If you want to opt for a vocation where you can serve patients, tend to their ailments and, at the same time, get involved in the drug industry, what can be more fitting than being a pharmacy technician? Around the country, pharmacies provide medication to people in need. The major role is played by the pharmacists or health professionals who take care of the patient's diseases and their medications. The technicians are generally appointed to lend a helping hand and assist the pharmacists. They provide pharmaceutical care in some cases.
To know how to become a pharmacy tech you should be well aware of the prospects and kind of training required.
Career Prospects
The pharmaceutical industry is a fast growing profession and is expected to grow 32% from the year 2006 to 2016. Pharmacy technicians passing out from genuine institutions are employed in dispensaries or pharmacies. According to surveys, two third of the trainees work in retail pharmacies and drug stores. They work independently or under a retail chain and, sometimes, also in biomedical laboratories. A section of the remaining technicians are appointed in hospitals where they carry out clinical roles and provide medication. Technicians also get involved with the internet pharmacies where they offer counsel and work by mail order. They also serve the Federal Government and tend to warfare patients.
To know how to become a pharmacy tech you should be well aware of the prospects and kind of training required.
Career Prospects
The pharmaceutical industry is a fast growing profession and is expected to grow 32% from the year 2006 to 2016. Pharmacy technicians passing out from genuine institutions are employed in dispensaries or pharmacies. According to surveys, two third of the trainees work in retail pharmacies and drug stores. They work independently or under a retail chain and, sometimes, also in biomedical laboratories. A section of the remaining technicians are appointed in hospitals where they carry out clinical roles and provide medication. Technicians also get involved with the internet pharmacies where they offer counsel and work by mail order. They also serve the Federal Government and tend to warfare patients.
Basic Training Programs
At many healthcare units, pharmacy technicians are employed without any formal training. However certain facilities prefer their employees to undergo training and certificate courses before they join work. There are some institutions where such trainings are provided, but those certificates are voluntary. Certificate renewal has to be done in every 2 years through 20 hours additional education program. The Institute for The Certification of Pharmacy Technician offers national certificates for the aspiring. Many pharmacies run internship curriculum where the students are given hands on experience. Other than that, diploma or degree programs are offered by many hospitals, technical colleges, armed forces and proprietary schools.
Educational Requirements
For suitable employment, you should be well acquainted with the various jobs performed by a pharmacy tech. The Pharmacy Technician degree and diploma programs provide students with appropriate knowledge and experience. As basics, they teach you preparing and dispensing medications, proper maintenance of medical records, stocking of drugs and labeling of prescribed medications. You are also taught customer service skills and demonstration abilities.
Remuneration
Your earnings can vary with your work place. Your know-how also counts and as you grow to be an experienced professional, your pharmacy technician salary also sees the high. For a beginner, the offered pharmacy tech salary is around $27,384 to $33,933. However for those at a higher rank, the salary goes up to $37,097. For others, the salary falls in between. With increasing job prospects and demand, pharmacy technicians are gradually making more money.