Becoming a medication technician in Georgia can be a rewarding career, allowing you to work in the healthcare industry and make a positive impact on patients' lives. To get started, you'll need to obtain certification. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve medication tech certification in Georgia.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a medication technician in Georgia, you must meet the basic requirements set by the Georgia Board of Pharmacy. These requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Having a valid government-issued ID
- Having a social security number
Additional Requirements for Certain Candidates
Some candidates may need to meet additional requirements, such as:
- Having a criminal background check
- Providing proof of immunization
- Having a valid CPR certification
Step 2: Complete a Medication Technician Training Program
To become a certified medication technician, you'll need to complete a training program approved by the Georgia Board of Pharmacy. These programs are usually offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or online institutions.
The training program should cover topics such as:
- Medication administration
- Pharmacy operations
- Patient safety
- Infection control
Program Length and Cost
The length and cost of medication technician training programs vary depending on the institution and location. On average, programs can last from a few weeks to several months and cost between $500 to $2,000.
Step 3: Pass the Certification Exam
After completing your training program, you'll need to pass the certification exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in medication administration and pharmacy operations.
Exam Format and Content
The certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and is divided into two sections:
- Section 1: Medication Administration (60 questions)
- Section 2: Pharmacy Operations (40 questions)
Step 4: Maintain Certification
To maintain your certification, you'll need to complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the certification renewal process. The NHA requires certified medication technicians to complete 10 hours of continuing education every 2 years.
Continuing Education Topics
Continuing education topics may include:
- Medication administration updates
- Pharmacy operations best practices
- Patient safety and infection control
Step 5: Pursue Advanced Certifications or Education
After gaining experience and certification as a medication technician, you may want to pursue advanced certifications or education to advance your career. Some options include:
- Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
- Certified Clinical Pharmacy Technician (CCPhT)
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a healthcare-related field
Benefits of Advanced Certifications or Education
Pursuing advanced certifications or education can provide benefits such as:
- Increased job opportunities
- Higher salary potential
- Greater job satisfaction
By following these steps, you can become a certified medication technician in Georgia and start a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.
What is the average salary for a medication technician in Georgia?
+The average salary for a medication technician in Georgia is around $34,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How long does it take to become a certified medication technician in Georgia?
+The length of time it takes to become a certified medication technician in Georgia varies depending on the training program and individual circumstances. On average, it can take from a few weeks to several months.
What are the continuing education requirements for certified medication technicians in Georgia?
+Certified medication technicians in Georgia are required to complete 10 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain their certification.