**Online Pharmacy Tech School: What You Need to Know**
Are you interested in a career in pharmacy? If so, you may want to consider enrolling in an online pharmacy tech school. Pharmacy technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and interacting with patients. They play a vital role in the healthcare system, and there is a high demand for their skills.
There are many different online pharmacy tech schools to choose from, so it’s important to do your research and find one that is accredited and reputable. The program you choose should offer a curriculum that is comprehensive and prepares you for the pharmacy technician certification exam.
Once you have chosen an online pharmacy tech school, you will need to complete the program’s coursework and pass the certification exam. The exam is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and it covers a variety of topics, such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and patient safety.
If you pass the exam, you will be eligible to become a registered pharmacy technician (RPT). RPTs are in high demand, and they can find jobs in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.
**Benefits of Online Pharmacy Tech School**
There are many benefits to enrolling in an online pharmacy tech school. First, online programs are more flexible than traditional brick-and-mortar schools. This means that you can complete your coursework on your own time and at your own pace. Second, online programs are often more affordable than traditional programs. This is because you do not have to pay for transportation or parking. Third, online programs offer a variety of resources and support services, such as online tutoring and live chat with instructors.
**How to Choose an Online Pharmacy Tech School**
When choosing an online pharmacy tech school, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the school is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Second, consider the school’s curriculum and make sure it covers all of the topics you need to know to pass the PTCB exam. Third, read reviews of the school and talk to current students to get their feedback.
**Online Pharmacy Tech School Programs**
There are many different online pharmacy tech school programs to choose from. The length of the program will vary, but most programs take around two years to complete. The curriculum will cover topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law, and patient safety. Some programs also offer specializations, such as compounding or nuclear pharmacy.
**Cost of Online Pharmacy Tech School**
The cost of online pharmacy tech school will vary, but most programs cost around $10,000. The cost of the program can be paid for out-of-pocket, with financial aid, or through scholarships.
**Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians**
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is very good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for pharmacy technicians will grow by 12% over the next decade. This growth is due to the increasing number of elderly people, who are more likely to use prescription medications.
**Salary for Pharmacy Technicians**
The median salary for pharmacy technicians is $33,150 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the employer, the location, and the level of experience.
**FAQ**
**What is the difference between a pharmacy technician and a pharmacist?**
A pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who assists pharmacists with a variety of tasks, such as preparing and dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and interacting with patients. Pharmacists are licensed healthcare professionals who are responsible for dispensing medications, providing patient counseling, and monitoring patient drug therapy.
**What are the requirements to become a pharmacy technician?**
To become a pharmacy technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also complete a pharmacy technician program that is accredited by the ACPE. Once you have completed the program, you must pass the PTCB exam.
**How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician?**
It takes around two years to become a pharmacy technician. This includes the time it takes to complete the pharmacy technician program and pass the PTCB exam.
**What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians?**
The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is very good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for pharmacy technicians will grow by 12% over the next decade.
**What is the salary for pharmacy technicians?**
The median salary for pharmacy technicians is $33,150 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the employer, the location, and the level of experience.
**How do I choose an online pharmacy tech school?**
When choosing an online pharmacy tech school, there are a few things you should