How to become a certified pharmacy technician in Boston

To become a certified pharmacy technician in Boston, there are a few steps that you need to follow. First, you need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, you need to enroll in a pharmacy technician training program that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and online.

After completing the training program, you need to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). These exams are administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), respectively. The exams cover topics such as medication safety, pharmacy law and regulations, and drug interactions.

Once you pass the exam, you can apply for certification with the PTCB or NHA. Certification is not required to work as a pharmacy technician in Massachusetts, but it can increase your job opportunities and earning potential. To maintain your certification, you need to complete continuing education courses and renew your certification every two years.

In addition to completing the necessary education and certification requirements, it is important to have strong communication and customer service skills, as pharmacy technicians often interact with patients and healthcare professionals. Attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important qualities for a successful pharmacy technician.