Using Continuing Education to Stay Current in Pharmacy Practice

Table of Contents

What is Continuing Education in Pharmacy Technician Career?

Definition of Continuing Education

Continuing education refers to the ongoing process of learning and acquiring new knowledge, skills, and competencies beyond initial training or certification. It is designed to keep professionals up-to-date with the latest developments in their field and maintain their competence throughout their career.

For pharmacy technicians, continuing education is an essential component of professional practice. It helps them adapt to changing regulations, emerging technologies, and evolving patient care needs. Through continuing education, pharmacy technicians can expand their scope of practice, improve patient outcomes, and contribute effectively to the healthcare team.

Benefits of Continuing Education

Continuing education offers numerous benefits to pharmacy technicians. Let’s explore some of them:

Stay Updated: The field of pharmacy is constantly evolving with new medications, regulations, and technologies. Continuing education ensures that pharmacy technicians stay updated with these changes, enabling them to provide the best possible care to patients.
Enhance Skills: Continuing education programs provide opportunities for pharmacy technicians to enhance their skills and acquire new ones. They can learn about advanced medication therapy management techniques, compounding practices, medication safety protocols, and more. These enhanced skills enable technicians to perform their duties efficiently and effectively.
Expand Career Opportunities: Continuing education can open doors to new career opportunities for pharmacy technicians. By acquiring specialized knowledge and skills, technicians can pursue roles in areas such as nuclear pharmacy, oncology pharmacy, or sterile compounding. These advanced career paths often come with higher salaries and increased job satisfaction.
Professional Recognition: Continuing education demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and competence. It enhances the professional image of pharmacy technicians and may lead to recognition by employers, colleagues, and regulatory bodies. It also strengthens the credibility of the profession as a whole.
Networking: Participating in continuing education programs allows pharmacy technicians to connect with other professionals in their field. Networking opportunities can foster collaborations, knowledge sharing, and professional support.

Continuing education is not only beneficial for individual pharmacy technicians but also for the overall quality of patient care. By staying up-to-date with the latest advancements, pharmacy technicians contribute to improved medication safety, better patient outcomes, and enhanced healthcare delivery.

If you are interested in further exploring continuing education opportunities for pharmacy technicians, you can visit reputable websites such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These organizations offer valuable resources and information on continuing education programs and certifications.

Remember, as a pharmacy technician, your commitment to lifelong learning through continuing education will ensure your professional success and contribute to the advancement of the pharmacy profession as a whole.

Continuing Education Courses for Pharmacy Technicians: Requirements and Renewal

Continuing education plays a crucial role in the development and growth of pharmacy technicians. As healthcare professionals, pharmacy technicians are responsible for various tasks related to medication management, inventory control, and patient care. To ensure their competence and keep up with the evolving field of pharmacy, it is important for pharmacy technicians to participate in continuing education courses. In this article, we will explore who needs to take these courses and the requirements for licensing and certification renewal.

Who Needs to Take Continuing Education Courses?

Continuing education courses are necessary for all pharmacy technicians who wish to maintain their professional credentials and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. These courses are designed to enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities, enabling them to provide safe and efficient pharmaceutical services to patients.

Pharmacy technicians working in various settings, such as retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies, should actively seek opportunities for continuing education. Additionally, technicians looking to advance their careers or pursue specialized certifications can benefit greatly from these courses.

Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians

In order to become a pharmacy technician, individuals must meet certain requirements as set forth by state regulatory bodies. These requirements may vary from state to state, but generally include:

High school diploma or equivalent
Completion of an accredited pharmacy technician training program
Passing a national certification exam (such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam – PTCE or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians – ExCPT)
Criminal background check

Once these requirements are met, individuals can work as pharmacy technicians and gain practical experience in the field. However, it is important to note that the journey does not end here. Pharmacy technicians are expected to engage in continuing education to maintain their professional competence.

Licensing and Certification Renewal Requirements

Pharmacy technician licenses and certifications have expiration dates, typically ranging from one to two years. To renew these credentials, technicians are required to fulfill specific continuing education requirements, which may include:

Completing a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) or contact hours
Attending seminars, workshops, or conferences related to pharmacy practice
Participating in online courses or webinars
Obtaining specialized certifications in areas such as sterile compounding or chemotherapy

It is essential for pharmacy technicians to keep track of their renewal dates and plan their continuing education activities accordingly. Failure to meet the renewal requirements may result in the suspension or loss of their license or certification.

In addition to fulfilling the mandatory continuing education requirements, pharmacy technicians should also consider taking courses that align with their professional goals and interests. These courses can provide opportunities for career advancement and specialization, enhancing their value in the job market.

Pharmacy technicians can find various resources for continuing education, including professional organizations, colleges and universities, online platforms, and industry conferences. These resources offer a wide range of courses covering topics such as pharmacology, medication safety, pharmacy law and ethics, and emerging technologies in pharmacy practice.

By actively engaging in continuing education, pharmacy technicians demonstrate their commitment to delivering high-quality pharmaceutical care and staying updated with the latest advancements in the field. It is an investment in their professional growth and the well-being of the patients they serve.

For more information on pharmacy technician continuing education and licensing requirements, you can visit the following authoritative websites:

III. Where Can You Find Accredited Continuing Education Courses?

Continuing education is essential for pharmacy technicians to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in their field. It not only enhances their knowledge and skills but also ensures they meet the requirements for maintaining their certification. Accredited continuing education courses can be found through various sources, including professional organizations and associations as well as online resources.

A. Professional Organizations and Associations

Professional organizations and associations play a crucial role in providing educational resources and opportunities for pharmacy technicians. Here are some reputable organizations to consider:

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): PTCB offers a wide range of continuing education courses, including live webinars, online modules, and self-study programs. These courses cover various topics relevant to pharmacy practice and are designed to help technicians maintain their certification.
National Healthcareer Association (NHA): NHA provides continuing education courses specifically tailored to pharmacy technicians. These courses are accessible online and cover subjects such as medication safety, pharmacy calculations, and drug interactions.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): ASHP offers a range of educational resources, including accredited continuing education courses, conferences, and workshops. These resources focus on the latest developments in pharmacy practice, patient safety, and medication management.

B. Online Resources for Pharmacy Technicians

The internet has made it easier than ever for pharmacy technicians to access accredited continuing education courses. Here are some reputable online resources:

Power-Pak C.E.: Power-Pak C.E. provides a wide selection of free continuing education courses for pharmacy technicians. These courses cover various therapeutic areas and pharmacy practice topics. They offer both live webinars and self-paced online modules.
FreeCE: FreeCE offers accredited continuing education courses for pharmacy technicians, including live webinars, on-demand webcasts, and home study programs. They cover topics such as pharmacy law, patient counseling, and medication safety.
Pharmacy Times: Pharmacy Times provides a range of educational resources for pharmacy professionals, including continuing education courses. These courses cover topics like immunizations, diabetes management, and compounding techniques.

Remember to always verify the accreditation status of any continuing education course you choose to ensure it meets the requirements set by your state’s board of pharmacy or certifying organization.

Continuing education plays a vital role in the professional development of pharmacy technicians. By staying current with the latest advancements in their field, technicians can provide the highest level of care to patients and contribute to the overall success of the pharmacy profession.

How to Ensure that Your Pharmacy Technician Coursework is Accredited

Aspiring pharmacy technicians understand the importance of completing an accredited coursework program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain standards and prepares students for a successful career in this field. If you are considering enrolling in a pharmacy technician program, it is crucial to verify its accreditation status. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your coursework is accredited:

Check with Your State Board of Pharmacy

The first step in determining the accreditation status of a pharmacy technician program is to consult your State Board of Pharmacy. Each state has its own requirements and regulations for pharmacy technicians, including the accreditation standards for educational programs. The State Board of Pharmacy can provide you with a list of approved programs in your area.

Visit the website of your State Board of Pharmacy and look for a section dedicated to pharmacy technician education. This section should provide information about accredited programs, including their names, locations, and contact information. Note down the names of the accredited programs in your area for further research.

Here are some examples of State Boards of Pharmacy websites where you can find information on accredited pharmacy technician programs:

Once you have identified the accredited programs in your state, you can move on to the next step.

Verify Accreditation with a Recognized Accrediting Agency

The next step is to verify the accreditation status of the pharmacy technician program with a recognized accrediting agency. These agencies evaluate and accredit educational programs to ensure they meet certain quality standards.

The two primary accrediting agencies for pharmacy technician programs are the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). These agencies have rigorous standards that programs must meet to receive accreditation.

Visit the websites of ASHP (www.ashp.org) and ACPE (www.acpe-accredit.org) to search for accredited pharmacy technician programs. Use the list of accredited programs provided by your State Board of Pharmacy as a reference.

If a program is accredited by either ASHP or ACPE, it is considered reputable and meets the necessary standards for pharmacy technician education.

Consider Other Factors

While accreditation is an essential factor to consider, there are other aspects you should also evaluate before choosing a pharmacy technician program. These include:

The program’s curriculum and coursework: Ensure that the program covers all the necessary topics required for pharmacy technician certification.
Hands-on training opportunities: Look for programs that provide practical experience through internships or externships in pharmacies.
Graduation and job placement rates: Research the program’s success in graduating students and helping them find employment in the field.
Cost and financial aid options: Evaluate the program’s affordability and inquire about available scholarships, grants, or loans.

By considering these factors in addition to accreditation, you can make an informed decision about which pharmacy technician program is best suited for your educational needs and career goals.

Remember, accreditation ensures that the program you choose meets recognized standards and will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed as a pharmacy technician.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the pharmacy technician career offers a promising and rewarding path for individuals interested in the medical field. As we have explored in this article, pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and effective delivery of medications to patients. They work closely with pharmacists, healthcare professionals, and customers to provide quality pharmaceutical services.

By obtaining the necessary education and certification, pharmacy technicians gain the knowledge and skills required to excel in this field. They are responsible for various tasks such as medication preparation, inventory management, customer service, and administrative duties. With the increasing demand for prescription medications, the need for qualified pharmacy technicians continues to grow.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion:

1. Importance of Education and Certification: Completing a pharmacy technician program and obtaining certification is essential to enter this profession. Accredited programs provide comprehensive training in areas such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, compounding, and medication safety.

2. Job Responsibilities: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in various tasks, including medication dispensing, inventory management, compounding medications, and providing customer service. They must have strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills.

3. Career Advancement Opportunities: Pharmacy technicians can advance their careers by gaining experience, pursuing specialized certifications, or continuing their education to become pharmacists or pharmacy managers. Continuous professional development is crucial to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

4. Job Outlook and Salary: The demand for pharmacy technicians is expected to increase in the coming years due to factors such as an aging population and the expansion of healthcare services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,020 in May 2020.

5. Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) can provide networking opportunities, access to resources, and career support.

If you are considering a career as a pharmacy technician, it is important to thoroughly research educational programs and certification requirements in your area. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience through internships or externships can provide valuable practical skills.

For more information on the pharmacy technician profession, you can visit the following authoritative websites:

– Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): https://www.ptcb.org/
– National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): https://www.pharmacytechnician.org/
– American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): https://www.pharmacytechnician.com/

Embarking on a career as a pharmacy technician can be a fulfilling journey for those interested in healthcare and helping others. With the right education, certification, and dedication to professional growth, pharmacy technicians can make a significant impact on patient care and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.