How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Louisiana

To become a pharmacy technician in Louisiana, follow these steps:

Age and Education: Be at least 18 years-old with a high school diploma or GED.
Certification: Obtain PTCB certification.
Background Check: Complete a thorough criminal background check.
Registration: Register with the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy, pay a $25 fee, and complete 600 hours of practical experience.
Continuing Education: Complete 10 hours of board-approved CE each year and pay a $25 annual renewal fee.

The Louisiana Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in Louisiana. Technicians must complete a required training program and obtain certification. 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 Louisiana 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

Yes, PTCB certification is required to practice in Louisiana.

Background Checks

Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check.

Registration and Licensing

Yes, registration with the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy is required.
Mandatory application fee: $25.
Certified pharmacy technician fee: $100.
Candidates must complete 600 hours of practical experience with a licensed pharmacist.
Candidates have up to 18 months from the date of registration to pass the PTCB exam.

Continuing Education Requirements

10 hours of board-approved continuing education (CE) each year.
Renewal fee: $25 annually.

Technician Representation on Board

No, Pharmacy Technicians are not represented on the Louisiana State Board of Pharmacy.

Average Salary

$14.68/hr

Useful Links and Resources

Expanded Roles and Responsibilities

Clinical Roles

Pharmacy technicians in Louisiana can expand their roles into clinical settings by assisting with patient education, managing medication therapy, and supporting clinical trials.

Pharmaceutical Research

Technicians can engage in pharmaceutical research, contributing to developing and testing new medications.

Regulatory Compliance

Ensuring pharmacies comply with state and federal regulations is another advanced role, involving detailed knowledge of laws and meticulous record-keeping.

Community Involvement and Education

Public Health Initiatives

Pharmacy technicians can participate in public health campaigns, such as vaccination drives and health screenings, to improve community health.

Educational Workshops

Conducting educational workshops for the public on medication safety, disease prevention, and healthy living can enhance the technician’s role and community presence.

Networking and Career Development

Professional Associations

Joining organizations like the Louisiana Pharmacists Association (LPA) and the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) provides opportunities for networking, career growth, and access to continuing education resources.

Mentorship and Peer Support

Engaging in mentorship programs can offer career guidance and professional support, helping technicians navigate their career paths effectively.

Workshops and Conferences

Attending industry workshops and conferences helps stay updated on the latest advancements, best practices, and regulatory changes.