Day In the Life of A Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technician

Pharmacy technicians and pharmacists are one of the least understood professions in the health sector. Sometimes ridiculed as “pill counters”, pharmacists actually have complex jobs which require education. When patients are given prescriptions for their ailments, there are several factors which affect the manner in which the medication will improve or damage their health. Pharmacists need to pay detailed attention to the way each type of medication will react with another as well as how it will affect the daily lives of patients. They must ensure that medication is administered safely and in appropriate amounts.

A pharmacy technician is a pharmacist’s second in charge, and is responsible for a variety of tasks which facilitate the distribution of medication to patients. While you need to constantly work under the supervision of a pharmacist, there are some responsibilities that come with the job. A day in the life of a pharmacy technician will typically include:

  • Counting pills
  • Labeling medication bottles
  • Carrying out administrative tasks such as answering phones, handling insurance billing and operating cash registers
  • Maintaining inventory of medication
  • Processing prescriptions
  • Answering questions or referring patients to the pharmacist for further review

One of the benefits of being a pharmacy technician is the flexibility that comes with the job. Although most work is based in the pharmacy, it is possible to secure employment in mail order pharmaceutical companies, retail settings, large doctor’s offices, nursing homes and hospitals. As a pharmacy technician you can expect the regular 9am to 5pm working hours, although you may be required to work weekend and night shifts in 24 hour pharmacies.

How to Become a Pharmacy Technician

A pharmacy technician program normally takes one to two years, with the potential of culminating in an Associate’s degree. Pay rates are normally in the range of $10 to $20 per hour, with higher salaries for more experience.

The entire field of pharmacology is very strong and dynamic, and more than likely to stay for many years to come. Job stability is high, and relatively low pressure means that you’ll likely be able to remain without having to worry of burning out.

Want to learn more about working as a Pharmacy Technician? Check out our Careers page for more information on salary, employment rates and more!

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