5 Steps To Get Nys Pharmacy Tech License

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The healthcare industry is rapidly growing, and pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the smooth operation of pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. In New York State, pharmacy technicians are in high demand, and obtaining a license can open up numerous job opportunities. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician in New York, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get licensed.

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is responsible for issuing licenses to pharmacy technicians. To become a licensed pharmacy technician in New York, you'll need to meet the eligibility requirements, complete the necessary education and training, and pass a certification exam. Here's a detailed overview of the 5 steps to get your NYS pharmacy tech license.

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a pharmacy technician license in New York, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be a U.S. citizen or have a valid visa
• Have a valid Social Security number

Step 2: Complete a Pharmacy Technician Training Program

The NYSED requires pharmacy technician applicants to complete a training program approved by the Accreditation Commission for Health Education (ACHE) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These programs typically include both classroom and clinical training and cover topics such as:

• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmacology and pharmaceutical calculations
• Pharmacy operations and management
• Patient communication and counseling

Some popular pharmacy technician training programs in New York include:

• The New York State Council of Health-system Pharmacists (NYSCHP) Pharmacy Technician Training Program
• The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Pharmacy Technician Training Program
• The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Pharmacy Technician Training Program

Types of Pharmacy Technician Training Programs

Pharmacy technician training programs can be completed in various formats, including:

• On-campus programs: These programs are offered at colleges, universities, or vocational schools and typically take 6-12 months to complete.
• Online programs: These programs are offered online and can be completed at your own pace.
• Hybrid programs: These programs combine online and on-campus training.
• Certificate programs: These programs are designed for individuals who already have a degree in a related field and want to gain specialized training as a pharmacy technician.

Step 3: Pass a Certification Exam

After completing a pharmacy technician training program, you'll need to pass a certification exam to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. The most widely recognized certification exam for pharmacy technicians is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

The PTCE exam covers topics such as:

• Pharmacology and pharmaceutical calculations
• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmacy operations and management
• Patient communication and counseling

To register for the PTCE exam, you'll need to create an account on the PTCB website and pay the exam fee.

Step 4: Apply for a Pharmacy Technician License

Once you've passed the PTCE exam, you can apply for a pharmacy technician license through the NYSED Office of the Professions. You'll need to submit the following:

• A completed application form
• Official transcripts from your pharmacy technician training program
• Proof of passing the PTCE exam
• A fee for the license application

You can submit your application online or by mail.

Step 5: Maintain Your License

To maintain your pharmacy technician license in New York, you'll need to complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the NYSED's code of ethics.

• Continuing education requirements: You'll need to complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years to maintain your license.
• Code of ethics: You'll need to adhere to the NYSED's code of ethics, which includes standards for professional conduct, patient confidentiality, and pharmacy operations.

By following these 5 steps, you can obtain your NYS pharmacy tech license and start a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.

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