Steps to become a pharmacy technician in Oregon
- Meet Age and Education Requirements. Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply for Oregon Pharmacy Technician License. Submit an application through the Oregon State Board of Pharmacy’s eLicensing system, including necessary documentation and fees.
- Complete Background Check. Undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
- Start Working as a Pharmacy Technician. Begin working under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist while completing certification, if applicable.
- Earn National Certification. Pass the PTCB or ExCPT exam to become a certified pharmacy technician (optional but recommended for career advancement).
- Complete Continuing Education (CE). Fulfill 20 hours of CE every two years, including courses in pharmacy law and patient safety.
- Renew License Every Two Years. Submit the renewal application, CE documentation, and renewal fee before June 30 of even-numbered years to maintain an active license.
State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education Requirement: Must have a high school diploma or GED.
- Background Check: Required to undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
- Certification Requirement: Must pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
- Registration Requirement: Must apply for licensure with the Oregon State Board of Pharmacy.
- Fees: Application fee is $146.25, which includes a $100 application fee and $46.25 for a fingerprint background check.
- Continuing Education: Must complete 20 hours of board-approved continuing education every two years, including 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety.
- License Renewal: Must renew license every two years, with a renewal fee of $104.00.
Education and Training
In Oregon, formal training is not required by the state for pharmacy technicians to work in the field. However, completing a pharmacy technician training program is highly recommended. Such programs typically cover essential topics like pharmacology, pharmacy law, medication safety, and customer service skills. This structured training helps prepare aspiring pharmacy technicians for certification exams like the PTCB or ExCPT, which are required for higher certification levels.
Most pharmacy technician training programs focus on developing critical skills such as prescription processing, dosage calculations, and understanding drug interactions. Additionally, students often learn about inventory management and patient communication, which are vital for success in both retail and hospital settings. Training may also include practical experience or externships, providing valuable on-the-job exposure.
While training isn’t mandatory in Oregon, completing a formal program can significantly increase job prospects. Many employers prefer or require candidates with formal training because it ensures they are well-prepared to meet the demands of the role, including managing medication safely and providing excellent patient care. Overall, investing in training can give you a competitive edge and make the certification process smoother.
Certification
Certification is not mandated in Oregon to start working as a pharmacy technician, but it is highly recommended for career advancement and long-term employment. Although technicians can work for up to one year without certification, after this period, many employers require national certification. Becoming certified demonstrates your competency in essential areas like medication safety, federal regulations, and patient care, which can increase your chances of landing a better position and potentially earning a higher salary.
The two most common certifications for pharmacy technicians are the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification and the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT). Both certifications are recognized nationally, and passing either of these exams is typically required to become a Certified Oregon Pharmacy Technician (COPT). The exams cover key areas like pharmacy law, medications, and dispensing procedures, ensuring that certified technicians meet national standards of practice.
Getting certified also opens the door to more opportunities in specialized areas like hospital pharmacies or compounding. Many employers prefer certified technicians because it assures them that candidates have a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to work safely and efficiently. Additionally, certification often leads to greater job security and career growth, making it a valuable investment in your future.
Licensing/Registration
In Oregon, pharmacy technicians are required to obtain a state license and complete the registration process through the Oregon State Board of Pharmacy before beginning employment. The process involves submitting necessary documentation, undergoing a criminal background check, and paying the required fees. Licensing ensures that technicians meet the state’s standards for safe and effective practice in a pharmacy setting.
Licenses must be renewed every two years, with the renewal date set for June 30th of even-numbered years. Technicians are responsible for completing the renewal process through Oregon’s online eLicensing system, which includes paying the renewal fee and submitting proof of continuing education (CE). Maintaining an active license is crucial for continued employment, as working without one is not permitted by law.
If a license expires, technicians can usually reinstate it by completing the renewal requirements. However, if a license has lapsed for more than a year, additional steps may be required for reinstatement, such as submitting new documentation or undergoing a more thorough review. For those relocating from another state, Oregon offers reciprocity for technicians who hold national certification, making it easier for out-of-state professionals to transfer their credentials and continue their careers.
Continuing Education
In Oregon, continuing education (CE) is mandatory for pharmacy technicians as part of the license renewal process. Pharmacy technicians must complete 20 hours of CE every two years to maintain their licensure. This requirement includes 1 hour in pharmacy law and 1 hour in patient safety to ensure that technicians stay updated on essential legal and safety practices. These CE credits must be from accredited programs approved by the state or a recognized certification body like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
If a pharmacy technician is nationally certified through the PTCB or ExCPT, they are also required to meet national CE requirements, which are similar to Oregon’s. The PTCB mandates 20 hours of CE every two years, with at least 1 hour dedicated to pharmacy law and another hour to patient safety. National certification bodies may have additional specific requirements, but fulfilling Oregon’s state CE requirements typically aligns with these national standards.
Staying current with continuing education not only helps meet regulatory requirements but also enhances a technician’s skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle new challenges in the field and provide quality patient care.
Resources
Oregon State Board of Pharmacy
www.pharmacy.state.or.us
Office: Portland State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Suite 150. Portland, OR 97232-2162
Telephone: 971-673-0001
Fax: 971-673-0002
Professional Association for Oregon Pharmacy Technicians:
Oregon State Pharmacy Association (OSPA)
www.oregonpharmacy.org