Classes in Portland

While free Pharmacy Technician classes are not as common, there are a few options available in Portland:

1. WorkSource Portland Metro

   • This workforce development organization occasionally offers free Pharmacy Technician training programs for eligible individuals.

2. Goodwill Industries of the Columbia Willamette

   • Goodwill's job training programs sometimes include Pharmacy Technician training at no cost to participants.

Certification Process

After completing a Pharmacy Technician training program, you'll need to obtain certification to work as a Pharmacy Technician in Portland. This typically involves passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). Once certified, you'll need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education requirements.

Job Environment in Portland

Portland's healthcare industry is thriving, and Pharmacy Technicians play a vital role in supporting the city's pharmacies and hospitals. Some of the potential employers for Pharmacy Technicians in Portland include:

• Legacy Health
• Providence Health & Services
• Kaiser Permanente
• Walgreens
• CVS Pharmacy
• Rite Aid
• Independent pharmacies

Pharmacy Technicians in Portland can expect a stable and rewarding job environment, with opportunities for career advancement and competitive salaries.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Portland, there are plenty of opportunities to get the necessary training and certification. Whether you choose to attend in-person classes or explore online options, you'll be on your way to a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry. With the right program and dedication, you can become a Pharmacy Technician and start making a difference in your community.

Wondering if there's more? Perhaps these other articles will be more helpful if this one isn't exactly what you're after:

• Psychiatric Technician Training in Portland