Training for a Career in Pharmacy

Career opportunities in the medical field are growing faster than any other field. There are many available opportunities working in a pharmacy setting. Training programs are widely available for both pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Training programs vary in length and cost, but provide the pathway to a rewarding career.

Career opportunities in the medical field are growing faster than any other field. There are many available opportunities working in a pharmacy setting. Training programs are widely available for both pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Training programs vary in length and cost, but provide the pathway to a rewarding career.

Pharmacy Technician. Training for pharmacy-technician.asp"> pharmacy technicians involves a comprehensive diploma program that takes about one year to complete. Training programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, and are offered at community colleges and hospitals. Students take course work in pharmacy laws, billing, and calculations, as well as medical terminology and computer science. Training programs also consist of an intensive internship program to prepare students for work in a pharmacy. Upon completion of a training program, students are eligible for the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), provided they successfully pass examination administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

In a given work day, CHPT perform a variety of duties to assist the pharmacists and the daily operations of the pharmacy. CHPT prepare medical prescriptions by measuring, counting, and labeling prescriptions. They also perform administrative duties including managing medical and insurance records and delivering medications and healthcare products to patients, under the direct supervision of a pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians work in variety of healthcare facilities. Training and certification is not always required, but is preferred by most employers, and makes the employee more competitive for jobs and wages.

Pharmacist:
Training for a pharmacist takes considerably longer than that for a technician, but it is a much more complex position. Pharmacists must complete the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) advanced level degree program. Entrance into a PharmD program requires college education in a science related field and an acceptable score on the PCAT-Pharmacy College Admissions Test. A PharmD program prepares a pharmacist with advanced training in extensive medical knowledge, including pharmaceutical practice, patient care, and drug therapy. To become certified, Pharmacists must complete a one year internship and successfully pass the NAPLEX-North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination. Pharmacists may also complete residencies to become further specialized in the field of pharmacy. Some specialties include nuclear pharmacy, pharmacotherapy, and psychiatric pharmacy.

Pharmacists perform a variety of duties and have direct healthcare responsibilities to patients. Pharmacists assist patients with healthcare questions and problems, develop medication schedules, and monitor and evaluate treatments. A pharmacist's extensive knowledge of pharmacy and patient care helps them to serve as liaison between physicians and patients.

Job opportunities in pharmacy positions are very abundant, and there are several advantages to a career in the field. Earnings for pharmacy professionals are very competitive. Training for tech positions is relatively short, while PharmD training provides the professional development for a challenging career.

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About the Author
Angela Oliver is a contributing writer for Healthcare-TrainingCenter.com, a site offering free information for healthcare training and job opportunities. Please visit the site for more information about training for a career in a pharmacy.