The role of pharmacy technicians has become increasingly vital in the healthcare industry, with the demand for skilled professionals expected to rise by 7% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of certified pharmacy technicians cannot be overstated. In this article, we will delve into the world of pharmacy technician certification, exploring the benefits, requirements, and career pathways that can lead to success in this rewarding field.
Key Points
- Earning certification as a pharmacy technician can lead to higher salaries, with certified technicians earning an average of $43,815 per year, compared to non-certified technicians who earn an average of $38,410 per year.
- Certified pharmacy technicians have a wide range of job opportunities, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, with the top industries for employment being retail pharmacies (73%), hospitals (14%), and clinics (6%).
- The certification process typically involves passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the ExCPT exam, with a pass rate of 75% or higher required for certification.
- Certified pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their certification, with a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education required every 2 years.
- Certification can also lead to career advancement opportunities, including senior pharmacy technician, lead pharmacy technician, or even pharmacy manager, with certified technicians being more likely to be promoted to leadership positions.
Benefits of Pharmacy Technician Certification
Certification as a pharmacy technician offers numerous benefits, including increased job prospects, higher salaries, and enhanced career advancement opportunities. According to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), certified pharmacy technicians are more likely to be hired by employers, with 80% of employers preferring to hire certified technicians. Additionally, certified technicians are more likely to be promoted to leadership positions, with 75% of certified technicians reporting career advancement opportunities.
Requirements for Certification
To become certified, pharmacy technicians must meet certain requirements, including completing a training program or having relevant work experience, passing the PTCE or ExCPT exam, and completing continuing education requirements to maintain certification. The PTCE exam is a 2-hour, multiple-choice exam that tests a candidate’s knowledge of pharmacy practice, pharmacology, and pharmacy law, with a pass rate of 75% or higher required for certification. The ExCPT exam is also a multiple-choice exam that tests a candidate’s knowledge of pharmacy practice, pharmacology, and pharmacy law, with a pass rate of 75% or higher required for certification.
| Certification Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 years or older |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Training | Completion of a training program or relevant work experience |
| Exam | Passing the PTCE or ExCPT exam |
| Continuing Education | Completion of 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years |
Career Pathways for Certified Pharmacy Technicians
Certified pharmacy technicians have a wide range of career pathways to choose from, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top industries for employment are retail pharmacies (73%), hospitals (14%), and clinics (6%). Certified technicians can also pursue specialized roles, such as pharmacy informatics, pharmacy management, or pharmaceutical research.
Specialized Roles for Certified Pharmacy Technicians
Certified pharmacy technicians can pursue specialized roles, including pharmacy informatics, pharmacy management, or pharmaceutical research. Pharmacy informatics involves the use of technology to improve pharmacy practice, including electronic health records and automated dispensing systems. Pharmacy management involves overseeing the daily operations of a pharmacy, including inventory management, staffing, and customer service. Pharmaceutical research involves working with pharmaceutical companies to develop new medications and conduct clinical trials.
What is the difference between the PTCE and ExCPT exams?
+The PTCE and ExCPT exams are both certification exams for pharmacy technicians, but they are offered by different organizations. The PTCE exam is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), while the ExCPT exam is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both exams test a candidate's knowledge of pharmacy practice, pharmacology, and pharmacy law, but the PTCE exam is more widely recognized and accepted by employers.
How do I maintain my certification as a pharmacy technician?
+To maintain your certification as a pharmacy technician, you must complete continuing education requirements every 2 years. This typically involves completing 20 hours of continuing education, including 1 hour of pharmacy law and 1 hour of patient safety. You must also pay a certification fee and submit your continuing education hours to the certification organization.
What are the job prospects for certified pharmacy technicians?
+The job prospects for certified pharmacy technicians are excellent, with the demand for skilled professionals expected to rise by 7% from 2021 to 2031. Certified technicians can work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, and can pursue specialized roles, such as pharmacy informatics, pharmacy management, or pharmaceutical research.
In conclusion, becoming a certified pharmacy technician can unlock a world of career opportunities and advancement possibilities. By understanding the benefits, requirements, and career pathways available, aspiring pharmacy technicians can make informed decisions about their future and take the first step towards a rewarding and challenging career in healthcare.