The rate of prescription medication use continues to rise in the United States. The increase can be attributed to multiple factors including a growing elderly population and advancements in drug research. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 88.4 percent of the population ages 60 or older uses at least one prescription medication. The U.S. Bureau of Census estimates the elderly population will increase by 20.4 percent by the year 2050. Pharmacy technician employment is expected to rise to meet the increased burden on pharmacies and the healthcare system.

Pharmacy Technicians

Technicians are widely used in both community and hospital pharmacies to assist the pharmacists with processing and distributing medications. Responsibilities may include but not limited to filling, compounding, order entry, packaging, and ordering. Patient interaction is frequent and technicians should also possess good communication skills.

Certification

Certification demonstrates that individuals are qualified to perform the duties and obligations of the profession. It validates the technician’s credentials and instills confidence in the general public towards the pharmacy staff who handle their medications. The following are examples of benefits that can be obtained through pharmacy technician certification: