The role of the pharmacy technician is to assist the pharmacist in the filling of prescriptions, ordering of medications, communications with medical offices, customer service, and overall operations of the pharmacy. Pharmacy technicians may work in retail, mail-order or hospital settings. In the hospital, pharmacy technicians have the added duties of IV medication preparation and medication delivery throughout the hospital. Pharmacy technician training can be completed by a certificate or 2-year A.S. degree program. Upon completion, a student can sit for the national pharmacy certification exam, and use the initials CPhT upon passing. Many states also require licensing of pharmacy technicians in addition to national certification. Certification and licensing must be renewed every 2 years, and requires the completion of continuing education for renewal. Pharmacy technicians work solely indoors, but may come into contact with hazardous materials, such as chemotherapy medications. The ideal pharmacy technician has great people skills, is organized, and has good math skills. Work hours vary, and often include nights, holidays, and weekends. Pharmacy technicians are always in high demand, and command a salary in the range of 10-14 dollars an hour starting out.
Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPHT) Tasks
- Prepare dosage medications for dispensing into bottles and unit dose packaging.
- Assist in preparing and dispensing medication under direct supervision of Pharmacist.
- Select, prepare and stock medications and supplies.
- Collect patient information for prescription and billing.
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Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPHT) Overview
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Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPHT) Hourly Rate
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