Pharmacy Technician Careers: 4 Reasons to Make the Switch

 If you have been considering a career shift to healthcare, now is an ideal time to take the plunge. The healthcare sector is experiencing significant growth, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 15% increase in employment from 2019 to 2029. Among the many roles in this sector, pharmacy technicians are in high demand, with an estimated 400,000 positions expected to offer competitive salaries. This surge is driven by an aging population and an increasing need for healthcare professionals. Whether you are an experienced pharmacy technician or considering entering the field, here is what you need to know about becoming a pharmacy tech and why it's a worthwhile career choice.

Understanding the Role of a Pharmacy Technician

To appreciate the importance of pharmacy technicians, it is crucial to understand their daily responsibilities. Under the supervision of registered pharmacists, pharmacy technicians perform a variety of tasks, including:

  • Collecting pertinent information from patients, customers, and healthcare professionals for medication processing.

  • Preparing and labeling medications.

  • Managing inventory and handling prescriptions.

  • Performing administrative functions such as answering phones and assisting with insurance claims.

These responsibilities highlight the essential role pharmacy technicians play in ensuring the smooth operation of a pharmacy and the safety of patients.

1. High Demand and Job Security

Pharmacy technicians will continue to be in high demand in the coming years. They are employed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, insurance companies, community pharmacies, home infusion pharmacies, and clinics. The BLS attributes this demand to several factors:

  • The development of new drugs.

  • A general shortage of registered pharmacists in the U.S.

  • An aging population requiring more medical services.

Recent BLS statistics project a 4% growth in employment opportunities for pharmacy technicians over the next eight years. As of 2019, the average salary for a pharmacy technician was $33,950 annually, making it a stable and lucrative career choice.

2. Making a Difference in Patient Care

Pharmacy technicians are often perceived as merely assisting with prescriptions, but their role is vital in ensuring patient safety. They possess knowledge about prescription and non-prescription drugs, including their uses, contraindications, and side effects. This expertise helps prevent medication errors and misuse of over-the-counter drugs, ultimately saving lives.

3. Opportunities for Career Advancement

Pharmacy technicians have ample opportunities for career advancement, especially with the establishment of certification programs. As they gain more experience, they can move up the career ladder to positions such as:

  • Lead pharmacy technician.

  • Pharmacy technician supervisor.

  • Specialty pharmacy technician.

  • Transitioning into other healthcare professions.

Certification programs, such as those offered by the Air Force COOL Certification Program, provide additional credentials that can enhance a technician’s career prospects.

4. Flexible and Accessible Education Options

One of the significant advantages of becoming a pharmacy technician is the accessibility of education and certification programs. You can complete a pharmacy technician course and become certified in as little as four months through online programs offered by regionally accredited schools in the U.S. Some notable institutions offering these programs include:

  • Auburn University (mycaa auburn university, auburn university mycaa programs)

  • Clemson University

  • Fresno Pacific University

  • Louisiana State University - Shreveport

  • Texas A&M University - Texarkana

These programs provide flexibility, allowing learners to study at their own pace and location. Students also receive aids and materials, such as books, laptops, mentor support, career assistance, and access to micro-credential courses.

For those facing financial constraints, several grants and funding options are available, including the MyCAA grant and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs. The WIOA grant Alabama and WIOA programs Alabama offer financial assistance to eligible individuals seeking training and certification in high-demand fields.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

To start your journey as a pharmacy technician, follow these steps:

  1. Research and Choose a Program: Look for accredited programs that offer comprehensive training and certification. Auburn University, through its mycaa auburn university programs, is a great place to start.

  2. Apply for Grants and Financial Aid: Explore options like the MyCAA grant, WIOA grant Alabama, and other funding opportunities to help cover tuition costs.

  3. Complete the Program: Enroll in the chosen program and complete the required coursework. Take advantage of resources such as mentor support and career assistance.

  4. Get Certified: After completing the program, obtain certification through recognized bodies. Certification enhances your job prospects and potential for career advancement.

  5. Seek Employment: Utilize job placement services and your professional network to find employment in various healthcare settings.

Conclusion

A career as a pharmacy technician offers numerous benefits, including high demand, job security, opportunities to make a difference in patient care, and potential for career advancement. With accessible education options and financial assistance programs like mycaa auburn university, auburn university mycaa programs, wioa programs alabama, and the air force cool certification program, becoming a pharmacy technician is an attainable and rewarding goal. Start your journey today and join the growing field of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving patient outcomes.

For more information on programs and how to get started, visit the US Career Training Programs website.

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