Careers in the healthcare sector are among the fastest growing and show no signs of deceleration. As a pharmacy technician, work consists of helping the pharmacists with jobs such as counting the medication, labeling it properly, verifying prescription information with the originating doctor and more. Each state has certain restrictions and guidelines in which the pharmacy tech must follow, so what is allowable in one state, may not be tolerated in another. A pharmacy technician certification shows one has passed a course of study with the knowledge to succeed in pharmaceutical setting, handling duties according to state law and the rules of the employer.
The environments for this job vary. Aside from stand-alone settings, a pharmacy technician certification works in hospitals, medical buildings and nursing homes helping with the dispensation of medication daily. Individuals under care in nursing homes find themselves face to face with techs as they dole out required medication under strict schedules.
Work hours vary. Some employees have set hours, especially those working in pharmacy open from day to night, seven days of the week. In a hospital or nursing home, the hours include those late in the evening, weekends, and overnight. Techs need to know and have a basic understanding of the drugs in which they handle. With much work done on a public level, employers look for those that have a professional, friendly, but firm demeanor.
Not all states require techs be certified, though it certainly helps gain the confidence of a potential employer. That being said, other states require techs go through certification programs and continually re-certify after a certain amount of time lapses to keep workers sharp and promote the safety of patients.
Vocational schools and two-year colleges offer pharmacy technician certification. These classes can last anywhere from under a year to two years, depending on the program and educational facility. As one becomes more knowledgeable in the field, the opportunity for salary growth increases, especially for those who have had formal training prior to employment. Some enjoy the work so much, they take it a step further and continue the educational requirements to become a licensed pharmacist.