How to Become a Pharmacy Tech in Florida
- Find and complete a state-approved training program
- Obtain nationwide certification
- Get registered with Florida Board of Pharmacy
- Maintain your state registration by following CE requirements
Florida State Requirements
- Age and Education: Candidates must be at least 17 years old and complete a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program, which could be from accredited agencies, the Florida public school system, or military training.
- Legal Status: Candidates must have legal ability to work in the United States.
- Criminal Background Check: Applicants with a criminal or disciplinary history must provide specific documentation.
- Application Process: Applicants must apply online, ensuring all fields are completed. An incomplete application will expire after one year. Include your Social Security Number, as applications without this will not be approved. Official transcripts and completion certificates should be mailed directly to the Board, not uploaded online, to ensure they are considered official. The application fee is $50, and the total cost including licensure and unlicensed activity fees is $105. Allow 30 days for initial review. Applications and required documents are reviewed in the order received. Deficiencies, if any, will be communicated in writing.
- Certification Exam: Florida does not specify a need to pass the PTCB or ExCPT exams for initial registration.
- Registration Renewal: Pharmacy technicians must renew their registration biennially.
Training
Becoming a pharmacy technician in Florida requires completing a state-approved training program. These programs are designed to equip prospective technicians with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively in a pharmacy setting.
Florida recognizes several types of training programs for pharmacy technicians, including those offered by:
- Accredited agencies such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
- Educational institutions within the Florida public school system.
- Military training programs.
- Institutions accredited by the Council on Occupational Education.
These programs typically cover various aspects of pharmacy work, including medication dispensing, pharmacy law, ethics, and patient interaction. Training may also involve hands-on experience through externships or simulated lab components, providing practical exposure to real-world pharmacy operations.
Certification
While Florida does not require pharmacy technicians to be certified, obtaining certification can significantly enhance your career prospects. Certification through organizations like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association (NHA) can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and competence in the field.
Certified technicians often have an edge in job searches, enjoy better job opportunities, and may receive higher salaries compared to non-certified peers.
Additionally, certification provides access to continuing education and professional development resources, keeping you updated with industry standards and best practices.
Licensing and Registration
To become a registered pharmacy technician in Florida, follow these steps:
- Complete a State-Approved Training Program: Enroll in and finish a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program.
- Submit Application: Apply online at the Florida Board of Pharmacy website. Ensure all fields are completed, including your Social Security Number.
- Background Check: Undergo a criminal background check as part of the application process.
- Provide Documentation: Submit proof of training program completion. Official transcripts must be mailed directly from the institution to the Board.
- Pay Fees: The total fee is $105, which includes a $50 application fee, $50 initial registration fee, and a $5 unlicensed activity fee. Payments should be made via certified check or money order to the Florida Department of Health.
- Application Review: Allow 30 days for the initial review. The Board reviews applications and documents in the order they are received and communicates any deficiencies in writing.
- License Issuance: Once the application is complete and approved, the Board will issue the pharmacy technician license.
Continuing Education
In Florida, registered pharmacy technicians are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. This ensures they stay current with industry practices and maintain high standards of patient care. The CE requirements include:
- 4 Hours Live Presentation: These live sessions provide interactive learning experiences, enhancing the understanding of practical applications and current trends in pharmacy.
- 2 Hours on Medication Errors: These courses focus on preventing medication errors, a critical aspect of pharmacy practice, to improve patient safety.
- 1 Hour on HIV/AIDS: This training provides essential knowledge on managing and understanding HIV/AIDS, crucial for comprehensive patient care.
These specific hours do not need to be live sessions, except for the designated 4 hours. The CE courses must be approved by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) or the Florida Board of Pharmacy to count towards the renewal requirements.
For those pursuing or maintaining certification through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), there are further CE requirements. PTCB-certified pharmacy technicians must also complete 20 hours of CE every two years.
This includes at least 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety. Certification helps in staying updated with the latest practices and enhances job prospects, as many employers prefer or require certification
Resources:
Florida Department of Health: Board of Pharmacy
Website: www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/pharmacy
Office: 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin #C-04 Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: 850-245-4292
Professional Association for Florida pharmacy technicians:
Florida Pharmacy Association
www.pharmview.com