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How to become a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland

Learn how to become a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland with our comprehensive guide. Discover the requirements, training options, and certification process to kickstart your career in pharmacy.?

To become a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland, there are a few steps that you need to follow. Firstly, you need to have a Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualification. This is the minimum requirement for entry into a pharmacy technician course. You can also have a relevant qualification in science or healthcare.

Once you have the necessary qualifications, you can enroll in a pharmacy technician course. There are several institutions in Ireland that offer this course, including the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) and the Institute of Technology Carlow. The course usually takes two years to complete and covers topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and dispensing.

After completing the course, you need to register with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI). This is the regulatory body for pharmacy technicians in Ireland. You will need to provide evidence of your qualifications and complete a criminal background check. Once you are registered, you can work as a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland.

To maintain your certification, you need to complete continuing professional development (CPD) activities. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in pharmacy practice. The PSI requires pharmacy technicians to complete a minimum of 15 hours of CPD each year.

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Key skills and competencies

In Ireland, a certified pharmacy technician is required to possess a range of skills and competencies to perform their duties effectively. Firstly, they must have a thorough understanding of pharmaceuticals, including their composition, uses, and potential side effects. They must also be able to accurately read and interpret prescriptions, as well as understand the legal and ethical considerations surrounding the dispensing of medication. 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 highly organized and detail-oriented. They are responsible for maintaining accurate records of medication dispensing, as well as managing inventory and ordering supplies. They must be able to work efficiently and effectively in a fast-paced environment, while also ensuring that all tasks are completed accurately and on time. Finally, certified pharmacy technicians must be committed to ongoing learning and professional development. They must stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of pharmacy, including new medications and changes to regulations and guidelines. This requires a willingness to engage in ongoing training and education, as well as a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

Local salary expectations or estimates

As a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland, you can expect to earn an average salary of €28,000 to €35,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on your level of experience, the location of your workplace, and the type of pharmacy you work in. For example, those working in hospital pharmacies may earn a higher salary than those working in community pharmacies. Additionally, with further experience and training, you may be able to progress to a supervisory or management role, which can lead to higher earnings. Overall, becoming a certified pharmacy technician in Ireland can provide a stable and rewarding career with opportunities for growth and development.

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