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How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Hawaii
To become a pharmacy technician in Hawaii, follow these steps:
- Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
- Background Check: Complete a thorough criminal background check.
- Certification: PTCB certification is recommended but not mandatory.
- Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety.
Registration with the Hawaii Board of Pharmacy is not required but can enhance employment opportunities.
The Hawaii Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in Hawaii. 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 Hawaii 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 Hawaii but is recommended for better employment opportunities.
Background Checks
- Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check.
Registration and Licensing
- No, registration with the Hawaii 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 Hawaii Board of Pharmacy.
Average Salary
- $18.91/hr
Useful Links and Resources
Job Outlook and Opportunities for Pharmacy Technicians in Hawaii
Increasing Demand The demand for pharmacy technicians in Hawaii is rising due to the expanding healthcare industry and an aging population.
Diverse Work Environments Pharmacy technicians can find employment in various settings including:
- Retail pharmacies
- Hospitals and clinics
- Long-term care facilities
- Specialty pharmacies
- Mail-order pharmacy services
Advancement Opportunities Pharmacy technicians can advance their careers by:
- Pursuing additional certifications (e.g., compounding)
- Specializing in fields such as oncology or pediatrics
- Moving into supervisory or training roles
- Continuing education to become a pharmacist
Salary Expectations The average hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in Hawaii is approximately $18.91, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and additional certifications.
Professional Resources
- Hawaii Board of Pharmacy: Provides information on licensing, regulations, and continuing education.
- 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 Hawaii?
- 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 Hawaii?
- PTCB certification is not required but recommended to enhance employment prospects and salary potential.
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 Hawaii?
- The demand is growing, providing numerous job opportunities.
Where can I work as a pharmacy technician in Hawaii?
- 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 Hawaii?
- The average salary is $18.91 per hour, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and additional certifications.