How To Become A Pharmacy Technician In Minnesota

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

Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.
Background Check: Complete a criminal background check.
Certification: Certification through PTCB or ExCPT is not mandatory but recommended.
Training: Complete 480 hours of practical training under a qualified pharmacist.
Registration: Apply to the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy and pay a $135 fee.
Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of CE every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety.

Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota must meet state regulations, including education, training, and continuing education. While certification is not mandatory, it is highly recommended.

Basic Requirements

Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
Background Check: A thorough criminal background check is mandatory.
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $135.00.

Certification and Training

Certification: Certification through PTCB or ExCPT is not mandatory but approved. More information can be found on the PTCB website.
Training: Completing 480 hours of practical training under a qualified pharmacist or a recognized PTCB course is required.

Registration Process

Apply: Candidates must apply to the Minnesota State Board of Pharmacy.
Approval: Candidates cannot practice until they receive approval from the Board.

Continuing Education

Hours: Pharmacy Technicians must complete at least 20 Continuing Education (CE) hours every two years.
Content: CE must include one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety.
Fee: A renewal fee of $20.00 is required annually.

Average Salary

Annual Salary: The average annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota is approximately $32,070.
Hourly Wage: This equates to an average hourly wage of about $15.42.
Factors Influencing Salary: Experience, location, and workplace setting can affect earnings.

Job Outlook and Career Advancement

Job Growth: Employment for Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota is expected to grow, driven by an increasing demand for healthcare services.
Career Advancement: Opportunities for advancement include becoming a lead technician, specializing in oncology or compounding, or transitioning to roles such as a Pharmacy Technician Instructor or a Pharmacy Manager.

Training Programs in Minnesota

Several accredited programs provide the necessary training:

Minnesota State Community and Technical College (various locations)
Hennepin Technical College (Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie)
Rasmussen College (various locations)

Resources

Minnesota State Board of Pharmacy: For detailed regulations and updates.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): For certification information and exam details.
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): For accredited training programs and continuing education resources.

Conclusion

Meeting Minnesota’s requirements is essential for pharmacy technicians pursuing a career. Always refer to the Minnesota State Board of Pharmacy for the latest information and updates.