5 Ways To Get Free Pharmacy Tech Training

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Are you interested in starting a career as a pharmacy technician but don't know where to begin? Getting the necessary training and certification can be costly, but there are ways to obtain free pharmacy tech training. In this article, we'll explore five ways to get started on your path to becoming a pharmacy technician without breaking the bank.

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. With the increasing 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.

What is Pharmacy Tech Training?

Pharmacy tech training programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field. These programs typically cover topics such as:

• Pharmacy law and ethics
• Pharmacology
• Pharmacy operations
• Medication safety
• Customer service

Most pharmacy tech training programs are offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions and can be completed in a few months to a year. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the certification exam to become a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT).

Free Pharmacy Tech Training Options

While many pharmacy tech training programs come with a cost, there are ways to obtain free training. Here are five options to consider:

1. Pharmacy Technician Training Programs Offered by Pharmacies

Some pharmacies offer free training programs for aspiring pharmacy technicians. These programs are usually designed to train individuals to work in their specific pharmacy, but they can also provide a foundation for a career in the field. Some examples of pharmacies that offer free training programs include:

• CVS Pharmacy
• Walgreens
• Rite Aid

These programs are usually a combination of online coursework and on-the-job training. Students learn about pharmacy operations, medication safety, and customer service, and they gain hands-on experience working in a pharmacy.

2. Government Assistance Programs

The government offers various assistance programs to help individuals obtain the training they need to start a new career. Some examples include:

• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

These programs provide financial assistance to individuals who are low-income, unemployed, or have a disability. Eligible individuals can use these funds to pay for pharmacy tech training programs.

3. Online Courses and Resources

There are many online courses and resources available that can provide free pharmacy tech training. Some examples include:

• Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) online courses
• American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) online courses
• Pharmacy technician training videos on YouTube

These resources can provide a foundation for pharmacy tech training, but they may not be sufficient to prepare for the certification exam.

4. Volunteer Work

Volunteering at a pharmacy or healthcare organization can provide valuable experience and training. Many pharmacies and healthcare organizations offer volunteer programs that allow individuals to gain hands-on experience working in a pharmacy. This can be a great way to learn about pharmacy operations and gain experience working with patients.

5. Pharmacy Technician Scholarships

There are many scholarships available to individuals who are interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician. Some examples include:

• PTCB Scholarship
• ASHP Scholarship
• National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Scholarship

These scholarships can provide financial assistance to individuals who are pursuing pharmacy tech training programs.

Benefits of Free Pharmacy Tech Training

Obtaining free pharmacy tech training can have numerous benefits, including:

• Cost savings: Free training programs can save individuals thousands of dollars in tuition costs.
• Increased job prospects: Having a certification in pharmacy technology can increase job prospects and open up more career opportunities.
• Improved job satisfaction: Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare industry, and having a certification can lead to increased job satisfaction.

Conclusion

Getting started as a pharmacy technician can be challenging, but there are ways to obtain free training. Whether it's through a pharmacy's training program, government assistance, online courses, volunteer work, or scholarships, there are many options available. By taking advantage of these opportunities, individuals can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this field and start a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician.