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How to become a certified pharmacy technician in India

Learn how to become a certified pharmacy technician in India via our short guide. Demistify salary, skills, requirements for this career?

To become a certified pharmacy technician in India, one must first complete a diploma or degree in pharmacy from a recognized institution. This is a prerequisite for registration with the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), which is the regulatory body for pharmacy education and practice in the country. Once registered, one can apply for certification as a pharmacy technician.

The certification process involves passing an examination conducted by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These exams test the candidate's knowledge and skills in areas such as medication safety, pharmacy law and ethics, drug classification and dosage forms, and pharmaceutical calculations.

In addition to passing the certification exam, pharmacy technicians must also meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a high school diploma or equivalent, completing a pharmacy technician training program, and having a certain amount of work experience in a pharmacy setting.

Once certified, pharmacy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies. They may also choose to specialize in areas such as compounding, sterile product preparation, or medication therapy management.

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Key skills and competencies

In India, a certified pharmacy technician is required to possess a range of skills and competencies to perform their job effectively. Firstly, they must have a thorough understanding of pharmaceuticals, including their composition, uses, and potential side effects. They must also be able to read and interpret prescriptions accurately, as well as understand the various dosage forms and routes of administration. In addition to their knowledge of pharmaceuticals, certified pharmacy technicians must also possess strong communication skills. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals, both verbally and in writing. This includes being able to explain medication instructions clearly and answer any questions patients may have. Certified pharmacy technicians must also be detail-oriented and have strong organizational skills. They are responsible for maintaining accurate records of medications and inventory, as well as ensuring that medications are stored and dispensed properly. They must also be able to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced environment, often under pressure. Finally, certified pharmacy technicians must adhere to ethical and legal standards in their work. They must maintain patient confidentiality, follow all relevant laws and regulations, and ensure that medications are dispensed only with a valid prescription.

Local salary expectations or estimates

As a certified pharmacy technician in India, you can expect to earn an average salary of around INR 2-3 lakhs per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as your level of experience, the location of your workplace, and the type of pharmacy you work in. In larger cities like Mumbai and Delhi, salaries may be higher due to the higher cost of living. Additionally, working in a hospital or specialty pharmacy may offer higher salaries compared to working in a retail pharmacy. It's important to research and compare different job opportunities to find the best fit for your career goals and financial needs.

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