Top 10 Pharmacy Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a pharmacy coordinator’s job market credentials. Certifications help demonstrate a pharmacy coordinator’s knowledge and expertise in their field, as well as their commitment to professional development. They also show potential employers that the individual has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices. Additionally, certifications may be required for certain positions or provide additional opportunities for advancement within the profession. Ultimately, certifications can give pharmacy coordinators an edge in a competitive job market by providing evidence of their qualifications and competency.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Pharmacy Coordinators and explain how they can enhance a pharmacy coordinator's career.

What are Pharmacy Coordinator Certifications?

Pharmacy Coordinator Certification is a certification program that provides aspiring and current pharmacy coordinators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively coordinate medication orders, fill prescriptions, manage inventory, and control expenses. Pharmacy Coordinators are responsible for ensuring that medications are accurately ordered and dispensed in a timely manner. This certification program helps those interested in becoming a pharmacy coordinator gain the necessary qualifications to become successful in the field.

The certification program covers topics such as medical terminology, pharmacy law and regulations, drug classifications and therapeutic effects, patient safety practices, documentation requirements for controlled substances, inventory management systems, patient counseling techniques, customer service skills, billing procedures, problem solving strategies and more. Upon completion of the program participants will have an understanding of how to efficiently manage a pharmacy department’s operations. With this knowledge they will be able to provide better customer service by helping patients understand their medication instructions; help doctors order medications correctly; process payments accurately; maintain an adequate supply of medications; ensure proper security measures are taken; keep accurate records; and maintain compliance with laws and regulations.

By obtaining their Pharmacy Coordinator Certification individuals will demonstrate their commitment to quality patient care which can lead to career advancement opportunities within the industry. The certification also allows employers to identify qualified candidates who possess the required knowledge for the position.

Pro Tip: When obtaining a pharmacy coordinator certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the specific institution or organization providing the certification. This will ensure that you are meeting all of their criteria and that your certification is valid.

Related: What does a Pharmacy Coordinator do?

Top 10 Pharmacy Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Pharmacy Coordinators today.

1. Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)

A Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to assist pharmacists in the preparation and dispensing of medications. CPhTs are responsible for accurately measuring, counting, pouring and packaging medication orders, as well as maintaining patient records. They also provide customer service, answer questions about medications and help patients understand their prescriptions.

The certification process typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level. In order to become certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by either the National Healthcareer Association or the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. The cost of the exam varies depending on which organization administers it but typically ranges from $150-$200. Additionally, some states require additional certifications such as a background check or drug screening prior to becoming licensed.

2. Certified Medication Technician (CMT)

A Certified Medication Technician (CMT) is an individual who has been trained to administer medications in a healthcare setting. The CMT is responsible for providing medication administration services to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse or pharmacist.

The requirements for becoming a CMT vary by state, but generally include completing an approved training program and passing a certification exam. In some states, individuals may also need to become certified in CPR and first aid before they can become a CMT.

The length of time it takes to become a CMT depends on the state's requirements and the individual's ability to complete the necessary coursework and pass the certification exam. Generally, it takes between four and six weeks to complete the required training program and pass the certification exam.

To become a CMT, individuals must first locate an approved training program in their area. Many community colleges, vocational schools, and hospitals offer these programs. Once enrolled in an approved program, individuals must complete all coursework and clinical hours required by their state before taking the certification exam.

The cost of becoming a CMT varies depending on which state you live in as well as which school you attend for your training program. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 for tuition, books, fees, and other supplies needed for certification.

3. Certified Pharmacy Technician in Training (CPHT-IT)

Certified Pharmacy Technician in Training (CPHT-IT) is a program designed to provide pharmacy technicians with the knowledge and skills needed to become certified pharmacy technicians. The program is administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), an organization that provides certification for healthcare professionals.

The CPHT-IT program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as pharmaceutical calculations, drug therapy, pharmacology, medication safety, and customer service. It typically takes about 8-10 weeks to complete the course. After completing the course, students must pass a national certification exam administered by NHA.

To get started with the CPHT-IT program, you must first register with NHA and pay a fee of $125 USD. Once registered, you will be able to access the online course materials and take the certification exam when you are ready. Upon successful completion of both parts of the program, you will receive your Certified Pharmacy Technician in Training (CPHT-IT) certificate from NHA.

4. Certified Automated Dispensing System Specialist (CADSS)

Certified Automated Dispensing System Specialist (CADSS) is a certification program that focuses on the safe and effective use of automated medication dispensing systems. The certification is offered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).

To become certified, applicants must complete a training program and pass an exam. The training program consists of online modules that cover topics such as system operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety protocols. The course typically takes between 8 to 12 hours to complete.

Applicants must also pass the NABP's Automated Dispensing System Specialist Exam which covers topics such as system components, operations, safety protocols, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost for the CADSS certification is $250 USD for members of NABP or $300 USD for non-members. This fee includes both the training program and the exam fee.

5. Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT)

Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT) is a certification program designed to prepare pharmacy technicians for the practice of sterile compounding. The CSPT certification is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

To become certified, applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and at least one year of full-time work experience in a pharmacy that includes sterile compounding. Applicants must also pass an exam, which consists of two parts: a multiple-choice test and a practical skills assessment.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $129. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CSPT certification, valid for two years. To maintain certification, technicians must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years.

6. Certified Pharmacy Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Pharmacy Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a certification program that provides pharmacy professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage medication inventory. The CPIM program is designed for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and other healthcare professionals who are responsible for managing medication inventories in pharmacies or hospitals. It covers topics such as inventory management systems, purchasing policies and procedures, drug storage requirements, and product recalls.

The CPIM certification is offered by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). To become certified, applicants must pass an online exam that consists of multiple choice questions. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and costs $225.

Applicants must also have at least one year of experience managing a pharmacy inventory in order to be eligible for the CPIM certification. In addition, they must submit proof of current licensure in their state or country of residence.

Once an applicant has successfully completed the CPIM exam, they will receive a certificate from ASHP indicating that they are now a Certified Pharmacy Inventory Manager. This certificate is valid for three years before it must be renewed. Renewal requires passing the same exam again or completing continuing education credits related to pharmacy inventory management.

7. Certified Nuclear Pharmacy Technician (CNPT)

A Certified Nuclear Pharmacy Technician (CNPT) is a professional who has been certified by the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) to work in the field of nuclear pharmacy. This certification is designed to ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle and dispense radioactive materials used in nuclear medicine.

The CNPT certification requires applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as at least one year of experience working in the field of nuclear pharmacy. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by BPS. The exam covers topics such as radiation safety, pharmacology, and drug delivery systems.

The process to become a CNPT takes approximately six months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete an application form, submit their transcripts and other required documents, take the exam, and wait for their results.

The cost for taking the CNPT exam is $350 USD for non-members of BPS and $250 USD for members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting applications or transcripts.

8. Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Technician (CAPT)

Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Technician (CAPT) is a certification program offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). It is designed to recognize pharmacy technicians who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in providing safe and effective medication management services in an ambulatory care setting. This includes outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, home health care agencies, and other ambulatory care settings.

To obtain the CAPT certification, applicants must complete a PTCB-approved training program or demonstrate equivalent work experience. The applicant must also pass the CAPT exam administered by PTCB. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as pharmacology, patient safety, medication storage and handling, drug information systems, and more.

The cost of the CAPT certification depends on the type of training program you choose to take. Most programs range from $250-$500 for tuition and fees. The cost of taking the exam is $129 for members of PTCB or $169 for non-members.

Once all requirements are met, it typically takes 2-4 weeks to receive your CAPT certification upon passing the exam.

9. Certified Immunization Delivery Technician (CIDT)

A Certified Immunization Delivery Technician (CIDT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to administer immunizations. CIDTs are responsible for providing immunization services to individuals, families, and communities in accordance with state and federal laws and regulations.

The CIDT certification requires completing an approved training program that includes both classroom instruction and practical experience. The length of the program varies by state, but typically takes between 10-20 hours to complete. Upon completion of the training program, applicants must pass a written exam in order to become certified.

To become a CIDT, you must first find an approved training program in your state or region. You can find information about approved programs on your state’s health department website or through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once you have identified an approved training program, you will need to register for the class and pay any associated fees.

The cost of becoming a CIDT varies by state, but typically ranges from $50-$100. This fee covers the cost of materials such as textbooks, videos, handouts, etc., as well as any administrative costs associated with taking the certification exam.

10. National Healthcareer Association’s Pharmacy Service Certification (NHA-PSC).

The National Healthcareer Association’s Pharmacy Service Certification (NHA-PSC) is a credential that recognizes individuals who are knowledgeable and skilled in providing pharmacy services. This certification is designed to assess the competency of individuals in the areas of customer service, medication safety, drug information, and pharmacy operations.

In order to obtain this certification, an individual must first complete an NHA-PSC exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as pharmacology, pharmacy law and ethics, medication safety and quality assurance, customer service skills, and pharmacy operations. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

Once an individual has passed the NHA-PSC exam, they must then submit an application for certification. This application includes a fee of $195 USD and requires the applicant to provide proof of completion of the NHA-PSC exam as well as verification of current employment in a pharmacy setting or equivalent experience. Once all requirements have been met and approved by the NHA-PSC board, the applicant will receive their certificate within 4-6 weeks.

The cost for taking the NHA-PSC exam is $95 USD. The cost for applying for certification is $195 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Do You Really Need a Pharmacy Coordinator Certificate?

Whether or not you need a pharmacy coordinator certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. Generally speaking, most employers will require a pharmacy coordinator to have either an associate’s degree in pharmacy technology or a certification from a professional organization such as the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA).

Having a pharmacy coordinator certificate can be beneficial for those who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. It is also beneficial for those who are looking to advance in their career or gain employment in the industry. The certificate shows that you have taken the time to become qualified and knowledgeable about the job duties of a pharmacy coordinator.

In addition, having a certificate may give you more credibility when it comes to applying for jobs. Employers may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the initiative to get certified and has proven they have the necessary knowledge and skills required for the position.

Ultimately, it is up to you if you decide getting a pharmacy coordinator certificate is right for you. If you are interested in advancing your career or gaining employment opportunities within this field, then obtaining certification could help increase your chances of success.

Related: Pharmacy Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Pharmacy Coordinator Certifications

Q1. What is a Pharmacy Coordinator Certification?

A1. A Pharmacy Coordinator Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of pharmacy services. The certification validates competence in pharmacy operations, medication safety, and compliance with ethical standards and laws.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Pharmacy Coordinator?

A2. To become certified as a Pharmacy Coordinator, you must complete an accredited certification program and pass an exam administered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).

Q3. What qualifications do I need to be eligible for certification?

A3. To be eligible for certification, you must have at least two years of experience working in a pharmacy setting and possess a current license from your state board of pharmacy.

Q4. How long does it take to receive my certification?

A4. Once you have successfully completed all requirements for certification, you should receive your certification within four to six weeks after submitting your application materials to the NABP.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my Pharmacy Coordinator Certification?

A5. Your Pharmacy Coordinator Certification must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid and active.