Pharmacy Tech Careers With A Felony: What You Need

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As a convicted felon, it can be challenging to find a career that aligns with your skills and interests. However, pharmacy technician careers can be a promising option for those who are willing to put in the effort to overcome the obstacles. In this article, we will explore the possibilities of pharmacy tech careers with a felony and provide guidance on how to navigate the challenges.

Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and interacting with patients. With the growing demand for healthcare services, the need for skilled pharmacy technicians is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4% from 2020 to 2030, which is as fast as the average for all occupations.

Benefits of a Pharmacy Technician Career

Before we dive into the specifics of pharmacy tech careers with a felony, let's explore the benefits of this career path. Pharmacy technicians can enjoy a range of advantages, including:

• Competitive salary: Pharmacy technicians can earn a competitive salary, with median hourly earnings ranging from $15 to $25 per hour.
• Job stability: Pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and the job market is expected to grow in the coming years.
• Opportunities for advancement: With experience and additional education, pharmacy technicians can move into leadership roles or pursue specialized certifications.
• Sense of fulfillment: Pharmacy technicians play a critical role in patient care, which can be a source of personal satisfaction and fulfillment.

Challenges of Pharmacy Tech Careers with a Felony

While pharmacy tech careers can be a great option for convicted felons, there are challenges to consider. Some of the obstacles you may face include:

• Background checks: Many pharmacy technician programs and employers require background checks, which can be a barrier for individuals with a felony conviction.
• Certification requirements: Some states require pharmacy technicians to be certified, which can be difficult to obtain with a felony conviction.
• Employer hesitation: Some employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with a felony conviction, especially in a field that involves handling medication and interacting with patients.

Strategies for Overcoming Challenges

While the challenges of pharmacy tech careers with a felony are significant, there are strategies for overcoming them. Here are a few tips to consider:

• Research programs and employers: Look for pharmacy technician programs and employers that have a history of accepting individuals with felony convictions.
• Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize the skills you developed during your incarceration, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Seek out certifications: While some certifications may be difficult to obtain with a felony conviction, others may be more accessible. Consider pursuing certifications that are not state-specific.
• Build a strong support network: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and can provide guidance and encouragement.

Pharmacy Technician Programs for Felons

There are several pharmacy technician programs that cater to individuals with felony convictions. Some of these programs include:

• Online programs: Online pharmacy technician programs can provide flexibility and accessibility for individuals with felony convictions.
• Vocational programs: Vocational programs can provide hands-on training and preparation for pharmacy technician certification.
• Community college programs: Community colleges often offer pharmacy technician programs that are designed to meet the needs of local employers.

Certification Options for Felons

While some certifications may be difficult to obtain with a felony conviction, others may be more accessible. Here are a few certification options to consider:

• Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT): The CPhT certification is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and is recognized nationwide.
• Certified Clinical Pharmacy Technician (CCPhT): The CCPhT certification is also offered by the PTCB and is designed for pharmacy technicians who work in clinical settings.
• State-specific certifications: Some states offer certifications for pharmacy technicians that are specific to that state.

Conclusion

Pharmacy tech careers can be a promising option for individuals with felony convictions. While there are challenges to consider, there are also strategies for overcoming them. By researching programs and employers, highlighting transferable skills, seeking out certifications, and building a strong support network, individuals with felony convictions can pursue a career in pharmacy technology.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you considered a career in pharmacy technology? What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them? Your insights can help inspire and motivate others who are pursuing a similar path.

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