Pharmacy TechnicianMilan Topalov, Pharm.D. Staff PharmacistNew York Presbyterian Hospital Columbia and Cornell

Pharmacy Technician

Entry Level Titles: Pharmacy Associate, Pharmacy Technician

Definition: supports the pharmacist in the physical day to day activities of the pharmacy

Responsibilities: 1.Obtain patient/customer related information2. Measure amounts of medication for prescriptions3. Package and label prescriptions4. Inventory Management5. Payment processing and insurance claims6. Pharmacy Informatics7. Answer phone calls from customers8. Arrange for customers to speak with pharmacists if customers have questions about medications or health matters

Entry Level Salary: $25,000-$40,000

Entry Level Description

Pharmacy Technician

Hospitals and Healthcare facilities (Nursing Homes)

Retail Pharmacies (Chain Stores and Independent)

Insurance Companies. Laision between providers and patients

Nuclear Pharmacies Record keeping of nuclear regulatory commission

documentation Storage, receiving and shipping of radiopharmeuticals (Iodine

125, Thallium 201)

Career Environment

Job growth in the field is expected to increase 20% increase between 2012 and 2022, much faster than the average occupation*

Pharmacists are becoming increasingly involved in direct patient care such as Medical Therapy Management, giving flu shots, and inpatient rounding in hospitals

Pharmacy Technicians are filling the void in the technical operation of the pharmacy

* U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Pharmacy Technician

Employment Potential

Pharmacy Technician

Strong problem solving skills/ computer skills

Ability to work with pharmacists, doctors, and other healthcare professionals

Some general mathematical skill and ability to do dose calculations

The ability to work in a fast paced and high pressure environment

Basic knowledge of the medical industry and medical terminology

Knowledge of key drug classes

Minimum requirements- High school diploma/GED Some states now require certification as a Pharmacy

Technician Many employers prefer certified technicians

Requirements