Top 11 Pharmacy Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a pharmacy manager in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has an advanced knowledge of the subject matter and a level of expertise that employers value. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that the pharmacy manager is well-trained and educated in their field, which can lead to better job offers and higher salaries. Additionally, certifications can help pharmacy managers stand out from their peers when applying for jobs and give them an edge over other applicants. Finally, certifications are essential for staying abreast of new developments in the industry and keeping up with changes in the regulatory environment.

This article reviews the top certifications for Pharmacy Managers and explains how they can help advance a pharmacy manager's career.

What are Pharmacy Manager Certifications?

Pharmacy Manager Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the professional competency and achievements of individuals who manage or own pharmacies. This certification is offered through the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). The certification program helps to ensure that pharmacy managers are knowledgeable, competent, and up-to-date on their practice and laws related to pharmacy management.

The certification is designed to provide pharmacists with the necessary skills to manage a successful pharmacy practice. It includes topics such as personnel management, financial management, inventory control, drug regulation, and patient safety. By obtaining this certification, pharmacy managers can demonstrate their commitment to providing quality care and ensure that their pharmacies meet the highest standards for patient safety.

By having certified pharmacy managers on staff, pharmacies can become more efficient in their operations and better serve their customers. This can lead to improved patient satisfaction ratings, increased customer loyalty, and potential cost savings due to improved operational efficiencies. Additionally, certified pharmacy managers may be eligible for higher compensation or job promotions due to their expertise in managing a successful pharmacy practice.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a pharmacy manager certification, it is important to research the various certifications available and choose one that fits your career goals. Additionally, be sure to stay up-to-date on any changes in the field of pharmacy management to ensure your certification remains current and relevant.

Related: What does a Pharmacy Manager do?

Top 11 Pharmacy Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Pharmacy Manager (CPhM)

Certified Pharmacy Manager (CPhM) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in pharmacy management and leadership. The CPhM designation signifies that an individual has achieved a high level of professional knowledge and expertise in the field of pharmacy management.

The CPhM program consists of three components: an online application, a written examination, and an oral examination. The online application requires applicants to submit their educational background, work experience, and other relevant information. Once the application is approved, applicants must pass a written exam which covers topics such as pharmacy law, ethics, organizational management, financial management, personnel management, patient safety and quality assurance. After passing the written exam, applicants must pass an oral examination which tests their knowledge and skills related to pharmacy management.

The cost for the CPhM program varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for the entire process including both exams and fees associated with submitting your application. The time it takes to get certified also varies depending on how quickly you can complete all components of the program; however it typically takes about six months from start to finish.

2. Certified Geriatric Pharmacy Manager (CGPM)

Certified Geriatric Pharmacy Manager (CGPM) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP). It is designed to recognize pharmacists who have achieved advanced knowledge and experience in providing pharmaceutical care to elderly patients. The CGPM credential demonstrates a commitment to improving the quality of life for older adults through medication therapy management, patient education, and other services.

The CGPM certification requires applicants to have at least two years of practice experience as a pharmacist managing medication therapy for geriatric patients. Applicants must also complete an approved continuing education course in geriatrics, pass an exam administered by ASCP, and maintain a current license to practice pharmacy.

The CGPM certification process typically takes about three months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must submit an application along with proof of their pharmacy license, proof of completion of the approved continuing education course in geriatrics, and payment for the application fee ($150). After submitting the application materials, applicants must then take and pass the exam administered by ASCP. Once all requirements are met, ASCP will issue the CGPM credential within 10-14 business days.

The cost of obtaining the CGPM credential includes the $150 application fee plus any associated costs related to completing the approved continuing education course in geriatrics (e.g., tuition fees or book costs).

3. Board Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacist (BCACP)

A Board Certified Ambulatory Care Pharmacist (BCACP) is a pharmacist who has received specialized training and certification in the provision of comprehensive medication management services. This includes providing patient-centered care in a variety of ambulatory care settings, such as outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and other community health centers. The BCACP certification is offered by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS), a division of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA).

In order to become board certified, an individual must complete a minimum of three years of post-graduate practice experience in ambulatory care pharmacy, pass the BCACP exam administered by BPS, and maintain their certification through continuing education credits. It typically takes about two years to obtain the necessary experience and prepare for the BCACP exam.

The cost for taking the BCACP exam is $425 for members of APhA or $575 for non-members. Additionally, there are fees associated with maintaining your certification through continuing education credits.

4. Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (BCOP)

A Board Certified Oncology Pharmacist (BCOP) is a pharmacist who has completed additional training and certification in the field of oncology. The BCOP credential is awarded by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS) to pharmacists who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and skill in the specialty practice of oncology pharmacy.

The process to become a BCOP includes completing an accredited residency program in oncology pharmacy, passing a board examination administered by BPS, and having at least two years of post-residency experience in oncology pharmacy. It typically takes three to four years to complete all the requirements for BCOP certification.

To get certified as a BCOP, you must first complete an accredited residency program in oncology pharmacy. After completing your residency program, you must pass a board exam administered by BPS. Once you have passed the exam, you must submit an application along with verification of your post-residency experience in oncology pharmacy to BPS for review and approval.

The cost for taking the BCOP exam is $1,200 plus any applicable taxes or fees. Additionally, there may be costs associated with obtaining transcripts from your residency program or other necessary documentation for submitting your application for certification.

5. Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist (BCPP)

Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist (BCPP) is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and experience of pharmacists who specialize in psychiatric medications. It is awarded by the Board of Pharmaceutical Specialties (BPS) after successful completion of an examination.

The BCPP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as psychopharmacology, medication management, mental health conditions, and patient care. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To become eligible for the BCPP exam, applicants must have a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from an accredited college or university and be licensed to practice pharmacy in the United States or Canada. Applicants must also have two years of practice experience in psychiatric pharmacy within the last five years prior to applying for the exam.

The cost for taking the BCPP exam is $500 USD for members of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and $750 USD for non-members.

6. Board Certified Nutrition Support Pharmacist (BCNSP)

Board Certified Nutrition Support Pharmacist (BCNSP) is a certification program offered by the Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS). It is designed to recognize pharmacists who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the practice of nutrition support pharmacy. This certification is voluntary and requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of nutrition support, medication management, patient care, and professional development.

The BCNSP certification process consists of an application, written examination, and a clinical simulation exercise. The application process includes submitting a completed application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of current licensure. Once all documents have been received, applicants will be notified if they are eligible to sit for the examination.

The written examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics related to nutrition support pharmacy practice. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers across the United States. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants must pass a clinical simulation exercise that assesses their ability to apply knowledge gained from the written examination in a simulated patient care setting.

The cost for taking the BCNSP exam varies depending on whether you are an active BPS member or not. For non-members, it costs $400 for the exam fee plus an additional $100 for each clinical simulation exercise taken. For active BPS members, it costs $300 for the exam fee plus an additional $75 for each clinical simulation exercise taken.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their BCNSP certification within 8 weeks after passing both components of the exam.

7. Diplomate of the American College of Apothecaries (DACA)

The Diplomate of the American College of Apothecaries (DACA) is a professional certification that recognizes pharmacists who have achieved advanced competency in the practice of compounding and dispensing medications. The DACA designation is awarded to pharmacists who demonstrate excellence in the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for the safe and effective practice of pharmacy compounding.

In order to become a DACA, an individual must first be a licensed pharmacist. They must then complete an approved training program that includes at least 200 hours of didactic instruction and 400 hours of supervised practical experience in pharmacy compounding.

Once all requirements are met, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the American College of Apothecaries (ACA). After successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their DACA certification from ACA.

The process typically takes about two years to complete and can cost up to $4,000 depending on the type of training program chosen.

8. International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineering Certification in Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (ISPE-QARA)

The International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) Certification in Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs (ISPE-QARA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to work within the pharmaceutical industry. The ISPE-QARA certification is a three-level program which includes: Level 1 - Foundation, Level 2 - Professional, and Level 3 - Expert.

Level 1 – Foundation: This level is designed for those with less than two years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. It focuses on basic concepts related to quality assurance and regulatory affairs. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

Level 2 – Professional: This level is designed for those with more than two years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. It focuses on advanced concepts related to quality assurance and regulatory affairs. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

Level 3 – Expert: This level is designed for those with more than five years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. It focuses on expert-level concepts related to quality assurance and regulatory affairs. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately 6 hours to complete.

To obtain any of these certifications, you must first submit an application form along with proof that you meet all eligibility requirements such as education, experience, etc., then pay a fee for each level you are applying for. Once your application has been approved, you will be able to register for an online examination at a Pearson VUE testing center near you or online through their website.

The cost varies depending on which level you are applying for but generally ranges from $200-$600 USD per level plus applicable taxes/fees.

9. Certified Immunization Delivery Professional (CIDP)

Certified Immunization Delivery Professional (CIDP) is a certification program that provides healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to deliver immunizations safely and effectively. The CIDP program is offered by the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CIDP program consists of an online course, which takes approximately 8 hours to complete, followed by an in-person training session. During the online course, learners will learn about immunization delivery principles, vaccine safety, storage and handling, vaccine administration techniques, patient education, record keeping, and more. Upon completion of the online course, participants must attend an in-person training session to receive their CIDP certification.

To become certified as a CIDP professional, individuals must meet certain requirements including: being at least 18 years old; having a current license or certificate from their state or territory; completing the online course; attending an in-person training session; passing the written exam; and completing 10 hours of clinical practice under supervision.

The cost of the CIDP program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 for the online course plus any additional fees associated with attending the in-person training session.

10. Diplomate of the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (DAMCP)

The Diplomate of the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (DAMCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize pharmacy practitioners who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in managed care pharmacy practice. The DAMCP credential is issued by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).

It typically takes approximately two years to complete the requirements for the DAMCP. Candidates must complete a minimum of 200 hours of approved continuing education activities in managed care pharmacy related topics, including courses from ACPE-accredited providers and other approved sources. In addition, candidates must pass a comprehensive examination administered by the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP).

To be eligible for the DAMCP certification, applicants must hold an active pharmacist license in good standing in at least one state or jurisdiction in the United States or its territories. They must also have at least two years of full-time equivalent experience as a pharmacist providing direct patient care services within managed care settings within five years prior to application submission.

The cost to apply for the DAMCP certification is $500. This fee covers all aspects of the application process including review and processing fees, exam fees, and any applicable continuing education fees.

11. Advanced Cardiac Life Support Provider Certification (ACLS-P).

Advanced Cardiac Life Support Provider Certification (ACLS-P) is a certification program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to manage cardiac arrest, acute coronary syndromes, stroke, and other life-threatening medical emergencies. The program includes didactic instruction, interactive case studies, and hands-on practice sessions.

The ACLS-P certification is valid for two years from the date of successful completion of the course. To obtain the certification, individuals must complete an approved ACLS-P course offered by an accredited provider. Courses typically take 16 hours to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on practice sessions.

In order to get certified in ACLS-P, individuals must first register for a course with an accredited provider. Most courses cost between $300-$500 depending on the provider. The cost of the course typically covers all materials needed for the course including textbooks, study guides, practice exams, and other resources.

Once registered for a course, individuals must complete all required components of the program including didactic instruction, interactive case studies, and hands-on practice sessions in order to receive their certification. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will be issued an ACLS-P card that is valid for two years from the date of successful completion of the course.

Do You Really Need a Pharmacy Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career aspirations. If you are looking to become a pharmacy manager or advance in the field of pharmacy, then having a pharmacy manager certificate can be beneficial. It is important to note that in some states, certification is required for certain positions in the pharmacy field.

Having a certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a pharmacy. It also shows that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the profession and its associated regulations. Furthermore, it can give you an edge over other candidates who do not have certification when applying for positions in the field.

On the other hand, if you are only interested in working as a pharmacy technician, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. In this case, focusing on gaining experience and developing your skills would likely be more beneficial for your career trajectory than obtaining certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a pharmacy manager certificate depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If becoming certified would help you achieve those goals, then it is worth considering investing in such a program.

Related: Pharmacy Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Pharmacy Manager Certifications

1. What is a Pharmacy Manager Certification?

Answer: A Pharmacy Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a pharmacy manager's knowledge and expertise in the management of a pharmacy. It signifies a commitment to quality patient care and adherence to legal and ethical standards within the profession.

2. How do I become certified as a Pharmacy Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a pharmacy manager, you must pass an examination administered by one of the certifying organizations, such as the American Society of Health System Pharmacists (ASHP). You must also complete continuing education requirements for recertification every two years.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Pharmacy Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as a pharmacy manager offers several benefits, including improved job opportunities and increased salary potential. Additionally, it can help demonstrate your commitment to quality patient care and provide credibility to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage their pharmacy operations.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Pharmacy Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a pharmacy manager depends on your current level of education and experience in the field. In general, it takes approximately one year from start to finish in order to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

5. What is required for recertification after becoming certified as a Pharmacy Manager?

Answer: Recertification requires completion of continuing education credits every two years that are approved by one of the certifying organizations, such as ASHP or National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Additionally, some states may require additional licensing or registration with state boards in order to maintain certification status.