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How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In District of Columbia

To become a pharmacy technician in the District of Columbia, follow these steps:

  1. Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Background Check: Complete a criminal background check.
  3. Certification: While not required, PTCB certification is recommended for better job prospects.
  4. Application: Register with the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy and pay the application fee.
  5. Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety.

The District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in the District of Columbia. Technicians are encouraged to complete a PTCB training course. Once approved, they must wear a tag identifying their role in the pharmacy.

To prepare for the PTCB exam and obtain a pharmacy tech license, candidates must register with the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy, pay the application fee, and submit the necessary documents.

Due to high competition, candidates are encouraged to apply promptly to meet the growing demand in this profession.

Number of Pharmacy Technicians

  • Total: Data not specified.

Minimum Age Requirement

  • Candidates must be at least 18 years old.

Education Requirements

  • A high school diploma or GED is required.

Certification Requirements

  • PTCB certification is not required to practice in the District of Columbia but is recommended for better employment opportunities.

Background Checks

  • Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check.

Registration and Licensing

  • No, registration with the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy is not required.
  • It is recommended that candidates pursue PTCB certification to enhance their employability.

Continuing Education Requirements

  • 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years.
  • 1 hour must be in pharmacy law.
  • 1 hour must be in patient safety.
  • PTCB continuous education fee: $40 every two years.

Technician Representation on Board

  • No, Pharmacy Technicians do not have representation on the District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy.

Average Salary

  • $22.07/hr

Job Outlook and Opportunities

Growing Demand The demand for pharmacy technicians in the District of Columbia is increasing due to expanding healthcare services and the aging population.

Employment Settings Pharmacy technicians in DC can find employment in:

  • Retail pharmacies
  • Hospitals and clinics
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Specialty pharmacies
  • Mail-order pharmacy services

Career Advancement Opportunities for career growth include:

  • Additional certifications (e.g., sterile compounding)
  • Specializations in areas like oncology or pediatrics
  • Supervisory or training roles
  • Pursuing further education to become a pharmacist

Salary Expectations The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in DC is approximately $22.07, and with experience and certifications, earnings can be higher.

Professional Resources

  • District of Columbia Board of Pharmacy: Provides licensing, regulations, and continuing education information.
  • National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA): Offers professional development and networking resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the basic requirements to become a pharmacy technician in the District of Columbia?

  • You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a criminal background check.

Is certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in DC?

  • PTCB certification is recommended but not required.

How do I renew my pharmacy technician license?

  • Renewal requires completing 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety, and paying the renewal fee.

What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in DC?

  • The demand is growing, providing numerous job opportunities.

Where can I work as a pharmacy technician in DC?

  • Opportunities exist in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacy services.

Can I advance my career as a pharmacy technician?

  • Yes, by obtaining additional certifications, specializing, taking on supervisory roles, or furthering education to become a pharmacist.

What is the average salary for pharmacy technicians in DC?

  • The average salary is $22.07 per hour, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and additional certifications.
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