Scranton, a vibrant city in northeastern Pennsylvania, offers a wealth of opportunities for those interested in becoming a Pharmacy Technician. Whether you're a local resident or considering relocating to the area, the availability of Pharmacy Technician classes near you in Scranton can help you become a part of this growing healthcare field. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the training requirements, the fastest path to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Scranton, and the specific Pharmacy Technician classes available in the city prepping yourself to land top-tier pharmacy technician jobs with attractive pharmacy technician salary benefits.

According to data from the BLS for May 2023, Pennsylvania has a 17,880 employment level. In this state, the average yearly salary for pharmacy technicians is $39,250.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists in a variety of tasks, such as preparing and dispensing 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 accurate and timely delivery of medications to patients.

Training Requirements

To become a Pharmacy Technician in Scranton, you'll need to complete a Pharmacy Technician training program. These programs typically include coursework in pharmacology, medical terminology, pharmacy law and ethics, and hands-on training in a pharmacy setting. In some cases, you may also need to pass a certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).

The Fastest Path to Becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Scranton

The fastest way to become a Pharmacy Technician in Scranton is to enroll in a Pharmacy Technician training program that offers an accelerated or intensive format. These programs can be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks, allowing you to get started in your new career quickly.

Pharmacy Technician Classes in Scranton

Scranton offers several Pharmacy Technician classes and training programs to choose from. Here are a few examples:

Lackawanna College

• Length: 12 weeks
• Price: $2,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Lackawanna College's Pharmacy Technician program provides comprehensive training in all aspects of pharmacy operations, including medication preparation, inventory management, and customer service. The program includes hands-on clinical experience in a pharmacy setting.

Penn Foster College

• Length: Self-paced, approximately 6 months
• Price: $799
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: Penn Foster College offers an online Pharmacy Technician program that allows students to complete their training at their own pace. The program covers topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law and regulations, and medication dispensing.

Scranton Area Career and Technical Center

• Length: 1 year
• Price: Free (for high school students)
• Requirements: Enrollment in a Scranton-area high school
• Overview: The Scranton Area Career and Technical Center offers a Pharmacy Technician program as part of its vocational education curriculum. The program provides hands-on training in a simulated pharmacy environment and prepares students for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.

Online and Free Options in Scranton

In addition to the in-person Pharmacy Technician classes in Scranton, there are also online and free options available:

• Online Options

Penn Foster College, as mentioned earlier, offers a self-paced online Pharmacy Technician program that can be completed from the comfort of your own home.

• Free Options

The Scranton Area Career and Technical Center's Pharmacy Technician program is offered free of charge to high school students in the Scranton area.

The Certification Process

In Pennsylvania, Pharmacy Technicians are required to be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To become certified, you'll need to pass 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 through ongoing continuing education and renewal requirements.

The Job Environment in Scranton

Scranton offers a variety of employment opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians. Some of the potential employers in the area include:

• Geisinger Community Medical Center
• Scranton Primary Health Care Center
• Rite Aid Pharmacy
• Walgreens
• CVS Pharmacy
• Independent community pharmacies

Pharmacy Technicians in Scranton may work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, retail pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and specialty pharmacies. The job environment can be fast-paced and demanding, but also rewarding for those who enjoy working in the healthcare field.

Final Thoughts

Scranton's Pharmacy Technician classes offer a great opportunity for individuals interested in joining the growing healthcare industry. Whether you choose an in-person program, an online option, or a free vocational program, you'll be well on your way to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Scranton. With the right training and certification, you can secure a rewarding career in a dynamic and essential field.

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

• Phlebotomy Training in Scranton