What does a Senior Pharmacy Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A senior pharmacy technician is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy. They may work in a hospital, retail, or clinical setting. Senior pharmacy technicians typically have more experience than entry-level technicians and may be responsible for supervising other technicians. They may also be involved in training new employees.
Senior Pharmacy Technician job duties include:
- Maintaining records of patient profiles, including allergies, medications, and medical histories
- Entering patient information and prescription orders into the computer
- Preparing labels for and dispensing medications
- Compounding medications
- Packaging and labeling medications for dispensing
- Maintaining inventory of medications and supplies
- Ordering medications and supplies as needed
- Answering phones and responding to inquiries from patients, doctors, and insurance companies
- Assisting pharmacists in other tasks as needed
Senior Pharmacy Technician Job Requirements
A Senior Pharmacy Technician typically requires an Associate's degree in pharmacy technology, although some jobs may only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification as a pharmacy technician (CPhT) is generally required, and experience as a pharmacy technician is also preferred. Some Senior Pharmacy Technician positions may also require certification in a specialized area, such as compounding or nuclear pharmacy.
Senior Pharmacy Technician Skills
- Inventory management
- Ordering and receiving
- Patient profiles
- Insurance billing
- Compounding
- Dispensing
- Supervising
- Training
- Sterile compounding
- Unit dose packaging
- IV admixture preparation
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How to become a Senior Pharmacy Technician
In order to become a Senior Pharmacy Technician, one must first complete a certified pharmacy technician program and pass the national certification exam. After becoming certified, one must then obtain a state license. Once licensed, one must then complete on-the-job training under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. After completing on-the-job training, one can then take the Senior Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam.
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