A Pharmacy Technician assists pharmacists in dispensing prescription medication to customers or health professionals. They work in pharmacies, including those in hospitals and retail settings, under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacy Technicians are responsible for ensuring that the correct medication is provided, accurate dosages are dispensed, and that the needs of patients and healthcare providers are met efficiently.

Responsibilities:

• Receive and process prescription orders from patients or healthcare providers
• Accurately measure, count, and package prescription medications
• Label medications and ensure all information (patient details, dosage, instructions) is correct
• Assist pharmacists in managing inventory, ordering medications, and restocking shelves
• Provide excellent customer service, answering patient questions and concerns related to prescriptions
• Process insurance claims and verify patient eligibility for prescribed medications
• Maintain patient confidentiality and protect sensitive health information
• Prepare sterile compounds or IV solutions (under the supervision of a pharmacist)
• Manage medication storage and handling according to legal and safety requirements
• Organize and maintain the pharmacy’s workspace, ensuring it is clean and organized
• Inform pharmacists about shortages of medication or equipment
• Assist in pharmacy billing and processing of payments for prescriptions
• Keep accurate records of prescriptions, patient files, and inventory
• Work with pharmacists to ensure medication safety and the absence of drug interactions
• Adhere to all regulatory standards, including those set by the FDA, DEA, and other governing bodies
• Assist in special projects, such as developing patient education materials or medication adherence programs

Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent (some states may require certification or a diploma in pharmacy technology)
• Certification as a Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or a similar certifying body may be required depending on state regulations
• Experience in a retail or hospital pharmacy setting is a plus
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to follow procedures and guidelines accurately
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment and handle high-pressure situations calmly
• Proficiency in using pharmacy software systems and technology for record-keeping and inventory management
• Basic understanding of medical terminology, pharmaceutical measurements, and drug interactions
• Knowledge of pharmacy law and the regulations governing prescription drugs
• Strong organizational skills, with an ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently
• Dependable, ethical, and focused on delivering quality service to patients
• Ability to work as part of a team under the supervision of a pharmacist

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with insurance claim processing and third-party billing procedures
• Experience preparing and handling sterile compounds
• Bilingual communication skills (depending on the community served)

Work Environment:

• Pharmacies in retail settings (e.g., drug stores, grocery stores) or hospital pharmacy departments
• Primarily involves standing for long periods and occasional lifting of boxes containing medications
• Fast-paced environment with direct interaction with customers and healthcare providers