Stepping Up: 4 Ways to Advance Your Career as a Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, ensuring the safe and efficient dispensing of medications and supporting pharmacists in various pharmacy settings. While entry-level positions provide a solid foundation, many pharmacy technicians aspire to advance their careers and take on roles with increased responsibilities and opportunities for growth. Here are four strategies to propel your career forward as a pharmacy technician.

1. Pursue Advanced Education and Certification: Investing in additional education and certification is a surefire way to stand out in the competitive landscape of pharmacy technician roles. Consider enrolling in advanced training programs or pursuing a degree in pharmacy technology or a related field. Additionally, obtaining specialized certifications, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification or the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, demonstrates your commitment to excellence and proficiency in the field. These certifications not only enhance your knowledge and skills but also expand your career options and earning potential.
2. Seek Opportunities for Specialization: Pharmacy technicians can distinguish themselves by specializing in specific areas of pharmacy practice. Whether it’s compounding medications, managing inventory and supply chains, or specializing in a particular healthcare setting such as hospitals or long-term care facilities, pursuing specialization allows you to develop expertise in niche areas and take on more specialized roles. Keep abreast of industry trends and emerging areas of specialization to capitalize on new opportunities for career advancement.
3. Expand Your Scope of Practice: As healthcare evolves, pharmacy technicians are increasingly taking on expanded roles and responsibilities beyond traditional dispensing duties. Proactively seek opportunities to broaden your scope of practice by participating in additional training programs or pursuing certifications that enable you to perform tasks such as medication therapy management, medication reconciliation, or immunization administration, where permitted by state regulations. By demonstrating competency in advanced clinical and administrative tasks, you position yourself as a valuable asset to your employer and open doors to higher-level positions within the pharmacy profession.
4. Cultivate Leadership and Professional Development: Effective leadership and professional development are essential for advancing your career as a pharmacy technician. Take initiative in seeking out leadership opportunities within your organization, such as serving as a lead technician, participating in quality improvement initiatives, or mentoring new hires. Additionally, invest in ongoing professional development through continuing education programs, workshops, and conferences to stay updated on industry best practices, regulatory changes, and advancements in pharmacy technology. Building a strong professional network and seeking mentorship from experienced pharmacists or pharmacy technicians can provide invaluable guidance and support as you navigate your career path.

Advancing your career as a pharmacy technician requires a proactive approach to education, specialization, skill development, and leadership.