- Pharmacy technicians perform essential tasks that do not require the pharmacist's expertise
- Pharmacy technicians work under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist who is legally responsible for their performance
- Specific responsibilities and tasks for pharmacy technicians differ by setting and are described by each employer through job descriptions, policy and procedure manuals, and other documents
- Having technicians perform these tasks gives the pharmacist more time for activities that require a greater level of expertise, such as consulting with patients
- What individuals may or may not do in their jobs is often referred to as their scope of practice
- Most pharmacy technicians are employed in community pharmacies and hospitals but they are also employed in clinics, home care, long term care, mail order prescription pharmacies, and various other settings
- Hospitals and other environments have specialized technician jobs that require more advanced training and skills
Personal Standards
- Pharmacy technicians are entrusted with confidential patient information, dangerous substances, and perishable products
- Drugs, whether prescription or over the counter, can be dangerous if misused, and mistakes by pharmacy technicians can be life threatening
- Pharmacy technicians routinely perform mathematical calculations in filling prescriptions and other activities
- Pharmacy technicians must learn the specific pharmaceutical terminology that will be used on the job
- Pharmacy technicians most be able to communicate, cooperate, and work effectively with others
Training and Competency
- Standards for pharmacy technician training and/or competency are established by the state boards of pharmacy; regulations vary considerably but most states require some form of technician training
Certification
- Although certification is mainly voluntary, many states recognize national certification and some require pharmacy technicians to take the PTCE, ExCPT, or other exam approved by their state board
- The CPhT designation, Certified Pharmacy Technician, is good for two years. It verifies an individual's competence as a technician, and indicates a high level of knowledge and skill
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