Pharmacy Technician Oklahoma Requirements

To become a pharmacy technician in Oklahoma, 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, including fingerprinting.
Training: Complete Phase I training before employment and Phase II training within 90 days of employment.
Certification: PTCB certification is recommended but not mandatory.
Registration: Register with the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy, paying a $40 application fee and renewing annually.

The Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy oversees the licensing of pharmacy technicians in Oklahoma. Technicians must complete a required training program and wear a tag identifying their role in the pharmacy once approved.

To prepare for the PTCB exam and obtain a pharmacy tech license, candidates must register with the Oklahoma State 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.
Candidates must be proficient in the English language.

Certification Requirements

PTCB certification is not required to practice in Oklahoma but is often required by employers.

Background Checks

Candidates must undergo a thorough criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
Candidates must not have a history of drug-related crimes.

Registration and Licensing

Yes, registration with the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy is required.
Mandatory application fee: $40.
Phase I training must be completed before employment.
Phase II training must be completed within 90 days of employment.
Licenses are renewed annually for a fee of $40.

Continuing Education Requirements

The state does not mandate continuous education, but the PTCB requires certification maintenance.

Technician Representation on Board

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

Average Salary

$13.40/hr

Useful Links and Resources

Advanced Certifications and Specializations

Pharmacy technicians in Oklahoma can pursue advanced certifications to enhance their careers, such as:

Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT): For working with sterile medications.
Medication Therapy Management (MTM): Assisting pharmacists in managing patients’ medications.
Chemo Certification: Specializing in the handling and preparation of chemotherapy medications.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Pharmacy technicians can advance their careers in various ways:

Lead Technician: Overseeing other technicians and ensuring smooth pharmacy operations.
Pharmacy Supervisor/Manager: Taking on more administrative and managerial responsibilities.
Instructor: Teaching in pharmacy technician programs.
Specialized Roles: Working in hospitals, oncology clinics, or compounding pharmacies.

Networking and Professional Development

Joining professional organizations offers networking and continuing education opportunities:

Oklahoma Pharmacy Technician Association (OPTA): Provides resources and networking opportunities.
American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): Offers national resources and professional development.
Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): Provides certification and continuing education resources.

Important Considerations

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