13 Certified Pharmacy Technician Interview Questions (With Example Answers)
It's important to prepare for an interview in order to improve your chances of getting the job. Researching questions beforehand can help you give better answers during the interview. Most interviews will include questions about your personality, qualifications, experience and how well you would fit the job. In this article, we review examples of various certified pharmacy technician interview questions and sample answers to some of the most common questions.
Common Certified Pharmacy Technician Interview Questions
- What inspired you to pursue a career in pharmacy?
- What do you think sets pharmacy apart from other healthcare professions?
- What do you think are the most important skills for a pharmacy technician?
- What do you think are the biggest challenges faced by pharmacy technicians?
- What do you think are the biggest benefits of working as a pharmacy technician?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to improve patient care?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to improve their own professional development?
- What do you think are the most important things that pharmacy technicians can do to improve communication with patients?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to build relationships with pharmacists?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to promote themselves as experts in their field?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to stay current on new developments in pharmacy?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to maintain their certification?
- What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to advance their careers?
What inspired you to pursue a career in pharmacy?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to pursue a career in pharmacy. Some people are interested in the science of medication and how it can be used to treat diseases. Others are interested in the business side of pharmacy, such as owning their own pharmacy or working in a hospital pharmacy. Still others are interested in helping people and making a difference in their community.
It is important for the interviewer to understand the candidate's motivations for pursuing a career in pharmacy. This will help them to gauge whether the candidate is likely to be a good fit for the position and the organization. It will also help to identify any areas where the candidate may need additional training or support.
Example: “I have always been interested in the medical field and helping others. When I learned about pharmacy and the role that pharmacists play in patient care, I knew that it was the perfect career for me. I am passionate about making sure that patients receive the best possible care and medication, and I believe that as a pharmacy technician, I can make a difference in people's lives.”
What do you think sets pharmacy apart from other healthcare professions?
There are a few reasons an interviewer might ask this question. They could be trying to gauge your understanding of the profession and what you think its key distinguishing characteristics are. They could also be interested in hearing your thoughts on how pharmacy technicians fit into the larger healthcare team.
It's important to be able to articulate what you think sets pharmacy apart from other healthcare professions because it shows that you have a good understanding of the role that pharmacy technicians play in the healthcare system. Additionally, being able to talk about the unique aspects of pharmacy can help you stand out from other candidates during an interview.
Example: “I think there are a few things that set pharmacy apart from other healthcare professions. First, pharmacy is a science-based profession, and I think that gives us a unique perspective on disease and treatment. Second, pharmacists are medication experts, and we are often able to provide patients with information and guidance that other healthcare providers may not be able to. Finally, I think our focus on patient care sets us apart from other professions. We are always working to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care, and I think that commitment sets us apart from other healthcare professions.”
What do you think are the most important skills for a pharmacy technician?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer would ask this question. First, they want to see if the pharmacy technician understands what the job entails. Second, they want to see if the pharmacy technician has the necessary skills to perform the job. Third, they want to see if the pharmacy technician is able to identify the most important skills for the job. This is important because it shows that the pharmacy technician is able to prioritize and understand what is most important for the job.
Example: “The most important skills for a pharmacy technician are:
-Accuracy and attention to detail
-The ability to follow instructions
-The ability to work under pressure
-The ability to work independently
-The ability to multitask”
What do you think are the biggest challenges faced by pharmacy technicians?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the applicant's understanding of the challenges faced by pharmacy technicians. It is important for the interviewer to understand the applicant's knowledge of the challenges faced by pharmacy technicians in order to determine if the applicant is a good fit for the position.
Example: “The biggest challenges faced by pharmacy technicians are:
1. Ensuring accuracy and quality in the dispensing of medications
2. Maintaining inventory levels and ordering of medications and supplies
3. Dealing with insurance companies and third-party payers
4. Providing excellent customer service”
What do you think are the biggest benefits of working as a pharmacy technician?
One of the reasons an interviewer might ask this question is to gauge whether the pharmacy technician understands the role they play in the larger healthcare system. As pharmacy technicians are often the first point of contact for patients, it is important that they be able to articulate the benefits of their work. Additionally, this question allows the interviewer to get a sense of the pharmacy technician's motivations for working in this field.
Example: “The biggest benefits of working as a pharmacy technician are the ability to help people in need and the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference in people's lives. As a pharmacy technician, you will be responsible for providing medication and other healthcare products to patients. You will also be responsible for ensuring that medications are dispensed correctly and in a timely manner. In addition, you will often be the first point of contact for patients when they have questions or concerns about their medications.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to improve patient care?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a certified pharmacy technician. First, it shows that the interviewer is interested in how the technician can help improve patient care. This is important because it shows that the interviewer is looking for ways to improve the quality of care that patients receive. Second, it allows the interviewer to gauge the technician's level of knowledge and experience in the field. This is important because it helps to determine whether or not the technician is qualified to provide care to patients. Finally, it gives the interviewer an opportunity to learn more about the technician's personal beliefs and values regarding patient care. This is important because it helps to ensure that the technician is a good fit for the position and that the technician will be able to provide care that is in line with the organization's values.
Example: “There are many things that pharmacy technicians can do to improve patient care, but one of the most important is to ensure accuracy and completeness in the dispensing of medications. This includes verifying that the correct medication is being dispensed, checking for drug interactions, and ensuring that the patient understands how to take the medication correctly. Pharmacy technicians can also play a key role in educating patients about their medications and working with them to ensure that they are taking their medications as prescribed.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to improve their own professional development?
The interviewer is asking this question to gauge the interviewee's commitment to professional development and their ability to identify areas in which they can improve. It is important for pharmacy technicians to continuously develop their skills and knowledge in order to provide the best possible care to patients.
Example: “There are a few things pharmacy technicians can do to improve their professional development. Firstly, they can keep up to date with the latest developments in pharmacy practice and technology. Secondly, they can participate in continuing education and training programs to maintain and improve their skills. Finally, they can get involved in professional organizations and networks to stay connected with other professionals in the field.”
What do you think are the most important things that pharmacy technicians can do to improve communication with patients?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question to a certified pharmacy technician. First, it is important for pharmacy technicians to be able to communicate effectively with patients in order to provide them with the best possible care. Second, effective communication can help to build trust and rapport between the pharmacy technician and the patient. Finally, good communication skills can help to ensure that patients understand their medication regimens and are able to follow them correctly.
Example: “There are several things that pharmacy technicians can do to improve communication with patients. First, they can make sure that they are clear and concise when communicating with patients. Second, they can make sure to listen to patients carefully and ask questions if they have any confusion. Third, they can be respectful and professional when interacting with patients. Finally, they can follow up with patients after their visit to ensure that they understand all of the instructions and information that was provided to them.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to build relationships with pharmacists?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, it can help them gauge the technician's level of experience and understanding of the pharmacy industry. Second, it can give them insight into the technician's communication and interpersonal skills. Finally, it can help them determine whether the technician is a good fit for their organization.
Building relationships with pharmacists is important because it helps create a positive working environment and ensures that patients receive the best possible care. When technicians have good relationships with pharmacists, they are able to collaborate more effectively and make sure that everyone is on the same page. This can lead to fewer errors, better patient outcomes, and a more efficient workflow.
Example: “There are a few things pharmacy technicians can do to build relationships with pharmacists. First, they can be sure to complete all tasks assigned to them accurately and in a timely manner. Second, they can ask questions when they are unsure of something and take the time to listen to the pharmacist's answers. Third, they can be friendly and professional with both pharmacists and patients.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to promote themselves as experts in their field?
There are a few reasons why an interviewer might ask this question. First, it allows the interviewer to gauge the pharmacy technician's level of expertise. Second, it allows the interviewer to get a sense of the technician's priorities and how they align with the goals of the organization. Finally, it provides the interviewer with an opportunity to learn about the technician's professional development goals.
It is important for pharmacy technicians to be able to promote themselves as experts in their field in order to advance their careers and build trust with patients. When pharmacy technicians are able to effectively promote themselves, it shows that they are confident in their abilities and are dedicated to their profession. Additionally, promoting oneself as an expert can help pharmacy technicians stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or seeking advancement opportunities.
Example: “There are a few things pharmacy technicians can do to promote themselves as experts in their field:
1. Stay up to date on the latest developments in pharmacy technology and practice. This can be done by attending conferences and seminars, reading trade publications, and taking continuing education courses.
2. Become certified by a nationally recognized organization, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). This demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills required to be a competent pharmacy technician.
3. Get involved in professional organizations, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), which offer networking opportunities and provide resources for staying current in the profession.
4. Maintain a high level of customer service. This includes being courteous and professional with patients, answering questions thoroughly and accurately, and taking the time to resolve any issues that may arise.
5. Be an advocate for pharmacy technicians. This means educating others about what pharmacy technicians do and how they contribute to the delivery of safe and effective patient care.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to stay current on new developments in pharmacy?
The interviewer is asking this question to gauge the interviewee's commitment to staying up-to-date on new developments in pharmacy. It is important for certified pharmacy technicians to stay current on new developments in pharmacy so that they can provide the best possible care to their patients.
Example: “There are a few things that pharmacy technicians can do to stay current on new developments in pharmacy:
1. Stay up-to-date on new medications and developments in pharmacotherapy by reading journals such as Drug Topics, Pharmacy Times, and American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy.
2. Attend continuing education (CE) events, such as webinars, conferences, and seminars.
3. Get involved with professional organizations, such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP).
4. Use technology to stay informed, such as subscribing to RSS feeds from pharmacy websites and following social media accounts for news updates.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to maintain their certification?
The most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to maintain their certification is to keep up with the latest changes in pharmacy laws and regulations. It is also important to stay current on new medications and their side effects.
Example: “There are a few things that pharmacy technicians can do to maintain their certification, but the most important thing is to keep up with continuing education. By staying current on new developments in the field, pharmacy technicians can ensure that they are providing the best possible care to their patients.”
What do you think is the most important thing that pharmacy technicians can do to advance their careers?
The interviewer is trying to gauge the interviewee's level of ambition and motivation in regards to their career. It is important to know if the person is looking to advance their career in order to make sure they are a good fit for the position.
Example: “There are many things pharmacy technicians can do to advance their careers, but the most important thing is to get certified. Certification demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your job effectively. It also shows that you are committed to your career and are willing to invest in your professional development.”