5 Steps To Become A Pharmacy Tech At Gtcc

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry, specifically in pharmacy technology? Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) offers a pharmacy technology program that can help you achieve your goals. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to become a pharmacy tech at GTCC.

The demand for pharmacy technicians is increasing due to the growing need for healthcare services. 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. By following these steps, you can start your journey to becoming a pharmacy technician at GTCC.

Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the pharmacy technology program at GTCC, you must meet the admission requirements. These requirements include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Taking the placement tests for reading, English, and math
• Having a minimum GPA of 2.0

You can find more information about the admission requirements on the GTCC website or by contacting the admissions office.

Step 2: Complete the Prerequisite Courses

Before starting the pharmacy technology program, you must complete the prerequisite courses. These courses include:

• Introduction to Pharmacy Technology
• Pharmacy Law and Ethics
• Pharmaceutical Calculations
• Anatomy and Physiology

These courses will provide you with the foundational knowledge you need to succeed in the program.

Pharmacy Law and Ethics

Pharmacy law and ethics is an essential course that will teach you about the laws and regulations governing pharmacy practice. You will learn about the HIPAA laws, patient confidentiality, and the code of ethics for pharmacy technicians.

Step 3: Apply for the Pharmacy Technology Program

Once you have completed the prerequisite courses, you can apply for the pharmacy technology program. The application process typically includes:

• Submitting an application form
• Providing transcripts from previous colleges or universities
• Taking the HESI A2 exam (if required)

You can find more information about the application process on the GTCC website or by contacting the program director.

Step 4: Complete the Pharmacy Technology Program

The pharmacy technology program at GTCC is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a pharmacy technician. The program includes:

• Classroom instruction
• Lab training
• Clinical rotations

You will learn about pharmacy operations, medication safety, and patient care. You will also have the opportunity to practice your skills in a clinical setting.

Pharmacy Operations

Pharmacy operations is a critical course that will teach you about the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy. You will learn about inventory management, billing and insurance, and patient communication.

Step 5: Pass the Certification Exam

After completing the pharmacy technology program, you will be eligible to take the certification exam. The certification exam is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Passing the certification exam will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession. You will also be required to complete continuing education requirements to maintain your certification.

PTCB Certification Exam

The PTCB certification exam is a comprehensive exam that will test your knowledge and skills as a pharmacy technician. You will be tested on topics such as pharmacy law, pharmacology, and patient care.

By following these 5 steps, you can become a pharmacy technician at GTCC. Remember to meet the admission requirements, complete the prerequisite courses, apply for the program, complete the program, and pass the certification exam. With dedication and hard work, you can start your career as a pharmacy technician and make a difference in the lives of patients.