WHAT IS AN outpatient pharmacy technician jobs
Outpatient pharmacy technician jobs are positions within the healthcare industry that involve assisting pharmacists in providing medications and pharmaceutical services to patients in an outpatient setting. Unlike inpatient pharmacy technicians who work in hospitals or other healthcare facilities, outpatient pharmacy technicians primarily work in retail pharmacies or outpatient clinics. Their main responsibility is to support the pharmacist in dispensing medications, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service to patients.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In an outpatient pharmacy technician role, there are several tasks and responsibilities that are typically performed. These include:
1. Medication Dispensing: Outpatient pharmacy technicians are responsible for accurately dispensing prescription medications to patients. They must carefully follow the instructions provided by the pharmacist, ensuring that the correct medication, dosage, and quantity are provided to each patient.
2. Prescription Processing: Pharmacy technicians receive and process prescription orders from patients, doctors, or other healthcare providers. They review the prescriptions for completeness and accuracy, enter the information into the pharmacy's computer system, and prepare the medication for dispensing.
3. Inventory Management: Maintaining an appropriate inventory of medications and supplies is crucial in a pharmacy setting. Outpatient pharmacy technicians play a vital role in monitoring and managing the inventory, ensuring that medications are properly stocked, and expired medications are removed from circulation.
4. Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service is an essential aspect of an outpatient pharmacy technician's role. They assist patients with questions about their medications, provide information on dosage instructions and potential side effects, and address any concerns or issues that patients may have.
5. Insurance and Billing: Outpatient pharmacy technicians may also be involved in processing insurance claims and billing for medications. They verify insurance coverage, communicate with insurance companies to resolve any issues, and ensure that patients are billed accurately and efficiently.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in an outpatient pharmacy technician position, certain skills are highly valued. Here are the top five skills for this role:
1. Attention to Detail: Accuracy is crucial when dispensing medications and managing inventory. Outpatient pharmacy technicians must have a keen eye for detail to ensure the right medication and dosage are provided to each patient.
2. Strong Organizational Skills: With multiple prescriptions to process and inventory to manage, being organized is essential. Outpatient pharmacy technicians need to prioritize tasks, maintain proper documentation, and keep track of various medications and supplies.
3. Excellent Communication Skills: Effective communication is vital when interacting with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Outpatient pharmacy technicians must be able to explain medication instructions clearly, listen attentively to patients' concerns, and collaborate effectively within a team.
4. Knowledge of Pharmaceutical Terminology: Understanding pharmaceutical terminology is crucial in an outpatient pharmacy technician role. Familiarity with drug names, dosage forms, and common abbreviations helps ensure accurate medication dispensing and effective communication with healthcare professionals.
5. Customer Service Orientation: Providing exceptional customer service is a key aspect of this position. Outpatient pharmacy technicians must be friendly, empathetic, and patient-focused. They should be able to address patient concerns, answer questions, and provide information in a professional and compassionate manner.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
Becoming an outpatient pharmacy technician typically requires a combination of education and practical experience. Here are the general steps to pursue this career path:
1. Education: Most employers prefer pharmacy technicians to have a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal education is not always mandatory, completing a pharmacy technician training program or obtaining a certificate from an accredited institution can enhance job prospects. These programs provide comprehensive knowledge of pharmaceutical calculations, medication terminology, and pharmacy operations.
2. Certification: Although certification is not always required, obtaining certification as a pharmacy technician can demonstrate competence and dedication to the field. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential, which requires passing an exam.
3. On-the-Job Training: Many outpatient pharmacies provide on-the-job training for newly hired pharmacy technicians. During this training period, technicians learn about specific pharmacy software systems, practice medication dispensing techniques, and familiarize themselves with inventory management processes.
4. State Licensure: Some states require pharmacy technicians to obtain licensure or registration. The requirements vary by state and may include passing an exam or completing continuing education credits. It is important to research and comply with the specific regulations in the state where you intend to practice.
5. Continuing Education: To stay current with advancements in the field and maintain their certification, outpatient pharmacy technicians often pursue continuing education opportunities. These may include attending workshops, conferences, or online courses that cover topics such as new medications, pharmacy regulations, and patient safety.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for outpatient pharmacy technicians can vary depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and the specific employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians, including those working in outpatient settings, was $34,020. The lowest 10% earned less than $25,620, while the highest 10% earned more than $49,130.
It is important to note that these figures are general estimates and may differ based on the factors mentioned earlier. Additionally, salaries may be influenced by the demand for outpatient pharmacy technicians in a particular area.
ROLES AND TYPES
Outpatient pharmacy technicians can work in various settings, each with its own unique roles and responsibilities. Some common types of outpatient pharmacy technician jobs include:
1. Retail Pharmacies: The majority of outpatient pharmacy technicians are employed in retail pharmacies, such as chain drug stores or independent pharmacies. In these settings, they assist pharmacists in dispensing medications, providing patient counseling, and managing inventory.
2. Outpatient Clinics: Some outpatient clinics, particularly those associated with hospitals or healthcare systems, have their own pharmacies. Outpatient pharmacy technicians in these clinics work closely with healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the prescribed medications and provide clinical support as needed.
3. Mail-Order Pharmacies: Mail-order pharmacies specialize in delivering medications to patients via mail or courier services. Outpatient pharmacy technicians in this setting focus on accurately processing and packaging prescription orders, as well as coordinating with shipping services to ensure timely delivery.
4. Specialty Pharmacies: Specialty pharmacies cater to patients with complex or chronic conditions, requiring specialized medications and therapies. Outpatient pharmacy technicians in specialty pharmacies often have additional training and expertise to handle these unique medications and provide specialized patient support.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Outpatient pharmacy technician jobs can be found throughout the United States, but certain locations have a higher demand for these professionals. Some of the top locations with the most popular jobs in the USA include:
1. California: With a large population and extensive healthcare network, California offers numerous job opportunities for outpatient pharmacy technicians. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have a high concentration of pharmacies and outpatient clinics.
2. Texas: Texas is another state with a high demand for healthcare professionals, including outpatient pharmacy technicians. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin have a significant number of retail pharmacies and healthcare facilities.
3. Florida: Known for its retirement communities and tourism industry, Florida has a thriving healthcare sector. Cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have a strong demand for outpatient pharmacy technicians to meet the medication needs of the population.
4. New York: In New York, the metropolitan areas of New York City and its surrounding boroughs have a large number of pharmacies and outpatient clinics. This urban environment provides ample job opportunities for outpatient pharmacy technicians.
5. Illinois: Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, offers numerous job opportunities for outpatient pharmacy technicians. With its diverse population and extensive healthcare infrastructure, there is a constant need for pharmacy professionals in this area.
These locations are just a few examples, and outpatient pharmacy technician jobs can be found in various cities and states across the country.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Outpatient pharmacy technicians utilize various tools and technologies to perform their duties efficiently. Some of the typical tools and equipment used in this role include:
1. Pharmacy Software Systems: Outpatient pharmacies rely on computerized systems to process prescriptions, manage inventory, and maintain patient records. Pharmacy technicians use these software systems to enter and retrieve information, track medication orders, and generate reports.
2. Prescription Dispensing Systems: Automated prescription dispensing systems, such as pill counting machines, barcode scanners, and label printers, are commonly used in outpatient pharmacies. These tools help streamline the medication dispensing process and ensure accuracy.
3. Measuring Devices: Outpatient pharmacy technicians use measuring devices, such as graduated cylinders, syringes, and measuring spoons, to accurately measure and dispense liquid medications or create customized dosage forms.
4. Compounding Equipment: In some outpatient pharmacies, pharmacy technicians may be involved in medication compounding, where they prepare customized medications. Compounding equipment, such as mortar and pestle, ointment mills, and electronic balances, are used for this purpose.
5. Communication Devices: To communicate effectively with patients, healthcare professionals, and insurance companies, outpatient pharmacy technicians utilize various communication devices, including telephones, fax machines, and email systems.
It is important for outpatient pharmacy technicians to be familiar with these tools and technologies to perform their job responsibilities effectively and efficiently.
IN CONCLUSION
Outpatient pharmacy technician jobs offer rewarding career opportunities for individuals interested in the healthcare industry. These professionals play a vital role in ensuring accurate medication dispensing, providing excellent customer service, and supporting the overall functioning of outpatient pharmacies. With the right skills, education, and experience, aspiring pharmacy technicians can embark on a fulfilling career in this field. Whether working in retail pharmacies, outpatient clinics, or specialty pharmacies, outpatient pharmacy technicians contribute to the well-being of patients and the healthcare system as a whole.