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Healthcare Pharmacy Technician
Hourly Rates up to Jobs Available
$37 48,200+

What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do?

Many jobs in healthcare require an educational commitment that’s out of reach for many, but here’s an exception. 

Pharmacy technicians, also called pharmacy techs, help dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals. They work under the supervision of a pharmacist. They receive prescriptions and confirm their accuracy. They measure out, package and label medications. 

A pharmacy tech is a key link between the customer and the pharmacist. Their understanding of drug interactions and terminology can make a difference in a customer’s understanding of a condition or treatment.

In many states, they can also compound or mix medications. Some technicians specialize in oncology or chemotherapy drugs.

Pharmacy technicians work in retail drug stores and hospitals. In hospital pharmacies, technicians are dealing primarily with other health professions, filling prescriptions or working with IV bags under sterile conditions.

If this sounds like a good fit for you, keep reading to learn more.
 

A pharmacy technician checks prescriptions
When it comes to medicine, details matter. That’s why pharmacy technicians need strong math skills in addition to a good memory. (Credit: sirtravelalot/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

  • Collect information needed to fill prescription requests from customers or health professionals
  • Measure medication
  • Understand the names, uses and doses of medications
  • Organize inventory and alert pharmacists to any shortages 
  • Accept payment for prescriptions and process insurance claims
  • Enter patient information into a computer system
  • Answer phone calls
  • Maintain safety by adhering to infection-control procedures and regulations

 

Becoming a Pharmacy Tech: FAQs

The bottom line:

This is a career that offers entry to the healthcare profession without a bachelor’s degree. If you like working with people and are organized, this job could be a good fit. Plus, it’s a career with plenty of opportunity to keep learning. Interested? Check out SkillPointe’s training portal, which connects you to programs near you.

Pharmacy technician Chris Hicks in Charlottesville, Virginia

What is it like to be a pharmacy tech?

Chris Hicks is the pharmacy director at the nonprofit Charlottesville Free Clinic in Virginia. 

He's been a pharmacy tech for 16 years  — long enough to see that no matter the type of clinic they work in, pharmacy techs can make a difference. 

"You get to play a small part in healing and treating patients," he says. 

Find out more about what it's like to do this job

Local Certifications and Requirements

You may need a state license or certificate before you can work in a specific career in your state. Different states may also have different education and experience requirements, fees and application forms. The good news - we make it super easy to find what you need to begin your new career. Just enter your zip code to get started.

Find Pharmacy Technician Training In Your Area

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