Are you interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician? Becoming a certified pharmacy technician can open up a world of opportunities in the healthcare industry. In this blog post, we will walk you through the 10 steps you need to take to become a certified pharmacy technician.
Step 1: Research the Requirements
Before starting on your journey to become a certified pharmacy technician, it’s important to research the requirements in your state. Each state has its own set of guidelines and regulations for pharmacy technicians, so make sure you are familiar with them before proceeding.
Step 2: Complete a Pharmacy Technician Program
Enroll in a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). These programs typically last between 6 months to 2 years and cover topics such as pharmacy laws, pharmaceutical calculations, and medication dispensing.
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience
Gain practical experience by completing an internship or externship at a pharmacy. This hands-on training will give you the opportunity to work alongside experienced pharmacy technicians and pharmacists, and apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.
Step 4: Prepare for the ExCPT Exam
Once you have completed your pharmacy technician program and gained hands-on experience, it’s time to prepare for the ExCPT exam. This exam is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is required to become a certified pharmacy technician.
Step 5: Take the ExCPT Exam
Schedule a date to take the ExCPT exam at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 110 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmacology. Passing the exam is essential to become a certified pharmacy technician.
Step 6: Apply for Certification
Once you have successfully passed the ExCPT exam, you can apply for certification as a pharmacy technician. Submit your application along with the required documentation to the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) to receive your certification.
Step 7: Continue Your Education
Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of pharmacy by continuing your education. Consider pursuing advanced certifications or taking continuing education courses to enhance your skills and knowledge as a pharmacy technician.
Step 8: Gain Work Experience
Start working as a certified pharmacy technician to gain valuable work experience. Whether you work in a retail pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, or specialty pharmacy, gaining experience will help you further develop your skills and advance in your career.
Step 9: Consider Specializing
Explore opportunities to specialize in a specific area of pharmacy, such as compounding, sterile products, or medication therapy management. Specializing can set you apart from other pharmacy technicians and open up new career paths.
Step 10: Stay Committed to Professional Development
Stay committed to your professional development as a pharmacy technician by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars. Networking with other healthcare professionals and staying informed about industry trends will help you stay on top of your game.
In conclusion, becoming a certified pharmacy technician requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to professional growth. By following these 10 steps, you can embark on a rewarding career in the field of pharmacy. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experience on becoming a certified pharmacy technician, feel free to leave a comment below.
Happy studying!