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Pharmacy Technician New Mexico Requirements

To become a pharmacy technician in New Mexico, 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, including fingerprinting.
  3. Certification: Obtain PTCB or ExCPT certification within one year of employment.
  4. Training: Complete 220 hours of technician-related work under a licensed pharmacist.
  5. Application: Submit a notarized application with a passport photo and a $30 fee to the New Mexico State Board of Pharmacy.

Pharmacy Technicians in New Mexico are regulated by the state. Certification is required, and candidates must register with the New Mexico State Board of Pharmacy before starting employment.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
  2. Education: High school diploma or GED, proficiency in English.
  3. Background Check: Criminal background check and fingerprinting required. Candidates must not have a history of drug-related crimes.
  4. Application Fee: $30.00 non-refundable, including a passport photo and notarized application.

Training and Certification

  • Certification: Required within one year of employment. Candidates must pass the PTCB or ExCPT exam. More info on the PTCB website.
  • Training: Complete 220 hours of technician-related work under a licensed pharmacist.

Application Process

Continuing Education

  • CE Requirements: 20 hours of CE every two years, including one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety.
  • Renewal: License renewal fee of $30.00 biennially.

Salary and Job Outlook

  • Annual Salary: Approximately $40,310.
  • Hourly Wage: About $19.38.
  • Job Growth: Positive outlook with opportunities for advancement, including roles like lead technician or pharmacy manager.

Training Programs in New Mexico

  • Central New Mexico Community College (Albuquerque)
  • San Juan College (Farmington)
  • University of New Mexico (Albuquerque)

Resources

  • New Mexico State Board of Pharmacy: For regulations and updates.
  • PTCB: Certification details and exam information.
  • ASHP: Accredited training programs and CE resources.

Conclusion

Meeting state requirements and obtaining certification are essential for pharmacy technicians pursuing a career in New Mexico. For up-to-date information, visit the New Mexico State Board of Pharmacy.

Advanced Certifications and Specializations

Pharmacy technicians in New Mexico can pursue advanced certifications and specializations to enhance their careers. These certifications can open opportunities for specialized roles within the pharmacy sector, such as:

  • Sterile Compounding: Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT) for those interested in working with IV medications.
  • Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Special training to assist pharmacists in managing patients’ medication therapies.
  • Chemo Certification: Specialized training in handling and preparing chemotherapy medications safely.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Pharmacy technicians in New Mexico can advance their careers through various pathways:

  1. Lead Technician: Overseeing the work of other technicians and ensuring the pharmacy operates smoothly.
  2. Pharmacy Supervisor/Manager: Taking on more administrative and managerial responsibilities.
  3. Pharmacy Technology Instructor: Teaching future technicians in community colleges or vocational programs.
  4. Specialized Pharmacy Settings: Working in hospitals, oncology clinics, or compounding pharmacies.

Networking and Professional Development

Joining professional organizations can provide valuable networking opportunities and resources for continuing education:

  • New Mexico Pharmacy Technician Association (NMPTA): Offers resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education.
  • American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): Provides national-level resources and professional development.
  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Offers certification and continuing education resources.

Important Considerations

  • Ethical Conduct: Adhering to ethical guidelines and maintaining patient confidentiality is crucial.
  • Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with pharmacy management software and automated dispensing machines is increasingly important.
  • Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and customer service skills are essential for interacting with patients and healthcare professionals.
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