What does a Lead Pharmacy Technician do?
Published 4 min read
A lead pharmacy technician is responsible for the daily operations of a pharmacy. They may supervise other technicians and support staff, order and maintain inventory, prepare medications, and provide customer service.
Lead Pharmacy Technician job duties include:
- Maintains pharmacy inventory by checking pharmaceutical stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed medications and supplies; placing and expediting orders for medications and supplies; verifying receipt of medications and supplies.
- Protects patients and technicians by adhering to infection-control policies and protocols.
- Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
- Completes pharmacy operational requirements by scheduling and assigning employees; following up on work results.
- Maintains pharmacological knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks.
- Provides pharmacological information by answering questions and requests of health care professionals; counseling patients on drug therapies.
- Develops hospital staff's pharmacological knowledge by participating in clinical programs; documenting education plans and outcomes.
- Resolves medication discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information.
- Initiates purchase orders for medications, equipment, and sundry items.
- Monitors medication storage areas and control systems to ensure compliance with company policies and government regulations
Lead Pharmacy Technician Job Requirements
Lead pharmacy technicians typically have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most lead pharmacy technicians complete a formal training program. Certification is not required for all lead pharmacy technician positions, but it may be beneficial. Experience as a pharmacy technician is also generally required.
Lead Pharmacy Technician Skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Leadership skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Organizational skills
- Multi-tasking ability
- Problem-solving skills
- Detail-oriented
- Patience
- Customer service skills
- Computer skills
- Knowledge of medical terminology
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How to become a Lead Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician is a health care professional who works in a pharmacy, typically under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to patients and customers. They also perform other tasks such as answering phones, stocking shelves, and taking inventory.
Becoming a lead pharmacy technician typically requires completing a pharmacy technician training program and passing a national certification exam. Some states also require licensure. Lead pharmacy technicians typically have several years of experience working as pharmacy technicians. They may also have additional training or certification in areas such as customer service or management.
Lead pharmacy technicians typically work in larger pharmacies or retail chains. They may be responsible for supervising other pharmacy technicians and providing training and mentorship. They may also be involved in ordering medications and supplies, managing inventory, and resolving customer complaints.
Lead pharmacy technicians must be able to effectively communicate with pharmacists, patients, and other health care professionals. They must be detail-oriented and able to work independently as well as part of a team. Strong customer service skills are essential in this role, as is the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
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