Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Delaware
- Meet the Age and Education Requirements: Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete Registration: Register with the Delaware Board of Pharmacy, including undergoing a background check.
- Consider Certification: While PTCB certification is not required, it is recommended for better job prospects.
- Fulfill Continuing Education: Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific credits in pharmacy law and patient safety.
- Maintain Registration: Renew registration biannually and stay compliant with all requirements.
State Requirements
- Age and Education: Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check.
- Certification: PTCB certification is optional but recommended for better employment opportunities.
- Continuing Education: Must complete 20 hours of continuing education every 2 years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety.
- Fees: Pay requisite registration and continuing education fees regularly.
Education and Training
In Delaware, formal training for pharmacy technicians is not mandated by the state, but it is highly recommended to increase job prospects and skill levels. Training programs often cover essential subjects like pharmacy law, pharmacy calculations, medication safety, drug preparation, and customer service.
Many training courses include hands-on internships in retail and hospital settings, providing valuable real-world experience. Completing a recognized Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) course can also prepare candidates for certification exams, further enhancing employment opportunities and allowing technicians to take on more complex tasks.
Certification
In Delaware, certification is not required to work as a pharmacy technician, but obtaining it is highly encouraged for those seeking better job prospects. Certification demonstrates a higher level of skill and knowledge, which is attractive to employers, and may open the door to more responsibilities such as compounding medications and handling sensitive tasks under less supervision.
The most recognized certification is through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which requires passing the PTCB exam. Another option is the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) certification, which also tests core competencies for pharmacy technicians.
Earning certification not only boosts employability but also prepares technicians for career growth and higher pay. Certified technicians often find themselves in roles with greater responsibility, such as preparing more complex medications or working in specialized areas like hospitals or compounding pharmacies. Certification also helps build credibility and trust with patients and healthcare providers alike.
Licensing/Registration
In Delaware, licensing is not required for pharmacy technicians, but registration is mandatory with the Delaware Board of Pharmacy before they can begin employment. Registration involves submitting an application, passing a background check, and paying the required fees. While no licensing exam is necessary, technicians must ensure their registration is up to date.
The registration renewal process occurs every two years, and technicians must complete the required continuing education (CE) credits to maintain their status. If a registration expires, technicians can apply for reinstatement by fulfilling all renewal requirements and paying any associated fees.
It’s important to note that Delaware does not offer reciprocity, meaning technicians registered in other states must apply for registration within Delaware following the state’s guidelines. This ensures that all pharmacy technicians working in Delaware meet the same standards and maintain proper credentials.
Continuing Education
In Delaware, continuing education (CE) is required for all registered pharmacy technicians. Every two years, technicians must complete at least 20 hours of CE to maintain their registration. Of these, 1 hour must cover pharmacy law, and another hour must focus on patient safety. These requirements ensure that technicians stay updated on the latest regulations and safety practices.
Pharmacy technicians certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) also need to meet CE requirements. PTCB mandates 20 hours of CE every two years, mirroring Delaware’s requirements, with similar focuses on pharmacy law and patient safety.
Staying compliant with CE requirements helps technicians expand their knowledge, improve job performance, and maintain their employability. Failure to meet CE requirements can result in the suspension of registration, requiring technicians to apply for reinstatement by completing the required hours and paying additional fees.
Resources
The Delaware State Board of Pharmacy Information
Address: Cannon Building, Suite 203, 861 Silver Lake Blvd. Dover, DE 19904
Phone No: 302-744-4500
Fax: 302-739-2711
Website: http://www.dpr.delaware.gov/boards/pharmacy/index.shtml
Are There Any Professional Associations?
The Delaware Pharmacists Society – http://www.dpsrx.org.
Professional Association:
Delaware Association of Pharmacy Technicians (ALAPT) – alaptchapter@yahoo.com