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what are some skills I should be familiar with?
Pharmacy Technician
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4 answers
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Heather’s Answer
You would want to have strong math and language skills. Otherwise, you can receive on the job training at most retail pharmacies. Stop by any pharmacy and ask the technicians how they like their jobs. They will tell you. Also, if you will be in a people facing position, it helps to enjoy communicating with others.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Liz
Updated
Nivaj’s Answer
You do get on the job training at most retail pharmacies. Some of the most important skills you learn along the way is maneuvering their software pharmacy system. Calculations on the top of your head is also useful, it’s a quick and fast paced environment, and you want to make sure you know how to do this stuff to be most time-effective. Multi-tasking is helpful because especially in high volume stores, you will rarely ever be at one station the entire day, most likely moving around according to patient needs, and to best optimize the workflow in the pharmacy. Being able to transition between one station to the next is really critical. And lastly I would say being able to communicate with patients in a professional but empathetic way. In retail, sometimes they get frustrated because they want their medicine, you really have to be able to avert altercations and learn to understand their situation and speak to them in such a way that they know everything your doing is to be able to help them. Being sociable is a big plus, patients are more willing to understand pharmacy circumstances when speaking to someone who is confident in what they do, but this again comes with time!
Nivaj, thank you!
Liz
Updated
Shelly’s Answer
The first thing I would say, is to research all the different types of job opportunities there are for pharmacy technicians and decide which field you aim to work in. Math skills, reading comprehension (drug information/drug names), communication skills, problem solving and organization are all tools you will use no matter which type of pharmacy you choose to work in. I've worked in retail, hospital pharmacy and clinical research pharmacy, and if you are someone who gets bored easily, does not like working in small spaces, or are uncomfortable speaking to strangers, then I would not recommend retail pharmacy. Hospital pharmacy by far, is where I feel I learned the most. There are many different areas of training, so I encourage you to dip your toes in and get as much experience as you can. There's a lot to learn in the realm of pharmacy. Take advantage of free educational resources and continuing education programs. Don't get stuck in the "only a pharm tech, not a pharmacist". Maximize on the opportunities and your potential!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Liz
Updated
Ysamar’s Answer
Some key skills for a pharmacy technician include:
1. Attention to Detail: Ensuring prescriptions are filled accurately and that the correct medication and dosage are provided is crucial. Attention to detail also extends to maintaining accurate records and following specific instructions.
2. Interpersonal Skills: Pharmacy technicians interact with customers, patients, and healthcare professionals daily. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for providing excellent customer service, addressing inquiries, and working effectively in a team environment.
3. Computer Skills: Be comfortable using computer systems for prescription processing and inventory management.
In my opinion, these three skills are essential for a pharmacy technician. Everything else can be learned through education or hands on training.
1. Attention to Detail: Ensuring prescriptions are filled accurately and that the correct medication and dosage are provided is crucial. Attention to detail also extends to maintaining accurate records and following specific instructions.
2. Interpersonal Skills: Pharmacy technicians interact with customers, patients, and healthcare professionals daily. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for providing excellent customer service, addressing inquiries, and working effectively in a team environment.
3. Computer Skills: Be comfortable using computer systems for prescription processing and inventory management.
In my opinion, these three skills are essential for a pharmacy technician. Everything else can be learned through education or hands on training.