In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, the demand for pharmacy technicians is on the rise. As crucial members of the healthcare team, pharmacy technicians play a significant role in ensuring the efficient and safe delivery of medications to patients. Let’s explore why this profession is in such high demand and what opportunities lie ahead for those interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician.
The Increasing Role of Pharmacy Technicians
Pharmacy techs assist pharmacists in various tasks, including preparing medications, managing inventory, and providing customer service. Their role has expanded significantly in recent years due to several factors:
- Growing Healthcare Needs: With an aging population and the prevalence of chronic diseases, the demand for medications and pharmaceutical services is higher than ever. Pharmacy technicians help meet this demand by supporting pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing patient care.
- Advancements in Pharmacy Practice: The scope of practice for pharmacy techs has broadened, allowing them to take on more responsibilities. This includes performing medication reconciliation, administering immunizations, and managing automated dispensing systems.
- Pharmacist Workforce Shortages: In many areas, there is a shortage of pharmacists, leading to increased reliance on pharmacy techs. By taking on more routine tasks, pharmacy techs enable pharmacists to focus on clinical and patient-centered services.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of pharmacy technicians in the healthcare system. During the pandemic, pharmacy technicians have been instrumental in:
- Supporting Vaccination Efforts: Many pharmacy technicians have been trained to administer COVID-19 vaccines, significantly increasing the capacity for vaccination programs.
- Managing Increased Medication Demand: The pandemic has led to higher demand for medications, and pharmacy technicians have been essential in ensuring timely and accurate dispensing.
- Providing Frontline Support: Pharmacy techs have been on the front lines, assisting patients and maintaining essential pharmacy operations during challenging times.
Job Outlook and Career Opportunities
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Several factors contribute to this positive outlook:
- Expanding Healthcare Services: As healthcare services continue to expand, the need for pharmacy technicians in hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies will grow.
- Increased Medication Use: With more people requiring medications for various health conditions, the demand for pharmacy technicians to manage and dispense these medications will rise.
- Technological Advancements: The adoption of advanced pharmacy technologies, such as automated dispensing systems and electronic health records, creates new opportunities for pharmacy technicians to specialize in tech-related roles.
Education and Certification
To meet the growing demand, aspiring pharmacy techs should pursue proper education and certification:
- Education Programs: Many community colleges and technical schools like medical career colleges offer pharmacy technician programs that provide the necessary training and education.
- Certification: Obtaining certification, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), enhances job prospects and demonstrates competence. For example, students can earn their CPhT credential in 8-9 months and a 100-hour clinical externship via Hawai’i Medical College.
The growing demand for pharmacy techs presents a wealth of opportunities for those interested in this vital healthcare role. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, pharmacy techs will remain indispensable in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medications to patients. By pursuing the necessary education and certification, aspiring pharmacy techs can embark on a rewarding and stable career path in this dynamic field.
For more information about pursuing a career as a pharmacy techs and the programs available to help you get there, visit Hawai’i Medical College.
