How to Become a Pharmacy Technician in New York
A pharmacy technician in New York helps pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most people don’t know or understand how to become a pharmacy technician in New York or what it involves. There are several boxes you need to check off before you can get behind the counter. Understanding the steps and the full scope of the position gives you the opportunity to quickly enter this field. Opportunities are growing fast and potential candidates should understand the positive nature of healthcare positions. Educating yourself on the topics involved is where you should start.
Education and Learning
To become a pharmacy technician in new york, you need a little schooling before you can get going. Pharmacy technicians usually need a high school diploma or GED for the position and learn their responsibilities on the job. Even though this is true, you should seek out a ASHP program for pharmacy technicians. Most of these certificate programs are completed within one year or even sooner. Associate degree program can typically take two years to complete. Most people will go for the certifications instead of an associate’s degree because it can be completed in a shorter period of time.
Certification & Licenses in New York State
The PTCB certification is a standard certification that you can complete. The board requires that you have a high school diploma or GED, comply with all applicable Pharmacy Technician Certification Board policies, and a passing score on the exam. You can either get certified by the PTCB or the NHA. Both are credible organizations that provide testing. In New York, testing for certification is all that is required by employers. It is really important that once you receive your certification that you maintain it every two years. Not only does retaking the certification exam help you brush up on your skills, but it gives you a chance to see what new material has been added. Once you have taken the exam and passed, you are ready to look for positions.
Finding Positions
A pharmacy technician in New York gets hired by local pharmacies and staffing agencies specializing in healthcare. Horizon Staffing Solutions has many positions open in New York, including Nassau and Suffolk County. The positions are posted on the staffing agency’s website as well as job boards such as Indeed and LinkedIn. Many of the job board websites require a resume to be added to any job application. If you do not yet have a resume, a recruiter from the staffing agency can assist you to get you where you need to be. Recruiters will have plenty of positions available and can review the job outlook for the next year.
Job Outlook
The job growth for pharmacy technicians is growing faster than average according the BLS. The amount of positions is expected to grow with the increase in volume for the healthcare industry. Being in this position not only gives you experience to work in a pharmacy, but it also prepares you if you were to continue to pursue a career in the medical field.
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