8 Reasons to Become a Pharmacy Technician
If you’re looking for a career in health and medicine that allows you to impact lives every day, you’re looking for a position as a pharmacy technician. This medical career is an excellent fit for these several reasons.
Recent predictions from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts significant growth for the pharmacy technician career field. Positions are expected to grow 5% until 2031, creating an estimated 43,500 new job openings each year. Driven by aging populations and an increased demand for pharmaceutical services, this growth represents a significant opportunity for anyone interested in a pharmacy technician career.
Why should I become a pharmacy technician?
It's important to note that job availability for pharmacy technician careers may vary depending on the location. Some areas will have a higher demand for pharmacy technician positions than others.
Certain states may have different regulations and certification requirements, which may affect the job market. Overall, the outlook for pharmacy technician jobs is positive and expected to be a stable and a growing field with many job opportunities in the future.
Here are some of the main benefits to a pharmacy technician job:
- Job security: The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to grow as the population ages, and as more people need medication to manage chronic conditions.
- Good pay: Pharmacy technicians typically earn a good salary and may be eligible for benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
- Flexibility: Pharmacy technicians can work in various settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, which allow for more flexibility regarding where they work.
- Opportunities for advancement: Experienced pharmacy technicians may have the opportunity to take on more responsibilities and advance to supervisory or management roles.
- A career that improves lives: Pharmacy technicians are critical in ensuring patients receive medication. They can make a real difference in people's lives by helping them manage their health.
- Continual education: Pharmacy technicians must continue their education to stay updated on the latest developments in the field, which could be a good opportunity for those who enjoy learning and self-improvement.
- Positive work-life balance: Pharmacy technicians typically work regular hours and may have weekends and evenings off, which could benefit those who want to balance their work and personal lives.
- Various work setting options: Pharmacy technicians can work in various settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, mail-order pharmacies, and more. This allows them to choose the best setting that suits their skills and interests.
How to advance in pharmacy technician career
Strong candidates will have opportunities to advance their careers soon after becoming a pharmacy technician. These opportunities can include:
- Additional certifications or credentials: Many organizations offer advanced certifications for pharmacy technicians, including the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) certification. A certification can demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and commitment to the profession and make you a more valuable employee.
- Further education: Consider pursuing a degree in a related healthcare field, such as a bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology or healthcare management. This can provide you with additional knowledge and skills and open new career opportunities.
- Specialize: Look into specific areas of pharmacy that interest you, such as long-term care or nuclear pharmacy, and gain experience.
- Network: Attend professional meetings and events, join professional organizations, and connect with other pharmacy technicians. This can help you learn about new opportunities and make valuable connections in the healthcare industry.
- Take on additional responsibilities: Volunteer to take on additional responsibilities at your current job, such as training new employees or leading a project. This can demonstrate your leadership skills and commitment to the organization and make you a more valuable employee.
- Seek new job opportunities: Keep an eye out for job openings that align with your career goals and qualifications.
Look for opportunities to improve your clinical, technical, and administrative skills. Remember that your specific career advancement opportunities will depend on your qualifications, the healthcare organization you work for, and the current job market.
Top skills for pharmacy technicians
A good pharmacy technician is someone who has the following characteristics and skills:
- Attention to detail: Pharmacy technicians must be able to accurately measure, mix, and label medication, as well as maintain accurate patient and medication records.
- Strong organizational skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to keep track of medication inventory and schedules, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively.
- Communication skills: Pharmacy technicians must communicate effectively with patients, healthcare professionals, and other pharmacy team members.
- Technical skills: Pharmacy technicians must be familiar with the equipment and technology used in a pharmacy, such as computer systems and automated dispensing machines.
- Math skills: Pharmacy technicians must be able to perform calculations when measuring and mixing medications.
- Physical stamina: Pharmacy technicians may be required to stand for extended periods, lift heavy containers or bags of medication, and move them around.
- Flexibility: Pharmacy technicians must be able to adapt to changes in workload and work well under pressure.
- Customer service: Pharmacy technicians should be able to provide excellent customer service, addressing patients' concerns and questions in a professional and friendly manner.
- Compliance: Pharmacy technicians must be able to follow strict laws, regulations, and protocols and stay up-to-date on changes in the field.
- Strong work ethic: Pharmacy technicians must be reliable, committed, and willing to take on additional responsibilities as needed.
- Ability To learn quickly: Pharmacy technicians must learn and adapt to new procedures, technologies, and regulations in the field.
- Empathy and compassion: Pharmacy technicians should have genuine care and concern for the patient's well-being.
These skills can help you excel as a pharmacy technician and increase employability.
How do I get started as a pharmacy technician?
Learn the skills and get the training you need to start a rewarding career as a Pharmacy Technician with Health Tech Academy.
The program offers 100% online, self-paced learning, allowing you to study at your own convenience. Additionally, you'll receive 1:1 career coaching and mentorship from experienced professionals in the field. The program's career-focused content is curated by industry experts, ensuring that you're equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your career as a pharmacy technician. The program is designed to get you job-ready in just 16 weeks, and you'll be eligible to take the ExCPT pharmacy technician certification exam upon completion. Furthermore, an optional apprenticeship is available for those who want on-the-job training and skills assessment.
Now is a great time to enter the healthcare industry – entry-level allied healthcare professionals are in high demand. Learn to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician in 16 weeks with Health Tech Academy's Bootcamp.
Take the first step toward your future: schedule your free career strategy session with our team.
