Become A Certified Pharmacy Technician In Pennsylvania Today

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare as a pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania? With the increasing demand for pharmacy technicians in the state, now is an excellent time to become certified and start your career. In this article, we will guide you through the process of becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania, including the requirements, training programs, and the benefits of certification.

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists licensed pharmacists with dispensing medication, handling patient information, and performing administrative tasks. Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medications to patients.

Requirements for Becoming a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Pennsylvania

To become a certified pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy
• Pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification exam
• Apply for registration with the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy

Pharmacy Technician Training Programs in Pennsylvania

There are several pharmacy technician training programs available in Pennsylvania, including:

• Community colleges
• Vocational schools
• Technical schools
• Online programs

These programs typically take 6-12 months to complete and cover topics such as:

• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmacology
• Patient information and communication
• Medication dispensing and handling
• Administrative tasks and record-keeping

Benefits of Certification

Certification as a pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania offers several benefits, including:

• Increased job opportunities and career advancement
• Higher salary potential
• Enhanced job security
• Professional recognition and respect
• Opportunities for specialization and continuing education

Salary and Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians in Pennsylvania

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania is around $34,000. The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 12% from 2020 to 2030.

How to Apply for Certification

To apply for certification as a pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania, follow these steps:

• Complete a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy
• Pass the PTCB or NHA certification exam
• Submit an application for registration with the Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy
• Pay the required registration fee
• Provide proof of certification and identity

PTCB and NHA Certification Exams

The PTCB and NHA certification exams are designed to test your knowledge and skills as a pharmacy technician. The exams cover topics such as:

• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmacology
• Patient information and communication
• Medication dispensing and handling
• Administrative tasks and record-keeping

Conclusion

Becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Pennsylvania requires completing a training program, passing a certification exam, and applying for registration with the state board of pharmacy. Certification offers several benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher salary potential, and professional recognition. With the growing demand for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania, now is an excellent time to pursue this rewarding career.