A career that is on the rise is that of a pharmacy technician. Pharmaceutical businesses and advances in scientific research have increased the need for more pharmacy technicians. According to the pharmacy association report, there are close to 40,000 job openings in this field every year.
One of the reasons for the increase in the need for pharmacy technicians is because pharmacists want to have more one-on-one, hands-on time with their patients. Therefore, pharmacy technicians assume more responsibility with the prescriptions and medications handed out.
In addition, more people are getting older and living longer, creating an even bigger need for pharmacy technicians to handle the increase in the number of prescriptions. This also creates more of a need for pharmacists to provide excellent patient care and technicians to apply their knowledge and take on more responsibility with pharmaceuticals. Pharmacists need dependable technicians working alongside them.
What does a pharmacy technician do? Under the direct supervision of licensed pharmacists, technicians are responsible for many duties. Here is a description of what they do:
- Label prescription containers and bottles
- Count medication
- Check accuracy of prescription
- Measure medication
- Keep track of insurance information
- Help patients fill out insurance forms
- Check patient medical records
A pharmacy technician career will continue to be in demand as an aging and growing population requires more medications. This will create an increased need for qualified pharmacy technicians to perform such tasks as counting medication, managing the shelves and handling insurance paperwork. Opportunities will exist in many different settings – creating flexibility, stability and reward for pharmacy technicians nationwide.
