Steps To Become A Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina
- Meet Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Complete a State-Approved Pharmacy Technician Training Program
- Obtain National Certification
- Apply for Registration with the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy
- Receive Your Pharmacy Technician License
- Maintain and Renew Your Certification and License
- Explore Career Advancement Opportunities
South Carolina State Requirements
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Must have a high school diploma or GED.
- Training: Completion of a state-approved pharmacy technician training program.
- Examination: Must pass a national certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT).
- Registration: Must apply for and obtain a Pharmacy Technician registration with the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy.
- Background Check: Must undergo a criminal background check.
- Continuing Education: Must complete continuing education requirements as mandated by the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy.
- Good Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character and not have any disqualifying criminal convictions.
Training and Education
To become a Pharmacy Technician in South Carolina, candidates must first have a high school diploma or GED and complete a state-approved pharmacy technician training program. These programs, available through community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions, typically range from 6 months to 2 years.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as pharmacy law, medication preparation, pharmaceutical calculations, inventory management, and customer service skills. Many programs also include hands-on internships or on-the-job training to provide real-world experience.
Choosing an accredited program is crucial for meeting state certification standards. Training can be completed through in-person or online formats, offering flexibility based on individual needs.
Additionally, financial aid options like scholarships or state-sponsored assistance may be available to help cover program costs.
This foundational training equips future pharmacy technicians with the necessary skills to succeed in the field and prepares them for the certification exams and future employment.
Certification
In South Carolina, obtaining national certification is a key requirement to becoming a Pharmacy Technician. Candidates must pass either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) provided by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Eligibility for these exams requires completing a state-approved training program, being at least 18 years old, and passing a background check.
To prepare for the exams, candidates often use study guides, practice tests, and review courses. After successfully passing the exam, certification must be renewed every two years by completing continuing education (CE) requirements.
Obtaining and maintaining certification not only increases job opportunities but also ensures compliance with industry standards, opening doors to further career advancement.
Licensing and Registration
Pharmacy Technicians in South Carolina must obtain registration and a state license to practice. The process begins with submitting an application to the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy, which includes proof of age, completion of an approved training program, and national certification.
A criminal background check is also required. Upon approval, the technician will be granted a state license, which must be prominently displayed at the workplace.
Licenses need to be renewed every two years, accompanied by the completion of continuing education (CE) requirements.
Continuing Education
Continuing education (CE) is essential for Pharmacy Technicians in South Carolina to maintain their license and certification. Each year, technicians must complete 10 hours of CE, including at least one hour dedicated to pharmacy law.
CE activities can include accredited courses, workshops, webinars, and self-study programs, and they must be approved by the South Carolina Board of Pharmacy or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
Technicians are responsible for keeping records of their completed CE hours for at least three years, as the Board may conduct audits during the license renewal process. Timely completion and submission of CE credits are crucial to avoid penalties or delays in renewing licenses and certifications, ensuring compliance with state regulations and staying up-to-date with industry advancements.
Resources
South Carolina Department of Labor Licensing and Regulation – Board of Pharmacy
www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/pharmacy
Offcie: Synergy Business Park, Kingstree Building, 110 Centerview Drive, Suite 202. Columbia, SC 29210
Mail: PO Box 11927
Telephone: 803-896-4700
Fax: 803-896-4596
Professional Association for South Carolina Pharmacy Technicians:
South Carolina Pharmacy Association (SCPhA)
www.scrx.org