Thora Ann Brown is a clinical pharmacist and freelance writer in Greensboro, NC. She obtained her Doctor of Pharmacy at Campbell University School of Pharmacy. Her Blog

Technicians not only help the pharmacist in the preparation and dispensing of medications, they also help customers get what they need to feel better. This is one of the rewarding aspects of being a pharmacy technician. Another gratifying facet is that technicians get to know their customers or patients on a more personal level; technicians deal with the public just as the pharmacist does, so they get a feel of what their patients like or don’t like, and some even know the patients’ life stories. Some patients feel that they can confide in the pharmacist and technicians because they encounter them whenever the patient picks up a medication.

Pharmacy technicians also have to deal with the not-so-nice customers. You know what it is like to be sick—didn’t you want to get better as soon as possible? Well, so do these patients, and some are rather impatient. Technicians encounter all kinds of people with different personalities, some not so pleasant or polite. In order to work in a pharmacy, you are going to have to learn not to take things personally—patients just get frustrated sometimes, and they tend to take it out on technicians since they are usually in the frontline of the pharmacy.

Overall, being a pharmacy technician is a great, satisfying career. If you like working with the public and helping people, this is the career for you.

Thora Ann Brown is a Clinical Pharmacist and freelance writer based in Greensboro, NC. Her credentials include a degree from the Campbell University School of Pharmacy, Buies Creek, NC; Doctor of Pharmacy, 2009 North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC; BS Biological Sciences, minor in Genetics, 2004 Professional memberships: American Medical Writers Association, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Inc., North Carolina Association of Pharmacists, American Pharmacists Association.

Being a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding experience. Having the opportunity to help people can make a person feel good about themselves. As a pharmacy technician you will have that opportunity. Whether you work in the retail or hospital setting, you will be helping someone to get better. 

Although being a technician can be rewarding, it can also be demanding and competitive. There are several things that you can do in order to be successful in the pharmacy technician program and this career, and this article will talk about those things.

First and foremost, one must study hard to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam, or the PTCE. Certified Technicians have higher pay rates than technicians who are not certified. In addition, job and advancement opportunities are great for Certified Technicians. One way to prepare for the exam is to take one or more PTCB practice exams. These practice exams allow candidates to become familiar with format of the actual exam. The practice exams include the function areas that are included in the actual exam: “Assisting the Pharmacist in Serving Patients,” “Maintaining Medication and Inventory Control Systems,” and “Participating in the Administration and Management of Pharmacy Practice.” There are a total of four different practice exams--two 50-question exams, a 25-question Calculations exam, and another 25-question Practice Medication Usage and Administration exam--and they are available through the PTCB for $29 each.

Another way to be successful as a student is to gain some experience outside of the Technician program. Work at a pharmacy, whether it be retail, hospital, or another setting of your choice. The experience will help you succeed in the program by allowing you to become familiar with medications and how the pharmacy operates.

To be successful when you go out into the workforce you must know the limits and boundaries of the roles and responsibilities of a Pharmacy Technician. Some Technicians that I have worked with thought that they could “play pharmacist” for me, which would have gotten both of us in trouble. For example, if a customer asks a question about a drug or needs help with an OTC item, direct that person to the pharmacist and do not try to help them yourself. That is beyond your scope of knowledge and duty, and the pharmacist can be held liable if something should happen. Some other helpful strategies to become successful in the workforce include:

-Treating your customers/patients and the people you work for with kindness and respect.

-Not letting your certification lapse by taking the required amount of CEs.

-Always have a positive attitude no matter how hard the job may be or how overworked you may feel.

I hope that you find this advice helpful to you. Good luck!

blog: drbrownsthoughts.blogspot.com, letstalkaboutracerelations.blogspot.com, www.workingmother.com/blogs/mommy-making-money

Thora Ann Brown is a Clinical Pharmacist and freelance writer based in Greensboro, NC. Her credentials include a degree from the Campbell University School of Pharmacy, Buies Creek, NC; Doctor of Pharmacy, 2009 North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC; BS Biological Sciences, minor in Genetics, 2004 Professional memberships: American Medical Writers Association, Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Inc., North Carolina Association of Pharmacists, American Pharmacists Association.

There are three types of people who are responsible for the operation of a pharmacy: the pharmacist, technicians, and pharmacy assistants or pharmacy aides. Each have different roles to help the pharmacy run efficiently.

Pharmacists differ from pharmacy technicians and aides in that they have been through extensive and rigorous professional schooling. In addition, pharmacists can counsel patients and do the final check before a prescription is dispensed to a patient. The differences in roles of the pharmacy technician and aide, however, are a little bit more blurred.

Many people may think that pharmacy technicians and pharmacy aides are the same and do the exact same things; however, most of the time this is not the case. Pharmacy technicians help the pharmacist in the preparation and dispensing of medications, whereas pharmacy aides assist both the technicians and the pharmacists in administrative duties. These duties include: running the cash register, answering phones, and stocking medications. The ways that technicians help with dispensing is through counting pills and weighing medications, receiving written orders, and labeling prescriptions.

The pharmacy aides’ duties and qualifications are quite limited: they do not need to be certified or registered with the Board of Pharmacy.

Because of this fact, they cannot dispense medication. Pharmacy technicians, on the other hand, can or cannot be certified, but they must be registered with the Board of Pharmacy. This gives them the power to dispense medications. Pharmacy aides also do not need to have a high school diploma to work in the pharmacy, whereas technicians do. It is for this reason that high school students can work in the pharmacy as aides.

Certified technicians can do everything pharmacists can do aside from final verification and patient counseling. Technicians who are not certified cannot do certain things that certified technicians do, such as taking phone-called prescription orders from doctor offices. All technicians, whether certified or not, can do everything that an aide can do. However, an aid cannot do everything that a technician can do.

Another difference between pharmacy technicians and aides is the payscale: pharmacy aides usually get paid less than technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median hourly wage for pharmacy technicians was $13.32 in May 2008, whereas the median wage for aides was only $9.66. Certified technicians get paid even more than non-certified technicians.

Pharmacy technicians and aides may have the same responsibilities in certain states; however, for the most part, they’re roles and responsibilities are quite different. The pharmacy needs both to help the pharmacist and to run the pharmacy smoothly and efficiently.

blog: http://drbrownsthoughts.blogspot.com,
http://letstalkaboutracerelations.blogspot.com,
http://www.workingmother.com/blogs/mommy-making-money

Perhaps you’ve decided that the pharmacy tech career sounds like something you want to pursue. The next step is to get the necessary education and training to land a fulfilling job. With the rapid growth of the pharmacy technician occupation, you’ll find that you have a lot of different schools and programs to choose from. Here we’ll highlight some of the top pharmacy tech schools out there, so you can get an idea of the programs available:

• Newbridge College – With campuses in Santa Ana, Long Beach, and San Diego, California, Newbridge College specializes in career-focused healthcare education. The college has been in the occupational education business for nearly 30 years and is known for its combination of theory and hands-on practical skills.
  The pharmacy tech program lasts 36 weeks and is available through evening and weekend classes. Students study hospital operations, law and ethics, physician’s orders, pharmacy calculations, and more.

• Remington College – Remington College is a nonprofit career college offering technical training in healthcare, business, IT, culinary, electronics, criminal justice, and graphic arts. The college touts is small class sizes and career counseling. Remington College offers programs at 20 campuses located around the U.S.
  The pharmacy technician program is offered at 13 Remington campuses. Students study patient interactions, medical terminology, drugs and pharmacology, and more. Students also study first aid, pharmacy law, and ethics. Graduates are prepared to sit for certification exams offered through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

• Eagle Gate College – Located in Utah, Eagle Gate College specializes in a variety of technical training areas. Students can pursue associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in disciplines such as healthcare, criminal justice, and design and technology. The college offers flexible course schedules so that students can complete their education on a time table that meets their needs.
  Eagle Gate’s pharmacy technician program is accredited and allows students to earn their pharmacy tech diploma in 18 months, on average. Graduates are ready to educate patients on drug issues, calculate and dispense medication, and provide great customer service.

• Kaplan Career Institute – Kaplan Career Institute offers a number of professionally-focused certificates, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Kaplan’s programs are flexible and available in several major metropolitan areas.
  A highlight of Kaplan’s pharmacy tech program are the externship experiences that all students have the opportunity to complete before graduation; these experiences provide hands-on training in retail or hospital pharmacy settings.

Source

Guide to Career Education (2012)

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists is the only national professional organization of hospital and health-system pharmacists. It provides specialized accreditation for pharmacy technician training programs. The organization's high standards for accreditation include experience requirements for all instructors; instructor membership in a national pharmacy organization; and specific guidelines for the training program's curriculum. Below, you will find a state-by-state listing of institutions that offer ASHP-accredited pharmacy technician training programs. More information about the ASHP can be found here.

A - C - F - G - I - K - L - M - N - O - P - R - S - T - U - V - W

Alabama

George C. Wallace State Community College – Hanceville, Hanceville, AL

Arizona

Pima Community College, Tucson, AZ

Arkansas

Arkansas State University – Beebe, Beebe, AR

California

American Career College – Anaheim, Anaheim, CA
American Career College – Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
American Career College – Ontario, Ontario, CA
Cerritos College, Norwalk, CA
Charles A. Jones Career and Education Center, Sacramento, CA
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science, Los Angeles, CA
Everest College – City of Industry, City of Industry, CA
Everest College – Torrance, Torrance, CA
Foothill College (Middlefield Campus), Palo Alto, CA
Modesto Junior College, Modesto, CA
North Orange County Community College District, School of Continuing Education, Anaheim, CA
North-West College – Glendale, Glendale, CA
North-West College – Pasadena, Pasadena, CA
North-West College – Pomona, Pomona, CA
North-West College – West Covina, West Covina, CA
Santa Ana College, Santa Ana, CA
Western Career College – Antioch, Antioch, CA
Western Career College – Citrus Heights, Citrus Heights, CA
Western Career College – Emeryville, Emeryville, CA
Western Career College – Pleasant Hill, Pleasant Hill, CA
Western Career College – Sacramento, Sacramento, CA
Western Career College – San Jose, San Jose, CA
Western Career College – San Leandro, San Leandro, CA
Western Career College – Stockton, Stockton, CA

Colorado

Arapahoe Community College, Littleton, CO
Front Range Community College, Westminster, CO
Pikes Peak Community College, Colorado Springs, CO

Florida

Everest University – Melbourne, Melbourne, FL
Henry W. Brewster Technical Center, Tampa, FL
McFatter Vocational Technical Center, Davie, FL
Pinellas Technical Education Center, St. Petersburg, FL
Sanford Brown Institute – Tampa, Tampa, FL
Sanford-Brown Institute – Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Georgia

Ogeechee Technical College, Statesboro, GA
Southeastern Technical College, Vidalia, GA
Southwest Georgia Technical College, Thomasville, GA
Valdosta Technical College, Valdosta, GA

Illinois

Blessing Hospital, Quincy, IL
Malcolm X College, Chicago, IL
Midwest Technical Institute – Springfield, Springfield, IL
South Suburban College, South Holland, IL
Walgreen Company, Deerfield, IL

Indiana

Clarian Health, Indianapolis, IN

Kentucky

St. Catharine College, St. Catharine, KY

Louisiana

Bossier Parish Community College, Bossier City, LA
Delgado Community College, New Orleans, LA
Louisiana State University at Alexandria, Alexandria, LA

Maryland

Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold, MD

Michigan

Henry Ford Community College, Dearborn, MI
Mid Michigan Community College – Mt. Pleasant, Mt. Pleasant, MI
Washtenaw Community College, Ann Arbor, MI
Wayne County Community College, Detroit, MI

Minnesota

Century College, White Bear Lake, MN
Hibbing Community College, Hibbing, MN
Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Wadena, MN
National American University, Roseville, MN
Northland Community & Technical College, East Grand Forks, MN

Mississippi

Jones County Junior College, Ellisville, MS

Montana

University of Montana – Missoula College of Technology, Missoula, MT

Nebraska

Southeast Community College, Beatrice, NE

Nevada

Career College of Northern Nevada, Reno, NV
College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas, NV
High-Tech Institute – Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV
Kaplan College – Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV
Milan Institute, Sparks, NV
Pima Medical Institute, Las Vegas, NV

New York

Sanford-Brown Institute – Garden City, Garden City, NY

North Carolina

Cape Fear Community College, Wilmington, NC
Durham Technical Community College, Durham, NC

North Dakota

North Dakota State University, Wahpeton, ND

Ohio

Collins Career Center, Chesapeake, OH
Cuyahoga Community College, Highland Hills, OH
Sanford-Brown College – Middleburg Heights, Middleburg Heights, OH

Oregon

Chemeketa Community College, Salem, OR

Pennsylvania

Bidwell Training Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Community College of Allegheny County, West Mifflin, PA
Great Lakes Institute of Technology, Erie, PA
Rite Aid Pharmacy, Camp Hill, PA
Sanford-Brown Institute – Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

Rhode Island

CVS Caremark, Woonsocket, RI

South Carolina

Aiken Technical College, Aiken, SC
Greenville Technical College, Greenville, SC
Horry-Georgetown Technical College, Myrtle Beach, SC
Midlands Technical College, Columbia, SC
Piedmont Technical College, Greenwood, SC
Spartanburg Community College, Spartanburg, SC
Tri-County Technical College, Pendleton, SC
Trident Technical College, Charleston, SC

South Dakota

National American University, Sioux Falls, SD
Southeast Technical Institute, Sioux Falls, SD
Western Dakota Technical Institute, Rapid City, SD

Tennessee

Chattanooga State Technical Community College, Chattanooga, TN
Concorde Career College, Memphis, TN
Roane State Community College, Harriman, TN
Tennessee Technology Center at Jackson, Jackson, TN
Tennessee Technology Center at Memphis, Memphis, TN
Tennessee Technology Center at Murfreesboro, Murfreesboro, TN
Tennessee Technology Center at Nashville, Nashville, TN
Walters State Community College, Morristown, TN

Texas

Amarillo College, Amarillo, TX
Angelina College, Lufkin, TX
Austin Community College, Austin, TX
Cisco College, Abilene, TX
Coleman College of Health Sciences, Houston, TX
College of the Mainland, Texas City, TX
Del Mar College, Corpus Christi, TX
El Paso Community College, El Paso, TX
Lamar State College – Orange, Orange, TX
Lone Star College – Tomball, Tomball, TX
Lone Star College – North Harris, Houston, TX
Northwest Vista College, San Antonio, TX
Richland College, Dallas, TX
San Jacinto College, North, Houston, TX
San Jacinto College, South, Houston, TX
Sanford-Brown College – Houston, Houston, TX
Sanford-Brown Institute – Dallas, Dallas, TX
Sanford-Brown Institute – Houston, Houston, TX
South Texas College, McAllen, TX
The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
U.S. Army Medical Department Center and School, Fort Sam Houston, TX
United States Air Force Pharmacy Training Programs, Sheppard Air Force Base, TX
Vernon College, Wichita Falls, TX
Virginia College at Austin, Austin, TX

Utah

Everest College, Salt Lake City, UT

Virginia

Naval School of Health Sciences, Portsmouth, VA

Washington

Clover Park Technical College, Lakewood, WA
Renton Technical College, Renton, WA
Spokane Community College, Spokane, WA

West Virginia

Carver Career and Technical Education Center, Charleston, WV

Wisconsin

Milwaukee Area Technical College, Milwaukee, WI

Source:

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the distribution of medication to patients. Technicians also participate in drug studies and maintain patient records. The pharmacy profession is a dynamic sector, with new medications and technology constantly emerging. The vibrancy in the field means that the roles and responsibilities of pharmacy technicians are constantly evolvingto keep up with industry changes. In order to safeguard the public, training programs are required to undergo an accreditation process to ensure nationally recognized standards prevail in the field. Attending an accredited program boosts your job marketability, as most employers prefer to hire graduates from accredited educational programs. In most cases, certification and licensure processes also require completion of an accredited program. Attending an accredited program not only promotes delivery of quality service to patients, it also enhances your professional development.

Types of Accreditation

Accreditation may be institutional or programmatic. Institutional accreditation involves evaluating the quality of education and standards in all areas of an institution. This involves assessing administration, facilities, faculty, finances, personnel and other areas, to ascertain if specified standards have been met. Various agencies in the US, both regional and national, perform institutional accreditation. Institutional accreditation does not evaluate individual training programs in as rigorous a manner as is the case with programmatic accreditation. Programmatic or specialized accreditation evaluates specific programs within an institution. The curriculum, facilities, faculty and other areas of training are usually the focus areas during programmatic accreditation, which thoroughly evaluates a program to ascertain the degree of educational quality being offered.

Checking Accreditation Status

Accreditation of pharmacy education training programs is done by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). The ASHP provides an online directory that allows you to check the accreditation status of technician training programs. Programs listed in the directory provide information on training requirements, tuition costs, fees and admission requirements. The Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) also provides an online directory that allows you to identify accredited programs and schools of pharmacy.

State Requirements on Accreditation

Requirements on whether pharmacy technicians should complete accredited programs or not, varies by state. The Board of Pharmacy in each state is responsible for outlining accreditation requirements. Some states do not require technicians to complete an ASHP-accredited training program. However, the majority of states require technicians to graduate from accredited programs. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) has information on requirements for technicians in each state. However, it is best to ensure that you select an accredited program for your training experience. This is because patients look to you and the pharmacist to meet their medication needs in an efficient and safe manner. By attending an accredited training program, you’re assured of developing essential competencies that allow safe and efficient practice.

Sources:

Accredited Pharmacy Technician Training Programs. Retrieved March 20, 2012. Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.

Frequently Asked Questions. (2012) American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Pharmacy Technician Accreditation. Retrieved March 20, 2012. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Pharmacy Technicians: the Basics. (2012) American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

If you’re searching for financial aid to help you meet the costs of your pharmacy education, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available for students. Here are a few options you may want to explore.

American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (AFPE)

Various scholarships and fellowships are offered by the AFPE to graduate students enrolled in programs in the pharmaceutical sciences. Pharmacy faculty development research grants are also extended to faculty in the field. 

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students

The US Department of Health and Human Services, through the HRSA, offers scholarships to health professions students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Accredited health professions and nursing schools may apply for these funds, which are then awarded to full-time students who demonstrate financial need. It is best to enquire from your school about availability of this program and eligibility requirements.

Indian Health Service (IHS) Scholarship Program

The IHS offers scholarships to American Indians and Alaska Native students to promote the development of healthcare professionals in communities. Applicants must be enrolled in health professional educational programs at the preparatory, pre-graduate or professional level.

Medco Scholars Program

The Medco Foundation, through the Medco Scholars program, provides 4 scholarships for students, each amounting to $10,000. Students must be enrolled in a dual degree program related to pharmacy. The scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden usually experienced by dual degree students. Successful students receive $2,500 each semester, for 4 consecutive semesters. Applicants who demonstrate financial need as well as those from underrepresented minorities receive extra consideration. Applicants must submit a statement of career goals which must include their reasons for wishing to participate in the scholarship program.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicant must be enrolled in a dual degree program related to pharmacy.
• The program or school must be one that is approved by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation

The NACDS Foundation offers scholarships to pharmacy students to encourage the development of future leaders in community pharmacy. Additionally, through its Pharmacy Partners Scholarship Program, the NACDS Foundation provides funding to colleges and schools of pharmacy across the US, designated for students enrolled in programs in the pharmaceutical sciences. This reflects the commitment of the NACDS Foundation to its mission, which is to improve patient care services in community pharmacies as well as within the entire healthcare system. The foundation also supports various research initiatives and provides financial support for continuing education programs with an emphasis on patient-centered care in community pharmacies.

Tylenol Future Care Scholarship

Tylenol offers scholarships to students enrolled in healthcare programs. Up to $250,000 is awarded in scholarships to 40 students. Out of the 40 selected applicants, 10 receive amounts of $10,000 each while the other 30 applicants each receive $5,000.

Sources:

About AFPE. (2011) American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education.

Financial Aid and Scholarships. (2012) American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy.

Funding Opportunities. (2010)  US Department of Health and Human Services.

Program Performance Data. Retrieved March 21, 2012. Indian Health Service.

Scholarships and Student Opportunities. (2011) National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation

Tylenol Future Care Scholarship. (2012) Tylenol.

What We Do. (2011) National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Foundation.

As you make plans for your education in the field of pharmacy, you may want to explore the available financial aid options for your education. Securing some form of financial aid gives you peace of mind and allows you to attend to your studies in a focused manner. This contributes to a positive training experience. In most cases, college financial aid offices are an excellent source of information on financial aid availability. Below are some sources of federal funding that are available to students at various levels of their pharmacy education. To apply for federal funding, you need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Federal Grants

A grant is a form of financial aid extended to a student that does not need to be repaid. Federal grants are offered to students in various colleges and career schools. 

• Federal Pell Grant – if you are an undergraduate student without a bachelor’s or professional degree, you may apply for this grant. The maximum amount of the award is $5,500. Factors that determine what is actually allocated include financial need, school costs, student status and length of program.
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) – undergraduate students who can demonstrate exceptional financial need may apply for the FSEOG. Amounts allocated range from $100 to $4,000 each year. Besides your level of financial need, the time your application is submitted and financial aid policies at your school also play a role in determining how much you actually receive.

Federal Student Loans

• Perkins – this is a low-interest loan that is available to both undergraduate and graduate students who can demonstrate exceptional financial need. Perkins loans are government funds that are extended through the school’s financial aid office. The school acts as the lender, hence recipients must refund the school eventually. Undergraduates can borrow up to $5,500 for each academic year. The total amount that undergraduates can borrow is $27,500. Graduates students can borrow up to $8,000 each academic year but no more than $60,000, which includes monies received as an undergraduate. Students attending school, at least on a half-time basis, have up to 9 months after graduation to begin repayments.
• Direct Stafford Loans – the US Department of Education extends low interest loans to eligible students through participating schools. The Direct Subsidized Loan is for students who can demonstrate financial need while the Direct Unsubsidized Loan does not require applicants to demonstrate financial need.

Federal Work Study (FWS)

Undergraduate and graduate students with financial need may apply for part-time work in their schools. Students are encouraged to seek work related to their course of study. Money earned from work helps students to meet their educational expenses.

Institutional Grants

Many schools offer institutional grants to help students meet their educational costs. Schools also offer merit awards to students with outstanding academic achievement. Grant recipients may, in some cases, be obliged to fulfill certain conditions upon receipt of award.

Sources:

Campus-Based Aid. (2009) Student Aid on the Web.

Direct Stafford Loans. (2011) Student Aid on the Web.

Federal Pell Grant. (2011) Student Aid on the Web.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) (2011). Student Aid on the Web.

Institutional Grants. (2011) Student Aid on the Web.

If you’re keen on a profession in the healthcare sector that doesn’t require a great investment of time in training, you may want to consider the pharmacy technician profession. A certificate program is one formal training option available to you that helps to prepare for entry into the field. The duration of certificate programs ranges from 6 months to one year. Institutions offering certificate programs include community colleges, vocational schools and proprietary organizations. Some hospitals also offer certificate training programs. In most cases, programs admitting applicants require completion of a high school diploma.

Program Objectives

Certificate training programs have several objectives, some of which are listed below:

• Prepare students to play a competent role in the collection, organization and evaluation of information on patient care.
• Train students how to receive and screen prescriptions and medication orders for completeness.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills that allow preparation and distribution of medications in an efficient and safe manner.
• Teach students how to follow established guidelines during the purchase of pharmaceuticals, devices and supplies.
• Allow students to develop an understanding of the procedures and operations involved in the manufacture, packaging and labeling of pharmaceutical products.
• Teach students how to conduct inventories of medications and equipment efficiently.
• Teach students how to complete insurance claim forms.

Curriculum

Training programs generally consist of a didactic experience, laboratory sessions and an internship. Courses covered may include:

• Community pharmacy
• Data analysis
• Drug classification and coding systems
• Drug uses and doses
• Institutional pharmacy practice
• Introduction to pharmacy
• Medical terminology
• Pharmacy drug therapy and treatment
• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmaceutical math
• Pharmaceutical recordkeeping
• Pharmaceutical techniques
• Quality improvement methods

The internship experience allows students to apply their knowledge and develop practical skills in a real-world pharmacy setting. Students are assigned to a pharmacy in a hospital or other healthcare setting within the community, where they practice under supervision.

Impact of Coursework on Career Options

The coursework prepares students for a successful career in the field. Technicians have the option to focus on specific areas during formal training. By choosing to concentrate in areas such as chemotherapy or nuclear pharmacy, technicians improve their opportunities for advancement into specialty positions in the healthcare sector. Some technicians specialize in sales. This allows them to move into the area of pharmaceuticals sales. The coursework also gives students the opportunity to grasp fundamentals of medical records and health information. With additional training, pharmacy technicians may become medical coders or coding specialists. Students are able to develop a solid knowledge base in pharmacy. This serves as an excellent foundation for future career advancement. With additional training and experience, some technicians move on to become pharmacists.

Sources:

ASHP Accreditation Standards for Pharmacy Technician Training Programs. Retrieved March 20, 2012. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Pharmacy Technician Program Handbook. (2010)  AustinCommunity College.

Pharmacy Technicians and Aides. (2010) US Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Pharmacy technician training programs focus on building essential competencies that allow safe and efficient distribution of medications to patients. Attending an accredited formal training program helps to ensure that you prepare thoroughly to play a vital support role to a pharmacist. By having a highly competent assistant, a pharmacist is able to devote more attention to various clinical services. Thorough training, therefore, benefits the profession as well as the public. It also gives you more options in career advancement. If you wish to have a more intensive formal training experience for the field of pharmacy technology, an associate degree program is a good choice. Community colleges, vocational schools, 4-year colleges, universities and trade schools offer associate degree programs, which usually take 2 years to complete. Some individuals get their education in the military. A high school diploma is a general requirement for admission into associate degree programs.

Program Goals

Associate degree programs prepare students to perform a wide range of technical distributive functions in the industry. Students learn how to:

• Screen patient prescriptions.
• Prepare medications and other healthcare products, according to prescription and how to distribute these efficiently to patients.
• Create and maintain patient files on computer.
• Maintain inventories of medications and pharmaceutical supplies.
• Clean pharmaceutical equipment and maintain a neat and organized work setting, as this directly impacts on work efficiency.

Program Curriculum

Associate degree coursework usually consists of classroom instruction, laboratory experience and a practicum. The practicum allows students to develop practical skills in pharmaceutical sites, usually in hospitals or community healthcare settings. Courses of study vary by institution. However, areas likely to be covered in an associate degree program include:

• Community practice
• Drug products
• Institutional pharmacy
• Insurance claims
• Inventory management
• Manufacture of pharmaceuticals
• Medical terminology
• Pharmaceutical calculations
• Preparation of sterile products
• Recordkeeping

Students also take general education courses such as communication, psychology, speech, technical communication and writing. These courses allow students to develop fundamental skills that not only enhance their performance in the field but also facilitate career advancement.

Coursework and Career Options

Pharmaceutical knowledge and communication skills acquired during training are vital for technicians who wish to explore a career in sales. This is a highly lucrative sector. Pharmacy technicians must learn how to interpret various insurance plans during their training. This is because many patients are able to meet the costs of their prescriptions through some form of medical insurance. Knowledge of processing health insurance claims comes in handy for those who would wish to venture into the health insurance sector or move into medical billing. Courses such as drug products, inventory management, medical terminology and recordkeeping, allow technicians to develop competencies, which with further training, allows them to become medical data assistants or medical records technicians. With adequate work experience and additional training, pharmacist technicians may venture into supervisory positions or play leadership roles in the pharmaceutical industry.

Sources:

Pharmacy Technician. Retrieved March 20, 2012.  North DakotaState College of Science.

Pharmacy Technician. Retrieved March 12, 2012. Partners Healthcare.

An online pharmacy tech program can make an education more attainable for busy adults who have a lot on their plate. While online programs are often more flexible, they come with their own set of challenges. Here are some tips to keep in mind to make your online pharmacy tech certificate or degree a success:

• Schedule Your Time – Whether you’re studying through asynchronous or synchronous online courses, one thing is certain – you won’t be able to meet your obligations if you’re not careful about time management. Schedule time into your life to complete homework and watch lectures, and you’ll be more likely to ace your classes. Even if a class is online, you still have to put in the requisite hours of work.
• Engage Online – Hiding in the back of your online class won’t help your understanding of the material or your grade. With today’s technology, there are plenty of excellent ways to interact with your instructors and your peers. Email questions to you professors and instant message study buddies to work on problems. Post questions and tips on course forums. You’ll find that engaging in the class also helps you enjoy it more.
• Be a Self Starter – We’ve all had this experience: you’re doing your best to slouch in the back of a class when the professor asks a touch question, but they still manage to call on you. In online courses, it’s often easy to fly under the radar and avoid getting called out, but procrastinating will only hurt you in the long term. Online courses really force you to rely on yourself and your own wherewithal to get things done.
• Make a Study Group – More heads are better than one, when it comes to your online course. Try to assemble some peers to have a virtual study group, where you meet online to go over notes and homework questions. You can share your own insights with these friends and get their help when you’re in a rut.
• Make the Most of Your Hands-on Experience – Nearly all pharmacy technician programs require some sort of practicum or externship experience before you graduate. Rather than coming to this requirement tired or worn out, try to prioritize it in your life. Study the skills you’ll be using and attend your hands-on experiences ready to fully engage. After all, it’s your real life skills that will land you that dream job.

Source

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (2012)

Almost every state regulates the employment of pharmacy technicians. To work as a pharm tech, you must meet certain state-specific requirements. Read on to find a summary of each state's requirements.

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Alabama

To work as a pharmacy technician in Alabama, one must be 17 years old and work under the direct supervision of a pharmacist who is licensed to work in the state of Alabama. Those who are interested in working as a pharmacy technician in Alabama must submit a written application to the Alabama Board of Pharmacy before they can start working in a pharmacy. A pharmacy technician must also complete three hours of continuing education through a program that is approved by the Alabama Board of Pharmacy or through the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. More information can be found at the Alabama Board of Pharmacy website. Another resource for certification in Alabama is the Alabama Society of Health-System Pharmacists.

Alaska

To be certified as a pharmacy technician in Alaska, one must be 18 years of age, fluent in the English language, hold a high school degree or equivalent, and be able to perform the duties of a pharmacy technician. Interested individuals cannot have a felony conviction or any other conviction that may influence their ability to work as a pharmacy technician. To obtain a license in Alaska, one must seek licensure through the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.

Arizona

To be employed as a pharmacy technician in Arizona, each individual must be a United States citizen and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Each individual must also provide proof of certification with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. For more information on the requirements for becoming a practicing pharmacy technician in Arizona, visit this website.

Arkansas

In Arkansas, individuals who want to be work as a pharmacy technician must have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a state and federal criminal background check, and be of good moral character. Individuals must apply and be approved by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy in order to practice as a pharmacy technician. More information can be obtained on the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy website.

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California

To work as a pharmacy technician in California, individuals must have completed higher education coursework, such as earning an associate's degree in pharmacy technology; completing a course accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; or earning a degree from any pharmacy school accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education. Individuals must apply for licensure through the California Board of Pharmacy by completing an application, submitting a registration fee, and submitting their fingerprints. Licensing for pharmacy technicians is regulated by the California Board of Pharmacy.

Colorado

The state of Colorado does not certify or license pharmacy technicians. Individuals who are interested in receiving certification can take the appropriate exam hosted by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. For more information regarding Colorado's requirements, visit this website.

Connecticut

To work as a pharmacy technician in Connecticut, one must be certified and registered with the state's Department of Consumer Protection. Requirements for registration with the department include certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or another certification program recognized by the department. Pharmacy technicians must be supervised at all times by a pharmacist and must be able to perform all the functions required in the method of dispensing drugs. For more information, please visit the Department of Consumer Protection website.

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Delaware

To operate as a pharmacy technician in the state of Delaware, one must work in a pharmacy under the direct supervision of a pharmacist. Certification is not required, nor is licensing, but certified technicians may have more opportunities than technicians who are not certified. For more information, please visit Delaware's Board of Pharmacy website.

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Florida

To work as a pharmacy technician in Florida, one must be registered with Florida's Board of Pharmacy. Requirements for registration require one of the following: 1,500 hours of work experience; completion of a state-approved education program; or certification by a national agency, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Applicants who meet one of these requirements must submit an application and a fee to the board to complete the registration process. On January 1, 2011, requirements will change and applicants will be required to complete a state-recognized pharmacy technician program.

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Georgia

Licensing in Georgia is not required for pharmacy technicians, but the Board of Pharmacy only recognizes certified technicians as those who have completed an approved nationally certified technician program. Pharmacy technicians employed in pharmacies must be under the direct supervision of a pharmacist and cannot offer counseling to patients. More information on the requirements to work as a pharmacy technician in Georgia can be found at this website.

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Hawaii

Hawaii does not require pharmacy technicians to be licensed or certified, but certification through a national certification board may offer an individual more job opportunities. For more information, visit Hawaii's Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs website.

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Idaho

To work as a pharmacy technician in Idaho, candidates must be 18 years of age, have sound moral character, a high school diploma or equivalent, and be certified by a national certification board, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. Once all of these requirements are met, licensing is provided through the Idaho Board of Pharmacy.

Illinois

Pharmacy technicians in Illinois must be licensed through the Division of Professional Regulation. To obtain a license in the state of Illinois, applicants must have completed (or be in the process of completing) a high school diploma or equivalent.

Indiana

To work as a pharmacy technician in Indiana, an individual must be certified by the Indiana Board of Pharmacy. To obtain certification, one must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have not been convicted of a crime that relates to working with controlled substances, and have completed an educational program through a pharmacy or educational institution. The board may waive the educational requirement if the individual has completed a certification program approved by the board. More information on becoming a pharmacy technician in Indiana can be found at this website.

Iowa

In Iowa, pharmacy technicians must be registered with the Board of Pharmacy in order to work in a pharmacy. Requirements for registration include certification with either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians.

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Kansas

In order to work as a pharmacy technician in Kansas, one must be registered with the Kansas Board of Pharmacy. Individuals must be registered with the Board before they can be employed in a pharmacy. After an individual is employed, he or she must pass an exam given by the pharmacy. This exam is only required after the individual's initial registration.

Kentucky

Pharmacy technicians in Kentucky must be registered with the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy. To obtain licensure, one must fill out an application and submit a fee. Approval for certification is determined by the board.

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Louisiana

In Louisiana, individuals who wish to work as pharmacy technicians must be certified by the Louisiana Board of Pharmacy. To obtain certification, an individual must pass a board-approved exam, as well as earn 600 practical field hours. Individuals must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and submit to a criminal background check.

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Maine

Licensing for pharmacy technicians in Maine is regulated by the Board of Pharmacy and the Office of Licensing and Registration. To work as a pharmacy technician, one must submit an application and fee, as well as submit to a criminal background check. Maine also designates between pharmacy technician and pharmacy technician advanced. To be licensed as a pharmacy technician advanced, one must be certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and have completed the National Community Pharmacy Technician Training Program, as well as pass the corresponding exam.

Maryland

In Maryland, pharmacy technicians must register with the Maryland Board of Pharmacy. Individuals must be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or complete a board-approved training program that includes 160 hours of work experience and lasts no longer than 6 months. Those who complete the training program must also pass a board-certified exam. Requirements for all candidates include possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, or that the candidate is currently enrolled in high school with good standing. Individuals must also submit to a criminal background check.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, individuals who want to work as pharmacy technicians must register with the Massachusetts Board of Pharmacy. Applicants must be 18 years old, be currently enrolled in a high school degree program, or have a high school diploma or equivalent. Individuals must also be certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians. However, the board will also accept exam results from board-approved pharmacy technician training programs that are completed through the pharmacy of employment.

Michigan

Currently, Michigan does not require individuals who work as pharmacy technicians to be licensed or registered. Basic requirements involve strong moral character, basic reading and reasoning skills, and the ability to assist pharmacists with all required duties. For more information, visit the Department of Community Health website.

Minnesota

Individuals interested in working as pharmacy technicians must be at least 16 years old and have an understanding of Minnesota's pharmacy laws. To work as a pharmacy technician, individuals must be registered with Minnesota's Board of Pharmacy.

Mississippi

In Mississippi, pharmacy technicians must register with Mississippi's Board of Pharmacy within 30 days of accepting employment. To be licensed, individuals must submit an application and a non-refundable fee.

Missouri

Pharmacy technicians in Missouri must register with the Missouri Board of Pharmacy through the Division of Professional Registration. To obtain certification through the board, individuals must submit an application, a registration fee, be fingerprinted, and submit to a criminal background check.

Montana

To work as a pharmacy technician in Montana, individuals must register with the Montana Board of Pharmacy. To obtain licensure through the board, one must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, be certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or another board-recognized agency, and submit three references—one being a practicing pharmacist.

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Nebraska

Pharmacy technicians in Nebraska must register with the Department of Health and Human Services. To successfully obtain licensure, technicians must be 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and they cannot have a felony or misdemeanor conviction on a non-alcohol, drug-related charge.

Nevada

In Nevada, individuals must register with the Nevada Board of Pharmacy to practice as a pharmacy technician. Applicants must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent. They cannot have a felony or misdemeanor conviction that involves drugs, and they cannot have a history of drug abuse. Individuals must be licensed as a pharmacy technician in a state that provides licenses to pharmacy technicians; complete 1,500 hours of training in Nevada as a registered pharmacy technician-in-training; or have graduated from a school accredited by the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP). If an individual has obtained a degree from a school not accredited by the ASHP, he or she must take and pass the exam given by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

New Hampshire

To work as a pharmacy technician in New Hampshire, registration with the New Hampshire Board of Pharmacy is required. To obtain licensure, applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent (or be working toward one), be of strong moral character, and they cannot have been convicted of a drug-related felony or misdemeanor charge. Once registered, the technician must complete a training program designed by their pharmacy of employment.

New Jersey

New Jersey does not require pharmacy technicians be certified to work in the state. However, each technician must register with New Jersey's Board of Pharmacy.

New Mexico

All pharmacy technicians practicing in the state of New Mexico must be licensed by the state's Board of Pharmacy. To obtain licensure, candidates must have 220 hours of on-the-job training, or complete a curriculum approved by the board.

New York

Pharmacy technicians are not currently regulated in New York, but the state's Office of Professions is discussing possible regulation of pharmacy technicians.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, individuals who wish to work as pharmacy technicians must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy. An application and fee must be submitted in order to register as a technician.

North Dakota

Pharmacy technicians in North Dakota must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy to be permitted to work in pharmacies. There are currently no state-mandated education requirements.

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Ohio

While the Ohio Board of Pharmacy does not require registration by pharmacy technicians, to work as a pharmacy technician an individual must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have passed a board-recognized technician exam, and have submitted to a criminal background check.

Oklahoma

To work as a pharmacy technician in Oklahoma, one must complete two phases of training. The first phase must take place before the technician is given a permit, and it involves a training program implemented by the hiring pharmacy. It must be completed 90 days after the technician has received his or her permit. The second phase involves on-the-job training, also conducted by the pharmacy of employment. Both phases must follow board-approved guidelines. For more information, please visit the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy website.

Oregon

In Oregon, individuals who wish to work as pharmacy technicians must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy. To obtain certification, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have taken and passed a national certification exam through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or through the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians.

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Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not currently regulate or register pharmacy technicians. However, those who possess national certification may have more employment opportunities. For more information, please visit the Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy website.

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Rhode Island

Rhode Island licenses two levels of pharmacy technicians. Those who fall under the first level must be registered with the state's Board of Pharmacy and have passed a board-recognized training program. The second level technicians must also register with the board, but they must also be certified through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (or another board-recognized certification program), as well as pass a board-recognized training program. All candidates must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, be of strong moral character, and they cannot have been convicted of a felony involving substance abuse.

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South Carolina

Pharmacy technicians in South Carolina must be certified by the state's Board of Pharmacy. To obtain certification, individuals must have a high school diploma or equivalent, have completed a formal academic training program, pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam, and have completed 1,000 hours of training.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, pharmacy technicians are required to register with the state's Department of Health within 30 days of accepting employment at a pharmacy. For individuals who are enrolled in a college program, registration must be completed before employment is obtained.

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Tennessee

Individuals who wish to work as pharmacy technicians in Tennessee must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy. Along with an application, candidates must submit a statement about their good moral character, as well as an affidavit from their employer stating that the individual knows and comprehends the state pharmacy regulations.

Texas

Before they can be employed in a pharmacy, individuals in Texas must register with the state Board of Pharmacy. When registering, individuals must submit to a background check and be fingerprinted. Formal education is not required to work as a pharmacy technician in Texas.

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Utah

Individuals who want to work as pharmacy technicians in Utah must register with the state's Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Individuals must also complete a training program in Utah or a formal education program, and they must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam or another board-approved exam, plus a state-mandated exam. The individual must also submit to fingerprinting.

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Vermont

Individuals in Vermont must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy to practice as pharmacy technicians. An application must be submitted, along with a fee and documentation proving that the applicant is certified through a national certification board, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

Virginia

In Virginia, individuals who want to work as pharmacy technicians must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy. To successfully register in Virginia, one must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board exam or another board-approved training program.

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Washington

To work as a pharmacy technician in the state of Washington, individuals must register with the state's Board of Pharmacy. To qualify for a license, individuals must complete a training program that is board-approved and includes 520 hours of on-the-job training. Individuals must also pass a nationally recognized certification program.

West Virginia

In West Virginia, pharmacy technicians must register with the Board of Pharmacy. But before an individual can register as a pharmacy technician, he or she must register as a technician-in-training. Once the individual is registered as in training, he or she must complete 2,080 hours of work within a two-year period under the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist, and then pass the West Virginia Board of Pharmacy Technician Examination. Trainees can be under the age of 18 and still enrolled in a high school program, but to be registered as a technician he or she must be 18 years or older and have completed a high school degree program or equivalent.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin does not currently license or regulate pharmacy technicians. However, individual pharmacies may set their own policies for determining the employment eligibility of an individual. For more information, please visit the Wisconsin Department of Regulation and Licensing website.

Wyoming

Pharmacy technicians in Wyoming must be registered with Wisconsin's State Board of Pharmacy. An individual must first register as a technician-in-training and complete required on-the-job training to prepare for licensure as a technician. To obtain licensure, an individual must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. They cannot have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony relating to the misuse of a controlled substance, and they cannot have a history of drug abuse.

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The Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ICPT) developed the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT), which is now administrated by the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Like the exam offered through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, the NHA’s exam is a way for pharmacy techs to earn the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) title.

About the Certification

The ICPT created the ExCPT in order to promote high standards for pharmacy technicians and to elevate the field. The exam also helps ensure that pharmacy technicians are highly qualified and using best practices in their positions. Like all credentialing exams, the ExCPT exam is also a way for pharmacy technicians to demonstrate their skills, no matter what training or education program they completed.

Eligibility

The exam is open to candidates who are at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates must also have no felony convictions, revoked licenses or disciplinary action by state health regulatory boards.

The Exam

The ExCPT exam is offered more than 300 days per year in a computer format. As of publication date, the exam costs $105 to take and registration can be completed online. The test contains 110 multiple choice questions, which students have two hours to complete. The high score on the test is 500; test-takers must get a 390 or higher in order to pass the exam.

The exam has three basic content areas. Approximately 25 percent of the exam covers regulation and technician duties. This includes issues such as pharmacy security, inventory control, and federal laws and regulations. 23 percent of the exam looks at drugs and drug products. Exam takers are expected to know drug classification schemes and frequently prescribed medications, including their indications and drug interactions. The remaining 52 percent of the test discusses the dispensing process. This area tests calculations, sterile products and unit dose, preparing/dispensing prescriptions, and prescription information.

Recertification

The NHA requires pharmacy technicians to become recertified every two years. This ensures that CPhTs are up to date on the latest changes in the healthcare field. In order to recertify, pharmacy technicians must complete at least 20 hours of continuing education every two years. Continuing education credits can cover a range of pharmacy topics, including: drug distribution, managed health care, therapeutic issues, communications, pharmacy operations, and calculations. College courses in math, life sciences or pharmaceutical sciences are also accepted. Recertification candidates must also pay a fee ($50 by mail; $40 online) and complete the recertification form.

The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is an independent national certification program for pharmacy technicians. Certification through the PTCB is a way for pharmacy techs to demonstrate competence on a national exam – above and beyond their education and training.

About the Certification

The PTCB is responsible for developing the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential and administering the certification exam. The PTCB exam is not required by most states; however, earning the credential can be a way increase one’s employment prospects. PTCB has accreditation through the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

Why Get Certified?

The certification program exists as a way for pharmacy technicians to better work with pharmacists and to better serve patients. According to the PTCB, CPhTs have higher salaries and greater career mobility than those without certification. In preparing for the exam, pharmacy technicians also increase their knowledge base and ability to provide effective care.

Eligibility

In order to apply to take the PTCB exam, applicants must possess a high school or GED diploma and have no felony convictions. Also, they must not have any drug or pharmacy related convictions, including misdemeanors.

About the PTCB Exam

The PTCB exam is made of 90 multiple-choice questions. The test is available at more than 200 testing centers nationwide and applicants may sign up for the test online. After receiving an authorization to test, candidates have 90 days to sign up for a testing date; the test is offered on-demand year round. As of publication date, it costs $129 to sit for the exam.

The exam covers three job function areas. About 66 percent of the exam’s questions discuss material surrounding the assistance of the pharmacist in serving patients, 22 percent of the exam discusses maintaining medication and inventory control systems, and the remaining 12 percent covers administration and management issues. The test is scored on a scale of 300 to 900, with 650 being a passing score.

Preparing for the Exam

The PTCB provides a test blueprint and outline that students may study in order to prepare for the exam. Along with these materials, many third-party organizations make test prep manuals and review materials that may be helpful. The PTCB also offers three online practice exams which students may, for a price, take to prepare for the exam.

Maintaining Certification

PTCB requires CPhTs to recertify every two years. In order to recertify, pharmacy technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education classes in the two-year period.

In order to become a practicing pharmacy technician, you must be certified by the state in which you are working. However, many pharmacy technicians also choose to become nationally certified. National certification is required by some positions, but for most technicians it just shows a dedication to their job, and it serves as an excellent addition to their resumes.

For highly desirable positions, national certification can give you an edge during the hiring process. Because the national certification exam is an extra test of skills and reasoning ability, it not only looks good on your resume, but shows potential employers that you are willing to go above and beyond normal requirements.

The Process

The process for earning national certification is simple. There are two programs that offer national certification exams, the Institute of Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ICPT) and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The ICPT offers the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (also known as the ExCPT), and PTCB offers the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (also known as the PTCE).

Upon passing either exam you will become a Certified Pharmacy Technician, and can officially incorporate the CPhT designation as part of your title. Beware, however. In some states, it does matter which test you take. Some states only accept the ExCPT, whereas others prefer the PTCE, and some states accept both. There are also differences in test content, price, and score reporting. To help you decide, here is a breakdown of the two tests.

Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT)

To take the ExCPT, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. You must have no previous felony convictions, and you must never have had your pharmacy technician license revoked or placed under any restriction.

The ExCPT consists of 110 multiple choice questions that cover regulations and technician duties; drugs and drug therapies; and the dispensing process. The test is computerized, although accommodations can be made for those who have learning or testing disabilities. Test results are printed upon completion of the test, and those who have passing scores will receive an official certificate in the mail within four weeks.

To schedule a test, call 1-800-211-2754. This hotline will direct you to the nearest testing center (which can be found at LaserGrade) and reserve your spot at the testing center. Exams can usually be taken 24 to 48 hours after a reservation is made. The ExCPT costs $105.

Study materials are available online. A National Pharmacy Tech Training Manual can be purchased from the ICPT website for $82. There are also practice exams available for $25 here.

National certification through ICPT must be renewed every two years. To become recertified, you must fill out a recertification form and pay the $40 fee if you are reapplying online or $50 if you are reapplying by mail. Reinstatement requires a form and an $80 fee. Forms can be found here.

Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)

To take the PTCE, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. You must have no previous felony convictions, and you must never have had your pharmacy technician license revoked or placed under any restriction.

The PTCE consists of 90 multiple choice questions. The first 10 questions are personal and not graded. The remaining 80 questions cover such topics as assisting the pharmacist and serving patients; maintaining medication and inventory control; and administration and management. The test is computerized, although accommodations can be made for those who have learning or testing disabilities. Your results can be printed upon completion of the test, and a certificate for those who received passing scores will be mailed within three weeks.

You can apply online for the test on the PTCB website, or request a paper application. Reservations can be made 365 days a year and exams are given almost continuously throughout the year. Following online application, or verification of the paper application, you must take the exam within 90 days. An exam center will be assigned to you during the application process, or you can find a testing site online here. The PTCE costs $129.

Three practice exams are available online for $29 at the PTCB website. National certification through PTCB must be renewed every two years. To become recertified, or reinstated if you allowed your license to lapse, you must fill out a recertification/reinstatement form and pay an $80 fee. Forms are also available at the PTCB website.

Article Resources:

ICPT
PTCB

Pharmacy technicians are responsible for a variety of duties in a pharmacy setting. They fill and label prescriptions; assist customers and patients when ordering prescriptions; schedule staff; deal with insurance companies; order medications from drug companies; and assist pharmacists with their duties. Technicians are also responsible for knowing the names, doses, and uses of common drugs. Individuals who are interested in pursuing a pharmacy technician career must have good customer service skills because how they interact with patients is an essential part of the job.

State Requirements

There are no national requirements for practicing as a pharmacy technician, but many states have their own educational requirements. Most states require that pharmacy technicians have a high school diploma or equivalent. California, however, requires some form of higher education for individuals to become practicing technicians. Some states require backgrounds checks. Many states require certification at a national level, but some, like Colorado, do not. Pharmacy technicians seeking certification can take a national test through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Colorado is one state that does not certify or license technicians, but it does require nationally recognized certification through the PTCB. Additionally, most states require that technicians continue their education after they've been certified in order to continue practicing. For instance, in Alaska, individuals who wish to renew their licenses must complete 10 hours of continuing education.

Education Options

A variety of degrees are offered in the pharmacy technician field. One can obtain an associate's or bachelor's degree in pharmacy science, or they may receive a certificate. Students learn about common drug interactions, common generic and name brand medications, and how to perform calculations typically needed in the field.

Those who are seeking higher education degrees may concentrate on different areas of study, such as pharmacy regulations & policy; applied pharmoeconomics; clinical research regulations & ethics; patient safety & risk management; forensic pharmacy; and drug regulatory affairs. Educational programs can vary in length from six months to four years depending on which path an individual chooses. To obtain certification, individuals must take an exam. In most states, once the educational requirements are met, individuals must register with the appropriate state boards to be eligible to work in a pharmacy.

For those pharmacy technicians who work in states that require continuing education after certification is obtained, many courses can be taken through local community colleges. In Connecticut, where continuing education is required, community colleges offer coursework specifically geared toward pharmacy technicians. These courses are designed to keep pharmacy technicians up to date on new developments in the medical field, as well as refresh their existing knowledge of the field.

Most individuals who are hired into a pharmacy setting will receive hands-on-training and may be closely supervised before they are allowed to perform tasks on their own. Individual pharmacists and pharmacies will have requirements in place regarding how much hands-on-training they require before a newly hired pharmacy technician can work without direct supervision. Most pharmacies have high ethical standards for their employees and will make sure that the individuals they've hired are dependable people who will perform the duties of a pharmacy technician carefully and responsibly.

Article Resources:

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies
California Board of Pharmacy
Alaska Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing
Norwalk Community College
University of Florida
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The overall job outlook for pharmacy technicians is positive. Pharmacy technicians who are certified, or who possess higher education degrees in the field, are very likely to find work. Most pharmacy technicians (75 percent) work in retail settings, including grocery stories, drug stores, and super stores, such as Wal-Mart. However, other technicians may find employment in hospitals, mail-order pharmacies, and student health centers located on college campuses.

Retail stores tend to pay less than hospitals for entry-level pharmacy technicians. Entry-level pharmacy technicians in a retail setting can expect an hourly wage of $5 to $8, whereas a new technician working in a hospital can expect an hourly wage of $7 to $9. On average, the hourly income for experienced pharmacy technicians is the same in a retail setting or hospital, with a national average of $10 to $13.50 per hour.

Pharmacy technicians who work in retail and hospital settings may be expected to work weekends, evenings, and holidays, depending on the needs of their pharmacy. Some pharmacies offer 24-hour service to their customers and require that technicians be on staff at all times. Many pharmacy technicians work part-time, but others may be required to work a full-time, 40-hour week. Some technicians who find employment in hospitals or grocery stores may become members of a union.

While advancement opportunities are limited for pharmacy technicians, some may become supervisors in their places of employment. Others may pursue specialized areas, such as chemotherapy technician or nuclear pharmacy technician. A few pharmacy technicians can become pharmacists with enough training and education. Others may seek employment as sales representatives for pharmaceutical companies.

Since June 2009, the demand for pharmacy technicians has risen 79 percent and is expected to grow another 25 percent by 2018. In 2008, roughly 381,200 people were employed as pharmacy technicians. The annual average income for pharmacy technicians in the nation is $38,000. However, the annual salary can vary by city and state.

Here is a historical salary graph for the average salary of a pharmacy technician:

 

Put this Graph on Your Site

<a href="http://www.pharmacy-technician.net/employment-outlook" style="cursor:pointer"><img src="http://www.pharmacy-technician.net/organization_files/1030/pharmacy-tech-graph.jpg" border="0" alt="Pharmacy Technician Salary Graph from Pharmacy-Technician.net"></a><p>Source:<a href="http://www.pharmacy-technician.net">Pharmacy Technician.net</a>

Pharmacy technician job opportunities are growing and individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field can expect to find employment. Experienced applicants, individuals with higher levels of education and certification, and those who are willing to work a variety of hours, will be most likely to succeed in finding employment as a pharmacy technician.

Article Resources:

SalaryWizard
SimplyHired
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
PayScale
Allied Physicians

The pharmacy profession is one of the oldest and most respected in the medical field. The history of pharmacy can be traced back to several hundred years BC, as evidenced by ancient clay tablets with prescriptions.

Pharmacists have the task of making sure the prescribed medication gets from the doctor to the patient. They also need to create the proper dosage to effectively combat the medical condition of the patient. Pharmacists and other professionals in the pharmacy field need to be aware of the medication that they are dispensing and make patients aware of possible complications due to interactions with other drugs they are taking. 

Because of the complexities of the profession, potential employees in the field need to go through adequate educational programs to meet the demands of the job. The following are resources to help potential career professionals learn more about the pharmacy field and possible job opportunities:

History of Pharmacy

• History of Pharmacy – guide from VCU containing information on the history of Pharmacy.
• Pharmacy Tutorial – online tutorial about the field of Pharmacy including information on its origin.
• History of Pharmacy Pages – collection of resources on the history and development of Pharmacy.
• Britannica History of Pharmacy – brief look at the history of Pharmacy.
• Center for History of Pharmacy – museum which covers the history of Pharmacy in the U.S. and abroad.
• First Drug Store in America – pictorial look at the first drug store in America and various developments.

Pharmacy Jobs

• Pharmacists – government information on the job of Pharmacist.
• Pharmacist Job Description – typical job description for a Pharmacist.
• Pharmacy Technicians and Aides – Department of Labor information on the profession.
• Pharmacy Technician Information – job description and information on being a Pharmacy Technician.
• Pharmacist Information – information on what a Pharmacist is and job duties.
• Main Types of Pharmacy – article listing the three main types of Pharmacy.

Pharmacy Duties

• Day in the Life of a Pharmacist – Princeton Review look at a typical day of a Pharmacist.
• Job Duties of a Pharmacy Technician – listing of the typical job function of a Pharmacy Technician.
• Pharmacist Facts and Tools – information on the field of Pharmacy.
• Pharmacy Technician Responsibilities and Duties – article outlining the job duties of a Pharmacy Technician.
• Pharmacist’s Duty to Warn – article from Harvard on the duty that Pharmacists have to counsel patients on potential dangers with prescriptions.
• Code of Ethics for Pharmacists – the code of honor and duty that all Pharmacists abide by.

Pharmacy Education

• Becoming a Pharmacist – information on what is needed to become a professional Pharmacist.
• Pharmacy Education Journal – articles and information on the Pharmacy career.
• Pharmacy Accreditation – information on what is needed for people to be certified in the Pharmacy field.
• Pharmacy School Admission Requirements – listing of the requirements that students would need to attain to be admitted to Pharmacy Schools.
• Pharmacist Education – helpful guide to education from the American Pharmacists Association.
• Pharmacy Technician Career and Education – information on what is needed to become a Pharmacy Technician.

Pharmacy Career

• Career Opportunities for Pharmacists – information from Purdue University about career opportunities for Pharmacists.
• Pharmacy Career Resources – Utexas Pharmacy career information and resources.
• Pharmacy Week – resourceful site for new and experienced Pharmacy workers.
• Pharmacy Career Corner – resources and information from Pharmacy Times.
• Pharmacy Career Resources – website from Berkley aimed at providing career resources in the Pharmacy profession.

Other Pharmacy Resources

• Pharmsites – collection of Pharmacy resources on the Internet.
• Virtual Library of Pharmacy – information and resources in the field of Pharmacy.
• American Chemical Society – site that deals with various chemicals that are used in the Pharmacy field.
• Clinical Pharmacy Resources – University of Iowa guide to clinical Pharmacy resources.
• Pharmacy Law Resources – information on legal topics in the Pharmacy field.
• Pharmacy Resources – helpful website from West Virginia University Library covering a wide range of topics in Pharmacy.
• Pharmacist Toolkit – information and resources that are helpful for Pharmacists.
• Library Resources – Pharmacy information from the OSU College of Pharmacy
• Pharmacy Technician Resources – collection of websites that are aimed at Pharmacy Technicians.
• Pharmacy Technician Subject Guide – resources for Pharmacy Technician students.
• Career Opportunity Resources – information on how to obtain a job in Pharmacy.

If the pharmacy technician career is appealing to you, perhaps one of these closely related medical careers will also pique your interest. These are careers with educational requirements, job settings and responsibilities similar to those of the pharmacy technician occupation.

Medical Assistants

• Job Responsibilities – Medical assistants work in physicians’ offices, hospitals and other healthcare settings to assist with clinical and administrative issues. Clinical assistants perform routine and basic clinical tasks, such as drawing blood, taking medical histories and preparing exam rooms for patients. Administrative assistants perform office duties, such as bookkeeping, scheduling patients and keeping up with office correspondence.
• Necessary Training – Most doctors prefer to hire medical assistants who have completed either a one-year diploma or two-year associate’s degree programs in medical assisting. These programs discuss basic medical science, as well as clinical techniques and administrative issues.
• Salary Info – $24,000-$33,000 a year

Dental Assistants

• Job Responsibilities – Dental assistants can be thought of as analogues of the medical assistant, which operate in the dental office. They may perform basic clinical tasks, such as sterilizing equipment or processing dental X-rays. Some make casts of teeth and prepare temporary crowns for patients. Many dental assistants also perform administrative office work, such as ordering materials, greeting patients and maintaining patient records.
• Necessary Training – Dental assisting programs are offered through junior and community colleges and vocational schools. These programs result in a certificate or diploma and generally take two years to complete.
• Salary Info – $27,000-$39,000 a year

Medical Transcriptionists

• Job Responsibilities – Medical transcriptionists create word-for-word typed records of dictated recordings made by physicians. These records are used for patient files, administrative purposes or for correspondence. Transcriptionists use a special foot pedal and headset to listen to the tape and start and stop the recording.
• Necessary Training – Medical transcriptionist training is available in the form of one-year diploma and two-year associate’s degree programs. While not required, these programs often includes on-the-job training and can increase employment opportunities.
• Salary Info – $27,000-$39,000 a year

Medical Records and Health Information Technicians

• Job Responsibilities – Medical records and health information technicians maintain information and data in hospitals, physician offices, clinics, and other medical settings. They update patient records and retrieve records for clinicians. They maintain electronic health systems and secure patient data.

• Necessary Training – An associate’s degree in healthcare informatics is usually required by employers. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education accredits these programs.
• Salary Info – $24,000-$39,000 a year

Pharmacy technician jobs are in high demand, and job prospects are expected to increase as the nation's population ages. There may be plenty of jobs, but there is still a lot of competition. Here's a guide to making yourself more competitive in the pharmacy technician job market.

Internships - Job Boards - Cover Letter/Resume for Current Professionals - Cover Letter/Resume for New Grads

Pharmacy Technician Internships

As everyone knows, experience is the qualification that hiring committees value the most. What better way is there to get experience than through an internship? Pharmacy technician internships are available, although they are not as prevalent as in other careers. The best way to find an internship is to contact a pharmacy or hospital directly, or search on their website, for availabilities.

Some pharmacy technician training programs have an internship requirement. Some may require that your last year or semester be spent in an internship getting on-the-job training. These internships may turn into full-time positions if your work is satisfactory. In these cases, the school or training program you are attending will often match you up with an employer.

Internships, however, are typically not required. In fact, some pharmacy technician positions require no more than a high school diploma and on-the-job training. However, all positions require state certification, and a technician with a college degree and national certification will be highly desirable in the job market.

Finding a Job

Where does a pharmacy technician find a job? Hospitals, clinics, and retails pharmacies often post jobs in the classifieds section of newspapers, or on their websites. Pharmacy technician positions can also be found on job boards around the web.

After you find a job to apply to, your next step is submitting a stand-out cover letter and resume. Cover letters are not only a way to introduce yourself to a prospective employer, but a chance to brag about your skills as well. Resumes should list your qualifications, with strong action words and numbers detailing your strengths.

Cover Letter Example for Current Professionals

Resume Example for Current Professionals

Cover Letter Example for New Graduates

Resume Example for New Graduates

Article Resources:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Pharmaceutical chemistry, also known as medicinal chemistry, is a meeting of the minds between the disciplines of pharmacology and chemistry. The concept behind the discipline is the research and development of prescription medications. Pharmaceutical chemists use their knowledge of chemistry to create compounds for medical applications. These professionals must have an extensive awareness of current drugs on the market, what they do, as well as what they are missing. This knowledge combined with research help them to create or synthesize new pharmaceutical compounds that improve on old ones or provide new treatment options in areas where previous attempts did not exist.

This particular field is an interdisciplinary science. Professionals work with both organic and metal containing compounds, molecules, and biopolymers and combine those compounds with extensive study in chemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, and statistics. Their first initial steps are to find compounds with the biological properties necessary for their current research. In other words, they look for plants, animals, fungi, and inorganic chemical elements that exhibit properties with a potential to treat or cure medical conditions. This may require combining compounds which have a beneficial chemical reaction.

Drug discovery occurs when a pharmaceutical chemist identifies a novel active compound. This is called a hit. Hits are merely clues for these chemists. A hit represents a positive outcome in an experiment where the chemist tests compounds against a biological target. For example, certain compounds containing platinum have been found to contain anti-cancer agents. This provided a hit that let researchers know they were on the right track. Further modification and testing help determine if a particular compound warrants further development as a pharmaceutical drug. As development progresses medicinal chemists render the compound in such a way as to prepare it for clinical trials and FDA approval. However, the road from identification to clinical trial is a long one and requires extensive experimentation and research.

To become a medicinal chemist does not necessarily require a degree in pharmaceutical chemistry. However, extensive education and a graduate level chemistry program is considered the minimum requirement. It is not uncommon to find a chemist whose area of study or degree is in organic chemistry. There are graduate schools and pharmaceutical colleges that offer Masters and PhD level degree programs in medicinal chemistry. Since this particular profession requires such interdisciplinary science, it is possible that professionals may hold both chemistry and biology degrees of different varieties. For example, a medicinal chemist might have formal training that focuses on a chemistry degree with a minor in biology. Even with a PhD in medicinal chemistry, additional education post-doctorate of up to three years is recommended, as well as an extensive understanding of the regulations involved in drug discovery.

• ACS Division of Medicinal Chemistry: American Chemical Society features a description of what a medicinal chemist is, in layman’s terms.
• The European Federation for Medicinal Chemistry: Over 20 European countries participate in this professional organization with ties to ACS.
• Royal Society of Chemistry: RSC contains a wealth of chemistry-related information, some very specific to pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry and the site has an easy-to-use search feature to browse hundreds of pages of content.
• The Journal of Medicinal Chemistry: First publication in 1957 and the most cited in 2009, JMC requires a subscription but some content is sponsored and is available online for free.
• A Career in Medicinal Chemistry: University of Washington School of Pharmacy offers a PhD program in Medicinal Chemistry.
• Nature Reviews Articles on Drug Discovery: This site contains numerous links to full text articles relative to the process of drug discovery and what it entails.
• Medicinal Chemistry Glossary of Terms: First published in 1998, the IUPAC seeks to keep an up to date online glossary of terms pertaining to medicinal chemistry.
• Extensive Resources from IUPAC: The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Chemistry and Human Health Division provides an exhaustive list of resources, including links to full text PDF books and other projects sponsored by IUPAC on the subject of Medicinal Chemistry.
• Future Medicinal Chemistry: Full text PDF copies of issues from one of the leading professional journals covering medicinal chemistry.
• Ole Miss MedChem Program: Link offers not only basic overview of what medicinal chemistry is, but also information about University of Mississippi’s medicinal chemistry degree programs.
• American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists: The AAPS website provides extensive information on drug discovery.
• Careers in Medicinal Chemistry: Published by Chemical and Engineering News, this article discusses the outlook on careers in medicinal chemistry from 2003 into the future.
• Medicinal Chemistry Research at Purdue: Purdue is involved in numerous areas of medicinal and molecular chemistry research that focuses on disease treatment, prevention, and cures.
• Welcome to the National Center for Cancer Research: Extensive information is available from NCCR about clinical trials and other aspects of cancer research and medicinal chemistry.
• Newton Ask a Scientist: Advice from a working scientist in relation to a student’s questions about training and career paths in medicinal chemistry.
• History and Background on Governmentally Funded Medicinal Chemistry Study: The National Institute of Health sponsored this study before adapting the latest study, which is also discussed.
• The FDA: The FDA provides extensive resources and information for both consumers and professionals concerning drug discovery, proper clinical trials, and other regulations of interest to medicinal chemists.
• Changing How the FDA Handles New Drugs: The Critical Path Initiative from the FDA seeks to change the process by which new drugs are developed and clinical trials are carried out, publishing up to date information for both consumers and researchers.
• Barcelona Institute for Research: Report from IRB Barcelona on what their medicinal chemistry division does, projects currently underway, and other pharmaceutical chemistry information.
• A Brief Look at What MedChem Labs Do: This brochure from Southwest Research Institute provides an informative look into what a medicinal chemistry lab does in terms of services, experiments, and clinical trials preparation.
• Chemical Toxicology Newsletter: The ACS Division of Chemical Toxicology publishes a newsletter for members with articles available online covering resent developments in the industry.
• Endeavor to Learn More About What is Happening in MedChem: Scripps Research Institute publishes Endeavor Magazine, which is available for download in PDF format, and discusses currently advancements and news in MedChem.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Scientist: The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers career overviews, job outlooks, and training requirements for the field of medical science, which includes drug and pharmaceutical research.
• Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry: Published by Betham Science, this page contains numerous abstracts and full text articles covering current findings and topics of research in Medicinal Chemistry.
• Find Clinical Study Results: This website provides a user-friendly resource for finding the results of clinical drug studies, each of which can be searched by company, disease, or medication name.
• Inside Drug Discovery: Innovation.org is a joint effort of numerous pharmaceutical and biotech companies and here they explain the process of drug discovery.
• Research, Courses, and Reports: The Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development is affiliated with Tufts University and provides extensive information on current issues facing drug development as well as continuing education for MedChem professionals.
• The Many Articles of Dr. Stephen DeFelice: Founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, Dr. DeFelice has written several articles and been published in print publications on the topic of medicinal chemistry, among other medicinal subjects.
• Drug Research Shortcomings: Article published by the University of Southern California, it covers the shortcomings in comparative effectiveness drug research, one of the current topics of discussion in medicinal chemistry.
• Technology and Global PharmChem Development: This article, published in 2006, explains how medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry and the drug development industry has been impacted by modern technology and what that means globally.
• Walter Reed Oldest MedChem Institute in the U.S: Walter Reed Army Institute of Research is the oldest public health research institute in the country, and the largest biomedical lab in the military, as well as boasting a long list of accomplishments in drug research.
• Drug Discovery from a Business Perspective: Drug Discovery World is an industry publication covering the business aspect of drug discovery.
• Clinical Trial Regulations, Policies, and Guidance: From the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this page hosts a wealth of resources to ensure pharmaceutical chemists and other scientists understand how to conduct clinical trials as part of the drug discovery process.
• Registration for Clinical Trials: Part of the responsibility of being a pharmaceutical chemist involves the responsible operation of clinical trials, which is heavily regulated and requires registration and compliance with federal standards.

Some people say it's a crime worthy of incarceration. Others call it a sickness that needs to be treated. Others still have gone as far as to call it a conspiracy against the lower class and minorities. No matter what people's opinions are, there can be no denying that substance abuse is and has been one of society's biggest problems.

Substance abuse affects millions of people across the country. A 2009 survey performed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 8.7 percent of people over the age of 12 had admitted to illicit drug use in the past month. While drug and alcohol use among teens has declined somewhat in recent years, the rate at which young people use and abuse drugs and alcohol is still cause for concern. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has found that tobacco use among teens was at an all-time low in 2009, with only 8.9 percent of teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 admitting to using tobacco. Meanwhile, the use of illegal drugs such as marijuana, ecstasy and methamphetamine has been on the rise. Furthermore, NIDA has also reported that 30.2 million people admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol at least once in the past year according to the survey.

There is no question that substance abuse is still a major problem in our society. Of course, the most obvious problems associated with substance abuse and addictions are the health issues they can cause. Many who are addicted to drugs can suffer brain damage, respiratory damage, liver damage: in the case of alcohol abuse: and dental damage when methamphetamine use is a problem. Many illicit substances can even kill users in the case of overdoses, something that can occur all too easily as the body builds up a tolerance to a substance. Addiction can affect other aspects of one's life as well. Many people who have substance abuse problems often find that they are unable to find and keep steady employment and those that do often pose a risk to others on the job if they arrive to work even slightly intoxicated. Drug-related problems in the workplace are just some of the reasons why the economic cost of substance abuse was a staggering $180.9 billion in 2002. Furthermore, drug addicts who have children have often been known to neglect them, as many of these parents place their habits above the need for their children to have proper medical care and shelter.

Commonly Abused Substances

Drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and other commonly abused substances can come in many forms. Some of these are more harmful and addictive than others and some are, of course, legal and arguably safe when used responsibly. They all have the potential to be abused however, and that abuse can be very dangerous. These are a few of the substances that are more commonly abused by teens and adults alike:

• Tobacco: Tobacco is a plant found in cigarettes, cigars and in smokeless forms, such as chew or snuff. It is usually smoked in cigarettes, cigars or pipes, but it can also be chewed or snorted. The active ingredient in tobacco is nicotine, which increases blood pressure and heart rate in addition to being very addictive. Long-term tobacco use can result in chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease and cancer in various parts of the body such as the mouth, larynx and lungs. It can also have adverse effects to an unborn child if it is used by the mother during pregnancy.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is of course found in numerous drinks such as wine, beer and liquor. In small doses, alcohol can create a state of mild euphoria and lower one's inhibitions. Larger doses cause slurred speech, nausea, drowsiness, a lack of coordination, visual distortions, sexual dysfunction, and loss of consciousness. Especially large doses can even be fatal. Long-term health risks of alcohol include depression cirrhosis of the liver, depression, neurological problems, and fetal damage when consumed by pregnant women. It can also be physically and psychologically addictive.
• Cannabinoids: Cannabinoids include both marijuana and hashish, both of which can be either smoked or swallowed. These substances cause euphoria, relaxation, slow reaction times, and impaired coordination. It can also have serious negative effects such as paranoia, increased heart rate, anxiety, and even psychosis. Cannabinoids aren't as physically addictive as many other substances, but they have been known to be psychologically addictive. The fact that they are often smoked also may lead to respiratory problems similar to those seen with tobacco use, albeit less severe.
• Opioids: Opioids include heroin and opium. The use of these drugs causes euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and a general lack of coordination. Long-term effects include constipation and addiction as well as the risk of a fatal overdose. Because heroin is often injected, users have the added risk of contracting HIV or hepatitis from contaminated needles.
• Stimulants: Stimulants cover a number of drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines that increase the heart rate and create a feeling of exhilaration and alertness in the user. They can also cause tremors, irritability, anxiety, reduced appetite, and psychosis. They are very addictive and long-term use can result in severe weight loss, cardiovascular complications and the increased risk of seizures. Cocaine can also cause nasal damage when it is snorted, while methamphetamine use can result in severe dental problems.
• Hallucinogens: Hallucinogens are substances that can create an altered sense of perception and feeling (hallucinations, in other words) in the user. They can also cause nausea, tremors, sleeplessness, feelings of anxiety or panic, and impulsive behavior. Some of the more common hallucinogens include LSD, mescaline and psilocybin ("magic mushrooms").

Prescription drug abuse is associated with three types of prescription drugs; Opioids, CNS suppressants, and stimulants. Opioid addictions are extremely dangerous and may need methadone treatment to recover from. CNS suppressants are very commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and withdrawal without treatment can be extremely dangerous. Stimulants, such as Adderal, can leave patients with the same withdrawal symptoms as cocaine. Prescription drug abuse is very dangerous and can become a problem very quickly. Using prescription drugs inappropriately can quickly disrupt a patient’s neurological pathways, disrupting the ability to feel pleasure from normal activities. Medical complications can also be extremely dangerous leading to seizures, anxiety, depression, and even death. All drug addictions need to be properly evaluated by a medical professional to avoid complications.

Resources for Those with Substance Abuse Problems

Many times people do not feel that they have a problem with substance abuse, but they are actually completely dependent on them. Also, it is common for people to become addicted to the painkillers and drugs they are prescribed after an injury or accident. While the need for the medication may be over, the addiction is not.

If you or someone you know has a problem with substance abuse, there is help available. One of the most well-known alcohol treatment programs in the world is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). AA has several chapters all over the world dedicated to helping those struggling with alcoholism to become sober and fix the damage that has been done to their lives. You can visit them online and find a chapter near you. There are also countless other drug and alcohol treatment centers all over the country, some of which will most definitely be in your area. For a more comprehensive listing of treatment centers across the country and to find other resources that may prove useful in helping a loved one recover from an addiction, visit the Alcohol Drug Abuse Help & Resource Center.

People have treatment options available for overcoming substance abuse. Generally, people that rely on substances to function cannot stop on their own and need professional help. To help understand substance abuse and the treatment options, we have assembled the following collection of resources:

Teens and Prescription Drug Abuse

Teen prescription drug abuse has skyrocketed in only the past few years. Prescription drugs are readily available at school or in the medicine cabinets at their own homes. Parents need to be especially careful with controlled substances and add prescription drug abuse to their discussions about the harmful effects of drugs. Teens are especially vulnerable due to peer pressure and the ease of accessibility in the illegal use of prescription drugs. 

• Harvard Study on Teen Drug Abuse: Harvard performed a very interesting study on how many teens have already abused prescription drugs.
• How Teens Are Getting Their Hands on Prescription Drugs: Jaw-dropping statistics on where teens are getting their illegal prescriptions from.
• Teen Drug Abuse Facts and Resources: Comprehensive resource provided by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, detailing the percentages of teens addicted to prescriptions and the types of prescriptions they are using illegally.

The Elderly and Prescription Drug Abuse

Elderly patients are also at risk for prescription drug abuse. Many elderly patients suffer from tremendous pain and have difficulties remembering to take their medications. Developing a system for preventing abuse is essential to ensuring elderly patients do not become addicts. This should include monitoring daily medication intake and refill time periods.

• Ways to Avoid Elderly Prescription Drug Abuse: Oregon State University outlines how elderly patients are becoming addicted to prescription drugs.
• Complications Related to Elderly Prescription Drug Abuse: Elderly patients are particularly at risk for developing complications due to the huge amounts of prescriptions they receive and their reluctance to discontinue certain medications.
• Elderly Prescription Drug Abuse and Physicians Roles: Comprehensive background and plan for preventing elderly prescription drug abuse.
• Prevention Tactics for the Elderly: Website detailing what prescription drugs and substances elderly patients are susceptible to abusing and how to prevent it.

Substance Abuse Signs

• Danger Signals: A listing of general warning signs for alcohol and substance abuse.
• Substance Abuse and Chemical Dependency: An article listing information and definition of substance abuse and chemical dependency.
• Substance Abuse Warning Signs: A listing of ten warning signs for possible substance abuse problems.
• Teen Signals: Warning signs for teens and substance abuse.
• OTC Drug Abuse: signals of problems with over the counter drug abuse.
• Drug Signs and Teenagers: Signs that parents can look for in their teens for substance abuse.
• Signs and Symptoms of Drug Abuse: Information on what to look for with drug and substance abuse.
• Signs Among Youth: Warning signs to look for with drug and alcohol abuse in youth.

Substance Abuse Symptoms

• Managing Symptoms: Information on how to manage symptoms of substance abuse.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: FAQs on withdrawal symptoms of alcohol abuse.
• Prescription and OTC Abuse: Facts and information on symptoms of prescription and other the counter drug abuse.
• Prescription Drug Abuse: Information and symptoms relating to prescription drug abuse.
• Substance Abuse Information: A variety of information on different types of abuse.
• Symptoms and Tests: Information on symptoms and tests for addiction and substance abuse.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: An article outlining symptoms of diet and substance abuse withdrawal.
• Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal: Resources on symptoms associated with drug and alcohol withdrawal.

Substances

• Drug Classifications: A listing of the various types of substances.
• Substance Abuse Webquest: An educational look at various aspects of substance abuse.
• Intro to Drug Use and Abuse: Basic information on drugs, use and abuse including definitions.
• Drugs of Abuse: A government resource outlining types of drugs that are often abused.
• Substance Abuse Problems: A resourceful site listing the various types of substances.
• Science Behind Drug Abuse: An educational site aimed at teaching teens about substance abuse.
• Substance Abuse: Resources outlining information on substance abuse in families.
• Substances and Abuse: An article discussing the problems of substance abuse.

Substance Abuse Help

• Treatment Help: Information on how to get help for substance abuse.
• Principals of Drug Addiction Treatment: An outline of the steps needed to treat drug addication.
• Alcohol and Drug Programs: Information on state programs for alcohol and drug abuse.
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse Information: A resourceful site outlining treatment and monitoring programs available for alcohol and drug abuse.
• Substance Abuse Treatments: An article outlining treatment options for heavy drug users.
• Center for Alcohol Studies: Information on center dedicated to alcohol abuse and treatment.
• Substance Abuse Treatment Evaluation: A site dedicated to evaluating the effectiveness of substance abuse treatment programs.
• Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Information on alcohol and substance abuse.

Substance Abuse Prevention

• Drug and Substance Abuse Prevention: A helpful resource discussing substance abuse and prevention.
• Prevention FAQ: FAQs on substance abuse and prevention.
• Substance Abuse Prevention: A site outlining efforts of colleges and universities at preventing students from abusing substances.
• Online Prevention: A virtual community covering substance abuse prevention.
• Center for Substance Abuse Prevention: A government-sponsored site dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of substance abuse.
• Drug Abuse: A government site containing resources aimed at drug abuse prevention.
• Preventing Drug Abuse: A site aimed at teens and adolescents.
• Prevention Services: Information on services and resources available for substance abuse.

Sources

Prescription drugs play a major role in the treatment and prevention of countless diseases and conditions around the world.  In fact, it has been estimated that nearly four billion prescriptions are filled each year in the United States alone.  The importance of prescription medication cannot be denied, but it's also true that these drugs can be very harmful if they are misused or if they fall into the wrong hands.  As many as one-third of all dispensed medications are not used, and when they are thrown away, they can have an adverse affect on the environment or the health of others.  In 1999 and 2000, a nationwide study was performed by the United States Geology survey which proved that low levels of antibiotics, steroids, contraceptives and other medications could be found in as much as 80 percent of the country's lakes and streams.  Even low levels of these materials have been proven to reduce fertility and affect the spawning of fish and other aquatic animals.  

It is very important that all unused medications as well as syringes and needles for insulin be disposed of properly.  While some medications can be safely flushed away or thrown in the trash, many others can be very harmful even if they are expired.  Here are a few tips to help you get rid of your unused and unwanted medication.

• If you must throw medication in the trash, mix it with an unpalatable material such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter.  Dumpster divers can find your unused medication in the trash, but simply mixing it with something unappealing may deter would-be thieves from looking too closely in a garbage can.  Place this mixture in a sealed plastic bag. 
• Avoid crushing unused tablets and pills, as it can cause the medication to easily mix into the ground or into your city's water supply.
• Never throw used syringes and needles in the trash.  This is illegal in many cities across the country.  These needles could carry germs and perpetuate the spread of HIV, hepatitis and other dangerous diseases.  Keep needles and lancets in a container away from children or pets.  Many local recycling plants will take these needles and dispose of them safely free of charge.  Contact your local recycling plant for more information on the safe disposal of needles and syringes.  You may also be able to return the needles to a local pharmacy or clinic as long as they are in a sealed "sharps" container.  There may be a fee associated with this service, however.
• Most medications have instructions on how to dispose of them safely.  It is very important that you follow these instructions very closely.  Know what medications can be safely thrown away.  Some more dangerous medications must be flushed if they are particularly dangerous.  A list of medications that can be safely flushed away can be found on the FDA's website.

The safest and best way to get rid of unused medication is through medicine take-back programs.  These services will take unwanted or unused medication off your hands and ensure that it is properly and safely disposed of.  Contact your county's recycling or trash disposal service to see if there are any such services in your community.

Sources

"Safe and legal disposal of sharps."  Public Health - Seattle and King County

Dispose My Meds

"Disposal of Unused Medicines: What You Should Know."  U.S. Food and Drug Administration

"Drugs in New York's Waters."  Department of Environmental Conservation

We all know that smoking is bad for you. Similarly, it is common knoweldge that secondhand smoke is harmful to one's health if subjected to it. But why exactly? This article explores the nature and danger of secondhand smoke. 

What exactly is secondhand smoke?

There are two kinds of secondhand smoke: first, there is the smoke that comes from the end of a burning cigarette; and second, there is the secondhand smoke that has been inahled by the smoker and exhaled into the air. The first kind of secondhand smoke is commonly referred to as "sidestream smoke." This smoke is much more harmful then the smoke exhaled by a smoker, and even more harmful than the smoke inhaled by a smoker, which goes through the cigarette's filter. The smoke exhaled by the smoker is called "mainstream smoke." Mainstream smoke is not as harmful as sidestream smoke, since many of the harmful carcinogens present in mainstream smoke have already been absorbed by the cells in the smoker's body. 

How harmful is secondhand smoke?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. National Toxicology Program, the U.S. Surgeon General, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer all list secondhand smoke as a known cancer-causing agent. There are 7,000 chemicals in secondhand smoke. 250 of those chemicals are known to be harmful, like ammonia and cyanide. Almost 70 of those chemicals are known to cause cancer, such as arsenic and vinyl chloride. Secondhand smoke also contains toxic metal and formaldehyde, i.e., embalming fluid. Simply put, anytime smoke is inhaled into the body, that body will suffer harms ranging from mere throat or nasal irritation (short-term) to more serious conditions, such as emphysema. Other short-term effects of secondhand smoke include the normal functioning of the heart and vascular system in a way that increases the chance of having a heart attack. 

Each year, around 3,000 cancer-related deaths are attributable to secondhand smoke intake, and those who live with smokers increase their chance of developing lung cancer by 20 to 30 percent. There is research that also suggests a link between secondhand smoke and the risk of breast cancer and nasal sinus cavity cancer in adults, as well as increased risks of developing leukemia, lymphoma and brain tumors in children.

There is no safe level of secondhand smoke intake. The only way to completely eliminate the risk of cancer and heart disease from secondhand smoke intake is to completely eliminate secondhand smoke. Smoking indoors or in non-ventilated areas will greatly increase the harmful effects secondhand smoke can have on others. 

For more information on the effects of secondhand smoke, check out the following resources.

• cancer.gov - this government-sponsored website that details more of the harmful chemicals and cancer-causing agents found in secondhand smoke.
• cancer.org - an organization devoted to informing the public on the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in terms of developing cancer. 
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention - this government agency's fact sheet gives all the relevant facts on secondhand smoke, as well as related resources. 

All people are familiar with the roles of doctors in administering medical care, but pharmacists are equally important in caring for patients and helping people get well. Formerly known as apothecaries, pharmacists are individuals who are trained and licensed to mix and dispense medications.

Employed mainly at hospitals and pharmacies, pharmacists fill prescriptions, advise patients on how to properly take their medicines, and warn them about what they should and should not do when they are taking a particular prescription. Pharmacists must have extensive knowledge of chemistry and medicine in order to do their jobs properly.

Pharmacists and apothecaries work under the rubric of pharmacology, which is the study of how different drugs and medicines affect the human body. To one degree or another, this science has been practiced throughout history, as human beings have long known that certain herbs and other naturally occurring substances can alleviate symptoms and even help cure certain afflictions.

In ancient Egypt, apothecaries experimented with different medicines as early as the sixteenth century BC. Some of the things they used for medicines, with varying levels of success, included myrrh, beer, salt, and even hooves from donkey! In ancient and medieval times, apothecaries often did their work in conjunction with priests and other religious figures, as it was believed that demons and other supernatural beings played a large role in sickness and disease.

As knowledge of medicines increased over the course of history, so too did the number and variety of remedies. Through trial and error over many centuries, pharmacists and apothecaries become more adept at concocting different medicines, many of which continue in use to this day. The ancient Greeks and Romans used herbs for many applications. Citizens of Athens, for example, often used rubs made of herbs because they thought they would give them more strength and courage. During the Middle Ages, monks raised herb gardens and used what they produced to treat a variety of conditions, including cramps.

New discoveries of a variety of drugs accompanied both the Scientific Revolution and the Industrial Revolution. Acetylsalicylic acid, for the active ingredient in aspirin, was first developed at the end of the nineteenth century. Others discovered drugs as well and had them patented. In fact, many of the drug companies around today are named for an individual who discovered or first marketed an important drug many decades ago.

Since there have been apothecaries and pharmacists around for centuries, there are many important figures in history who served in these positions, dispensing medicines and other drug advice. Historically speaking, Islam has made important contributions to pharmacology, especially during the medieval period. The famous Muslim scientist Avicenna (b. 980 AD) wrote an important textbook titled The Canon of Medicine, a multivolume work that is one of the first encyclopedias of pharmacy.

A few centuries later, the famous Christian poet Dante Alighieri served for a time in the apothecary guild. Closer to the current age, Benjamin Franklin worked as an apothecary for a short time before he became such an influential political figure. Coca-Cola, perhaps the world’s best-known brand-name product, was invented by the pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886, and it was originally marketed as having medicinal purposes.

As medical knowledge continues to advance, there is little doubt that the science of pharmacology will progress as well. Pharmacists will play an important role far into the future in taking this science and applying it to the needs of everyday people. The end result will be better health for everyone.

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If you've ever filled a medical prescription at your local drug store, chances are you've interacted with a pharmacy technician. It is a well-known fact that pharmacists prescribe and dispense prescription drugs, and they can be the best source of information regarding a drug and its side effects. What many people might not realize is that pharmacists often require the help of pharmacy technicians or aides throughout the work day.

Daily Tasks

Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in a variety of capacities, including counting pills and performing clerical work, such as answering phones and providing customer service. Pharmacists may guide technicians through sorting, weighing, and mixing prescriptions. Technicians must refer any questions about drugs or drug interactions to a pharmacist, and all prescriptions must be inspected by the pharmacist before they are given to a patient.

For the most part, pharmacy technicians process prescription requests from doctors, clinics, and hospitals. They label prescription bottles and fill orders with the correct drug and dosage. Technicians also are responsible for processing insurance claims and ensuring proper payment is received for the prescriptions.

Pharmacy technicians are on their feet for the majority of the work day, and are expected to climb stepladders and lift heavy boxes. Because the job can be physically demanding, many positions are just part-time. Jobs at 24-hour care facilities, like clinics or nursing homes, may include some night shifts. Approximately 75 percent of pharmacy technicians work in retail positions, including pharmacies at local drug stores or supermarkets. The other 25 percent work in hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. In clinical positions, pharmacy technicians may also be expected to deliver medicines directly to patients and assist them with taking the correct dose.

Education & Licensing

Some pharmacy technician positions require only a high school degree, with on-the-job training to gain a certification. However, many positions require at least some formal training.

Pharmacy technician programs can be found at community colleges or on the Internet at online schools. These programs can take six months to two years to complete. After school, some technicians choose to become certified through a national pharmacy technician training program. This is usually not required, but it does make a candidate more desirable.

Pharmacy technicians must be licensed by their state, and renew their qualifications every two years with 20 hours of continuing education. In some states, half of this requirement can be accomplished with on-the-job training, and the other half can be gained through classes at local community colleges or pharmacy associations.

Some technicians choose to take continuing education in a specific field, like chemotherapy technician training. With these classes, pharmacy technicians can work in a more specific field, or become a supervisor. Because of the increasing number of aging patients, pharmacy jobs are expected to increase 25 percent over the next decade, which is much faster than average job growth expectations.

Characteristics & Expectations

Pharmacy technicians earn an hourly salary, which on average is $13 per hour. The average annual salary for a technician is $30,000. Because of the high demand for medical care in all areas of the nation, pharmacy technician positions can be found throughout the country.

Good pharmacy technicians are cool-headed and precise. Prescription drugs can be extremely harmful in the wrong doses, and technicians must be extremely careful when filling prescriptions. They also should have good customer service skills, considering they not only deal with people on a regular basis, but sick people who may not have much patience. Also, Pharmacy technicians must have strong math and spelling skills in order to properly fill prescriptions.

Article Resources:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Economic Research Institute

Navigating today's job market can be a challenge. However, knowing who is hiring is a good start. Columbus State's pharmacy technician program is connected with local companies like Progressive Medical, who have positions available for Columbus State students. The news team at NBC 4 features the affordable program that prepares you for a field full of hiring possibilities.

Cabot Rea: If you are looking for a job or new career, we have an idea for you. It’s in the medical field, specifically pharmacy tech positions. You have to pass a state exam, but a 10-week program offered at Columbus State may be able to help and may just land you a job. Amy Basista has this “Your Money: Finding a Job” story.

Amy Basista: Here at Channel 4 we know times are tough. That’s why we’re here for you. We want to help you find a job.  Let me tell you about a local company. They’re over on Westerville called Progressive Medical and they are hiring. What they do [is] they manage medical claims, they sell medical equipment and they run a mail-order pharmacy. What they’re looking for are medical technicians. 

Andrew Lewis: We’re hiring across the board in our organization, but specifically we are hiring pharmacy technicians. 

Basista: If you want to become a pharmacy tech, there is some information you need to know. Under a new Ohio law inspired by the memory of Emily Jerry, a two-year-old who died due to a prescription error while in the hospital, pharmacy technicians [are required] to have a high school diploma or the equivalent, as well as pass a pharmacy proficiency exam and go through a criminal background check. That’s where Columbus State comes into play.

Mandee Millard went through the 10-week program and the school then had an open house and Mandee was hired.

Mandee Millard: You can go and take your state board tests without taking this program. You don’t have to take it, but it really tells you whether or not you want to get a job in something like this. You learn how to compound medications [and] you learn how to make IVs.

Basista: Progressive Medical is one of several that hire two to three students per quarter.

Lewis: They come to us prepared.

Basista: The company usually pays $12-to-14 per hour and you receive benefits the day you walk through the door. The course at Columbus State costs about $750. That price does include your books. It could land you a job in 10 weeks.

Millard: I’m very happy with my decision. 

Basista: Amy Basista, NBC 4. 

Rea: And if you are looking for more information on the program offered at Columbus State or you’d like to apply for a job online at Progressive Medical, visit our website at www2.nbc4i.com/ – keyword: “jobs.”

Pharmacists have a very important role in the healthcare industry. They are given the duty of gathering and dispensing medication that has been prescribed by doctors. These duties are vital and must be taken seriously.

To ensure quality healthcare, pharmacists have created a code of conduct that spells out moral, ethical and social obligations. The American Pharmaceutical Association was the first professional organization to adopt this code. The code of ethics has changed several times since the first code was established in 1848, with the most recent change enacted in 1994.

The code has several parts which deal with how pharmacists should behave in a professional setting. The most recent version of the code was ratified by the membership of the American Pharmaceutical Association on October 27, 1994. The major parts of the code are as follows:

• Preamble – This outlines the duties and responsibilities of a pharmacist.
• Section I - A pharmacist respects the covenantal relationship between the patient and pharmacist.
• Section II - A pharmacist promotes the good of every patient in a caring, compassionate, and confidential manner.
• Section III - A pharmacist respects the autonomy and dignity of each patient.
• Section IV - A pharmacist acts with honesty and integrity in professional relationships.
• Section V - A pharmacist maintains professional competence.
• Section VI - A pharmacist respects the values and abilities of colleagues and other health professionals.
• Section VII - A pharmacist serves individual, community, and societal needs.
• Section VIII - A pharmacist seeks justice in the distribution of health resources.

These eight sections display the professional responsibilities and duties of pharmacists. All pharmacists must abide by this code in their everyday professional life.

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Since the beginning of time, human beings have been practicing medicine in some form or another. Each major age in history had their own treatments, surgeries, hospitals, public health issues and alternatives to standard medical practice. The science of medicine has evolved over time from the use of herbs and religious incantations to state of the art medical equipment and pharmaceutical drugs. If the history of medicine has proven anything, it is that the field of medicine will look drastically different a hundred years from now than it does today.

Prehistory and the Ancient World

The earliest recorded information regarding the history of medicine comes from the Stone Ages, where shamans experimented with and used different herbs for medicinal purposes, some of which doctors still use today. For example, shamans used the snake root plant in prehistoric times to calm patients, which is still used today to lower blood pressure. Extracts of Curare, used on the tip of arrows by warriors to paralyze their enemy, is now a muscle relaxant in modern medicine. The first surgical procedure, known as trepanning, occurred over 4,000 years ago. Shamans performed trepanning by scraping a hole in the top of a human’s head and through the skull. People believed this procedure allowed evil spirits to escape the body, as well as gave the shaman more power to heal the sick individual.

An Indian shaman named Susruta established the first organized practice of medicine in 6 BC. He listed 1,120 known diseases as well as the 760 herbal drugs used to treat them and organized surgical tools by sharp objects and blunt ones. The concept of medicine in ancient India centered on the idea that the human body is comprised of three parts (spirit, phlegm and bile) that must work in harmony for overall good health.

Scholars credit Ancient Egypt with establishing the first public health system by offering specialized training for doctors as well as health insurance plans for workers. They also created the first hospitals which most closely resemble those of today, moving the practice of medicine from a doctor’s home to a place of work. The Babylonians were the first civilization to introduce the concept of diagnostic testing and providing a prognosis to patients in its largest medical text The Diagnostic Handbook, published sometime between 1069 and 1046 BC.

Between 460 and 370 BC, the man known as the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, began studying and practicing medicine in ancient Greece. He and his students published over 70 medical texts and history credits him with creating the Hippocratic oath that doctor’s still take today. Hippocrates was the first physician to categorize illnesses by severity as well as how contagious they were. The Ancient Greeks, who performed them relatively successfully on the human brain and eyes, established the advanced use of surgical procedures. The Romans were the first to invent standardized surgical tools.

• Indiana Universit:y A collection of essays regarding medicine in ancient Greece.
• Minnesota State University: Provides information regarding the Hippocratic Oath and a brief history of Greek medicine.
• National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine: Provides information regarding ancient Indian medicine.

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The Middle Ages

Medicine in the Middle Ages was based largely on the information and texts from the Romans and Greeks. The first true medical teaching facility, the Academy of Jundishapur, came about during this period in Persia. Most of the major medical advancements of this time came from Muslim physicians, who expounded on the work of ancient texts. Muslim doctors were the first to regularly use alcohol in their practice, for both anesthetic purposes as well as cleaning wounds, and were the first to apply mathematics to the practice of medicine, creating the earliest known pharmaceutical practices by creating systematic doses of medicines based on a particular patient’s needs. The Kitab al-Tasrif was a thirty volume medical encyclopedia developed by Muslims in this period and introduced the practice of quarantines to limit the spread of infectious diseases, as well as created the first clinical trials in history, animal testing, and discovery of the body’s structural and nervous system.

In Europe during this time, monasteries were the main practitioners of medicine, as they often had a hospital attached to them. The first medical college, founded during the 11th century, moved the practice of medicine from relying on folk-lore and religion to relying on observation and scientific fact. People of the middle ages were plagued by skin diseases brought on by their tight fighting wool clothing, intestinal diseases due to lack of proper nutrition and pandemics such as the Black Death. Treatment for these diseases often resulted in the local officials creating settlements for those suffering, especially when it came to leprosy. The Black Death killed well over 150 million people, with four out of five of those contracting the disease dying within a week. Treatments varied from diet to bloodletting (one of the few surgeries performed at this time), with smaller villages relying on witchcraft.

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The Renaissance

Doctors of the Renaissance period introduced the dissection and study of the human body and the development of modern neurology. Despite this and the improvement of diagnostic medicine, the gains in medical knowledge were not great during this period. The only major drugs of use were opium and quinine, with ancient herbal and metal based drugs still being the norm. Battlefields became a teaching ground to perfect surgical practices and the easing of a patient’s pain became a high priority for doctors. 

The only major surgeries practiced during this time were amputations of limbs. The largest discovery in this period was the fact that food and drink did not create blood as previously believed, rather the heart recycled and circulated blood. Due to the high cost of seeing a licensed physician, many turned to midwives for not only childbirth but medicinal treatments as well, and those requiring surgery turned to barbers for assistance, who would utilize their hair cutting tools to extract teeth, lance boils and practice blood-letting.

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The Industrial Revolution

Due to the filth and germs that most people worked in during the Industrial Revolution, the treatment and prevention of disease was a high priority. This time saw the invention of the x-ray machine, as well as provided the groundwork for today’s modern vaccinations. Typhoid and Cholera were the two main outbreaks of this time, and gave way to the first public health office, known as the Health of Towns Association in Europe. This group distributed information to the public regarding health issues and lobbied the government to improve sanitation. In 1860 the first hospital was opened that relied on not only cleanliness as a way to heal disease, but also on compassion from doctors and staff for the patients, completely changing the standard hospitals which were often dirty and focused more on treatment than the patients health or well being. The move towards sanitation and proper nutrition resulted in a great improvement in public health by the end of the Industrial Revolution.

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The Modern World

The improvements in chemistry and the discovery of bacteria and viruses gave way to modern medicine in the 19th century. Several discoveries played a factor in medicine during this period, beginning with the discovery in 1847 that a doctor or surgeon simply washing their hands before delivering a child or performing surgery greatly increased the likelihood of survival in the patient. Charles Darwin laid the groundwork for genetic research in 1865, and the late 1800s gave way to the process of surgical sterilization. While the late 1800s and early 1900s saw a great decline in epidemics, this was due more to the fact that sanitation and personal hygiene were improving as opposed to actual medical advancements.

Doctors first recognized mental health issues by the construction of lunatic asylums, with lobotomies being the standard treatment for many mental health issues up to 1970. With the onslaught of new technology and medical advancements, many people began to turn back to herbal medicines and practices, such as acupuncture and meditation, as a treatment for illness, citing fears of chemicals used in drugs and invasive surgeries. In 1902, the United States opened the first Public Health office, which quickly became a staple of nearly every town and city.

The advancement of chemistry resulted in today’s modern pharmaceutical companies, as well as government funded research programs and the Food and Drug Administration that overseas public health issues related to medical products and agriculture. Vaccinations against almost every major disease, such as polio, measles, and even chicken pox, occurred in modern times, and have increased the life expectancy of humans by almost ten years, and considerably lowered the rate of childhood death due to illnesses.

• Center for Disease Control: Provides current information regarding vaccines and immunizations in modern medicine.
• Food and Drug Administration: Detailed information on current drugs on the market and those that are pending approval.

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If you enjoy helping others, have great people skills, and want to interact with others every day, then a career as a pharmacy technician might be for you. Being a pharmacy technician is a truly rewarding occupation, but with so many tidbits of information to gather, where do you turn?

Luckily, we have gathered all of the information that you will need to get your career started right here. At PharmacyTechnician.net, we give you all the education and career advice you’ll need. So, if becoming a pharmacy technician sounds appealing to you, then check out our site and get started.

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