Steps to Become a Pharmacy Technician in Ohio
- Meet State Requirements
- Register as a Pharmacy Technician Trainee: Apply to the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy and complete a criminal background check.
- Complete Training: Enroll in a Board-approved training program.
- Obtain Certification: Pass the PTCE or ExCPT if seeking Certified Technician status.
- Register as a Pharmacy Technician: Finalize registration as either a Registered or Certified Pharmacy Technician.
- Maintain CE Requirements: Complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education Requirement: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
- Training: Complete a Board-approved pharmacy technician training program.
- Registration: Must register with the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy as a Trainee, Registered Technician, or Certified Technician.
- Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check.
- Standing: Must maintain registration in good standing with the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy.
Education and Training
In Ohio, completing a Board-approved training program is recommended, particularly for those pursuing certification or advanced technician roles.
Training covers key topics, including pharmacy law, medication safety, and pharmacology. Program length varies, typically lasting from six months to two years depending on the institution.
Hands-on experience plays a significant role, as students learn tasks such as prescription processing and medication compounding under supervision. Graduates are well-prepared to meet Ohio’s certification requirements, equipping them with the skills necessary to succeed in the certification exams.
Learn more: Pharmacy Technician Schools and Programs in Ohio
Trainee Program
A Pharmacy Technician Trainee in Ohio is an entry-level position for individuals beginning their journey in the pharmacy field. Trainees are distinct from Registered or Certified Pharmacy Technicians in that they are still in the learning phase and must work under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Unlike registered or certified techs, trainees have limited responsibilities and cannot perform more advanced tasks such as sterile compounding.
The role is designed to provide hands-on experience while working toward full certification. Trainees must complete a Board-approved program and meet state requirements within a one-year registration period. Unlike registered pharmacy technicians, who can perform more independent tasks after initial training, trainees must always be closely monitored by a pharmacist.
During this period, the trainee should work toward obtaining national certification (PTCE or ExCPT) or complete requirements for a Registered Pharmacy Technician. Trainees play a critical role in assisting with day-to-day pharmacy operations but are focused primarily on learning and gaining experience in the field.
Certification
In Ohio, pharmacy technicians are not required to hold national certification to work, but becoming certified offers significant advantages and opportunities for advancement. The state allows individuals to register as either a Registered Pharmacy Technician or a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT).
While registration as a Trainee or Registered Technician does not mandate national certification, those seeking the Certified Technician designation must pass an accredited exam such as the PTCE or ExCPT.
Licensing/Registration
To work as a pharmacy technician in Ohio, individuals must be registered with the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy under one of three designations: Pharmacy Technician Trainee, Registered Pharmacy Technician, or Certified Pharmacy Technician.
- Pharmacy Technician Trainee: Requires registration with the Board and is valid for one year (with possible extension).
- Registered Pharmacy Technician: This designation does not require national certification but does require Board-approved training and successful registration.
- Certified Pharmacy Technician: Must pass a national certification exam (PTCE or ExCPT) and meet state-specific requirements.
Applicants must pass a criminal background check, submit fingerprints, and maintain active registration in compliance with the Board’s rules. Each designation has distinct duties and requirements, with certified technicians typically taking on more advanced responsibilities. The renewal process for each registration requires ongoing compliance with state and training guidelines.
Continuing Education
Pharmacy technicians in Ohio must complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their registration, ensuring they stay updated on the latest in pharmacy practices and regulations. For Certified Pharmacy Technicians, the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy requires a total of 20 hours of continuing education every two years. This must include:
- 1 hour of pharmacy law
- 1 hour of patient safety
Technicians must ensure their CE is accredited by organizations like the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). CE records should be maintained for compliance during renewal periods.
Resources
Ohio State Board of Pharmacy
www.pharmacy.ohio.gov
Office: 77 S High St, Room 1702. Columbus, OH 43215-6126
Telephone: 614-466-4143
Fax: 614-752-4836
Professional Association for Ohio Pharmacy Technicians:
Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA)
http://associationdatabase.com/aws/OPA/pt/sp/Home_Page