Pharmacy Assistant

What Would I Be Responsible For as a Pharmacy Assistant?
You would be responsible for a range of tasks including receiving, checking, and preparing prescriptions. You will need to verify the information, and may even need to follow up requests if any information is missing. You may weigh, measure, or count the required medication. You might be responsible for the packaging and labeling of the filled prescription. A qualified Pharmacist will generally check your work before dispensing it. You may also check inventory, make orders for supplies and complete records or requests for payment.

What is an Average Day For a Pharmacy Assistant?
If you work in a retail pharmacy, you may receive prescription requests by mail, or electronically. You may fill these requests and arrange for delivery or collection. You might also be responsible for updating records or adding details to billing software for health insurance companies. You may also advise customers on minor ailments or take payment for other goods sold in the shop. If you work in a care home, you may have far more patient interaction and be more involved in the overall well being of the residents. Hours are variable. A major hospital may require you to work on evenings and weekends; a retail store may only be open office hours.

Will I be Better off with a Qualification?
While Pharmacy Assistants do not need any formal training, many pharmacies prefer you to be a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). This is a national certification, which is held several times a year. Some pharmacies will even reimburse your fees. You need to reapply for your certification every two years. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 Edition, Pharmacy Technicians.)

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by state then city.

Vatterott College

[Joplin, MO]

Vatterott College’s innovative, hands-on training helps you build the life you want. Everything we teach has practical, real-world value. Earn your certificate, diploma, or bachelor’s degree in Trade, Technology, Healthcare, Design, or Administrative fields and start your future. Our expert instructors and flexible schedules enable you to get the skills employers demand—fast. When can you start?
Programs:
Pharmacy Assistant
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Vatterott College

[Kansas City, MO]

Vatterott College

[Springfield, MO]

Vatterott College

[Omaha, NE]