5 Steps To Obtain Mass Pharmacy Tech License

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Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians has never been more pressing. If you're interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy technology, obtaining a license is a crucial step. In this article, we'll guide you through the five steps to obtain a mass pharmacy tech license.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before embarking on the licensing process, you must meet the basic requirements set by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy. These requirements include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Having a valid government-issued ID

Education and Training

While a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement, many aspiring pharmacy technicians choose to pursue post-secondary education and training. This can include:

• Certificate programs in pharmacy technology
• Associate's degree programs in pharmacy technology
• Diploma programs in pharmacy technology

These programs typically include coursework in:

• Pharmacy operations
• Pharmacology
• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Sterile compounding
• Non-sterile compounding

Step 2: Complete a Pharmacy Technician Training Program

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy requires pharmacy technicians to complete a training program approved by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These programs typically include:

• Classroom instruction
• Clinical training
• Lab training

Some popular pharmacy technician training programs in Massachusetts include:

• The Pharmacy Technician Program at Middlesex Community College
• The Pharmacy Technician Program at Bunker Hill Community College
• The Pharmacy Technician Program at Quincy College

Program Accreditation

When selecting a pharmacy technician training program, it's essential to ensure that it's accredited by the ASHP. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the standards set by the ASHP and prepares students for the licensure exam.

Step 3: Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)

The PTCE is a certification exam administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The exam assesses a candidate's knowledge and skills in areas such as:

• Pharmacy operations
• Pharmacology
• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Sterile compounding
• Non-sterile compounding

To be eligible for the PTCE, candidates must:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have completed a pharmacy technician training program
• Have a valid government-issued ID

Exam Format and Content

The PTCE consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and is divided into three sections:

• Pharmacy operations (40 questions)
• Pharmacology (30 questions)
• Pharmacy law and ethics (20 questions)

Candidates have two hours to complete the exam.

Step 4: Apply for Licensure

After passing the PTCE, candidates can apply for licensure through the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Pharmacy. The application process typically includes:

• Submitting an application form
• Paying the licensure fee
• Providing proof of certification
• Providing proof of identity

Licensure Fees

The licensure fee for pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts is currently $120.

Step 5: Maintain Licensure

To maintain licensure, pharmacy technicians in Massachusetts must complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the Board's regulations.

• Continuing Education: Pharmacy technicians must complete 10 hours of continuing education every two years.
• Regulations: Pharmacy technicians must adhere to the Board's regulations, including those related to scope of practice, supervision, and patient confidentiality.

Gallery of Pharmacy Technician License Requirements:

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