Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program | CPhT Online Training
Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program offered by We Care Online is a comprehensive and convenient online course designed to equip potential pharmacy technicians with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in their profession. Geared towards individuals across all states, this program adheres to the highest educational standards of the PTCB and provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of pharmaceutical practice.
Throughout the course, students will gain an understanding of drug classifications, dosage calculations, drug interactions, medication safety, and pharmacy law and ethics. The interactive online platform enables learners to study at their own pace, making it an ideal choice for those with busy schedules or looking to advance their careers in a time-efficient manner.
Led by an experienced instructor, the Certified Pharmacy Technician Program integrates real-world scenarios and practical exercises to ensure students are well-prepared to handle the challenges of their future roles. Additionally, the course includes opportunities for hands-on externship, further enhancing the learning experience.
By successfully completing this program, students will not only be equipped to pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) but will also be equipped with the expertise needed to excel in various pharmacy settings, including retail, hospital, and long-term care facilities.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey in the pharmaceutical field or seeking to enhance your current skills, the Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program from We Care Online Classes is an excellent choice to achieve your career aspirations in the world of pharmacy.
Details
The Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program offered by We Care Online Classes is a comprehensive and high-quality online course designed to prepare individuals for a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician. This program is carefully curated to meet the diverse needs of students across all states and equips them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the dynamic pharmaceutical industry.
The course involves 160 Clock Hours of online training (on your own schedule), and 16 Clock Hours of hands-on experience in a pharmacy externship of your choice.
This course is recognized by the PTCB as an eligible pathway to become a Certified Pharma Tech (CPhT). The course offers helpful PTCB examination review so you’ll be ready to pass the national certifying exam.
We also provide information on career opportunities for pharma techs and advice on getting a job and advancing in the profession.
This course is approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.
Course Structure and Curriculum: The course spans a well-structured curriculum, delivered through an intuitive online platform, allowing students to access study materials at their convenience. The program covers a wide range of topics essential for pharmacy practice, including:
- Pharmaceutical Fundamentals: Students gain an understanding of the history of pharmacy, drug development processes, drug classifications, and the role of a pharmacy technician within the healthcare system.
- Pharmacy Law and Ethics: A crucial aspect of pharmacy practice, this module explores federal and state regulations, drug schedules, and ethical considerations in handling patient information and medication.
- Medication Safety and Dosage Calculations: Students learn how to accurately calculate dosages, dispense medications safely, and prevent medication errors through best practices and protocols.
- Pharmacology: Detailed insights into how drugs interact with the body, common drug actions, and potential side effects help students grasp the clinical implications of pharmaceuticals.
- Pharmacy Operations and Inventory Management: Understanding pharmacy workflow, inventory control, and prescription processing prepares students to efficiently manage pharmacy operations.
- Medication Compounding and Sterile Techniques: This section introduces students to aseptic techniques and compounding medications for various patient needs.
- Medication Therapy Management: Students learn to interpret prescriptions, counsel patients on medication use, and identify potential drug interactions.
Interactive Learning Experience: We Care Online Classes provides a dynamic and interactive learning environment. Engaging multimedia content, interactive quizzes, and simulated scenarios offer practical application of theoretical knowledge. Students can participate in discussions with instructors and peers, gaining insights from experienced professionals and networking with fellow learners.
Experienced Instructors: The program is led by industry-experienced instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge to the virtual classroom. They provide personalized attention to each student, offer guidance, and share real-world experiences, making the learning process engaging and relevant.
Flexibility and Accessibility: The online format allows students to tailor their study schedules to suit their commitments, whether they are working professionals or full-time students. The self-paced nature of the course ensures that individuals can learn at a comfortable speed and revisit complex topics when needed.
Certification and Career Opportunities: Upon successful completion of the Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program, students are equipped to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). Achieving certification enhances employability and opens doors to a variety of pharmacy settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies.
The Certified Pharmacy Technician Training Program offered by We Care Online Classes is a comprehensive and flexible online course that prepares students for a successful career as a pharmacy technician. With its in-depth curriculum, interactive learning experience, externship, and experienced instructors, this program provides the necessary tools for students to excel in the pharmaceutical industry and contribute to patient care with professionalism and confidence.
Syllabus
Content of our Pharmacy Technician Certification Course
Course Content and Schedule
Unit 1
1: History of Medicine and Pharmacy
2: Pharmacy Law, Ethics, and Regulatory Agencies
3: Competencies, Associations, and Settings for Technicians
Unit 2
4: Communication and Role of the Technician with the Customer/Patient
5: Dosage Forms and Routes of Administration
6: Conversions and Calculations
7: Drug Information References
Unit 3
8: Community Pharmacy Practice
9: Institutional Pharmacy Practice
10: Additional Pharmacy Practice Settings
11: Bulk Repackaging and Non-Sterile Compounding
12: Aseptic Technique and Sterile Compounding
13: Pharmacy Billing and Inventory Management
14: Medication Safety and Error Prevention
Unit 4
15: Therapeutic Agents for the Nervous System
16: Therapeutic Agents for the Endocrine System
17: Therapeutic Agents for the Musculoskeletal System
18: Therapeutic Agents for the Cardiovascular System
19: Therapeutic Agents for the Respiratory System
Unit 5
20: Therapeutic Agents for the Gastrointestinal System
21: Therapeutic Agents for the Renal System
22: Therapeutic Agents for the Reproductive System
23: Therapeutic Agents for the Immune System
Unit 6
24: Therapeutic Agents for the Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat
25: Therapeutic Agents for the Dermatological System
26: Therapeutic Agents for the Hematological System
27: Over-the Counter (OTC) Medications
28: Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
What you can expect to have learned when completing the course
Upon completion of this course, you should:
• Possess a working knowledge of basic pharmacology.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a Pharmacy Technician including law and ethical guidelines for practice.
• Possess a working knowledge of the classifications of drugs.
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of routes of administration, dosage forms, and drug dosages.
• Possess a working knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the human body.
• Demonstrate the ability to perform essential functions relating to inventory control and purchasing.
• Possess a working knowledge of procedures and techniques relating to aseptic technique, compounding, and parenteral dosage preparation.
• Demonstrate the ability to distinguish between trade and generic names of drugs and abbreviations used in pharmacy practice.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the procedures and operations relating to the manufacturing, packaging, and labeling of drugs.
How will you be taught the course?
We use multiple methods of instruction to help you gain the knwoledge you need to pass the PTCE and be operational as a Pharmacy Tech when hired:
• Threaded discussions
• Didactic questions
• Practice exercises and interactive games
• Lecture materials
• Assignments, and
• Links to various studies
Instructor
ADRIENNE LAMBERT, PHARMD
- alambert@wecareonlineclasses.com
- 888-932-2501 ext 119
Adrienne Lambert has been deeply committed to the healthcare field for over three decades. Her journey in healthcare began in the early 90s when she started her career as an occupational therapist, specializing in hand therapy. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she met a physical therapy student during her senior year in engineering school. Intrigued by the holistic approach of occupational therapy, Adrienne made a courageous decision to switch her career path, embarking on a lifelong mission to promote the health and well-being of individuals.
One of the primary reasons Adrienne was attracted to healthcare was the opportunity to focus on the comprehensive health of individuals. The scope of practice in occupational therapy resonated with her, as it allowed her to address not just physical ailments but also consider the overall well-being of her patients. This dedication to patient-centered care has been a defining aspect of her professional journey.
Throughout her career, Adrienne has developed a diverse set of professional specialties. Currently, she works at an orthopedic surgical hospital, where she covers pharmacy-related matters. Additionally, she is involved in the Women’s and Babies Hospital with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Her expertise extends beyond these facilities, as she also provides remote coverage for other hospitals within the system during evenings and nights. Adrienne’s dedication to her profession and her unique training in pharmacy make her a valuable asset to the healthcare institutions she serves.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Adrienne cherishes her family life. She has two grown children, one of whom works as an athletic trainer, while the other excels in computer drawing. Alongside her husband, Adrienne enjoys cycling, an activity that keeps them physically active and connected to nature. Additionally, the couple volunteers at their church’s nursery, where they work with young children, making it a joyful and rewarding experience.
Reflecting on her long and illustrious career, Adrienne wishes she had received one valuable piece of advice when she first entered the healthcare field: to embrace the learning process and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Her experience has taught her that acquiring knowledge and expertise is a continuous journey, and she encourages others to remain curious and open-minded.
At WeCareOnline, Adrienne plays a crucial role in facilitating the pharmacy technician course. She uses her extensive experience and expertise to answer questions and provide valuable insights during discussions. By doing so, she contributes significantly to students’ learning experiences, ensuring they receive the best online education possible.
Adrienne Lambert’s remarkable dedication to the healthcare field, her commitment to holistic patient care, and her tireless efforts to educate and support aspiring pharmacy technicians exemplify her outstanding contributions to the healthcare community. Through her continued efforts, she remains a beacon of inspiration for both her peers and the students she guides at WeCareOnline.
Faq
SECTION I – General Questions
We hope to answer some of your questions below. These answers are based on questions we receive from students everyday.
We Care Online does not use transferrable credits. We use clock/contact hours. These are not transferrable.
Yes, the only in-person activity is when the student is expected to obtain an externship site and participate in the observation of a pharmacy environment such as retail, hospital, specialty pharmacy, etc.
Yes. There is a textbook and a workbook that accompany the course and can be purchased independently by the student by using the link on this page or through WCO when registering for the class.
No, this course is strictly for the purpose of meeting the training requirement for applying to take the national certification exam through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. It is important for the student to become familiar with the requirements of the state board of pharmacy in the state in which they plan to work. Check your state requirements here: Click Here
No, this course is designed strictly for the preparation of the student to take the national certification exam. The PTCB exam is separate from this course and must be applied for through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The WCO pharmacy technician course fulfills the requirement for an approved training course in order to apply to take the PTCB exam.
SECTION II – Salary Expectations for a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
The data below were collected from the internet over the past year. They may have changed somewhat as the economy moved and Covid-19 lockdowns are easing up. Remember that salary is only part of your compensation package. A pharmacy chain may offer great medical benefits that complement your salary handsomely, saving you thousands in healthcare costs yearly. Employers may also add commuting expenses as part of their compensation packages, especially in rural areas where qualified labor is not readily available. Consider these factors when reading the data below.
The average salary for a certified pharma tech (CPhT) ranges between $26,000 and $39,000. … A lead pharma tech in a hospital setting can earn anywhere from $14 to $18 per hour.
While these estimates are a good baseline to go off of, keep in mind that the average pay does vary depending on where you live. (May 12, 2019)
The average Target pharma tech yearly pay in the United States is approximately $24,184 (Feb 23, 2021)
5 salaries reported $15/hr
2 salaries reported $12/hr
2 salaries reported $14/hr
1 salary reported $13/hr
(Source: Glassdoor.com)
25th Percentile Salary: $36,236 US
50th Percentile Salary: $40,183 US
75th Percentile Salary: $44,829 US
90th Percentile Salary: $49,060 US
(Source: Salary.com)
Based on average salaries, the states and districts where Pharma Techs are paid the best are: California ($45,200), Alaska ($44,280), Washington ($43,910), District of Columbia ($42,240), and Oregon ($42,160).
(Source: money.usnews.com)
SECTION III – Pharmacy Technician Training Program Online
In this section of our FAQ, we answer common questions related to the practical aspects of the certification training, including the externships available. We also cover questions related to recertification and the validity period of your license. If you want to read directly about the duties and conditions of your next career, skip this section and go to the next.
It depends on your career path. Certification training programs can generally be completed in a year or less, while associate degree programs take closer to two years to complete.
The program is 120 days, and teaches new technicians customer service skills, the business of pharmacy, patient safety, workflow and inventory.
In July 2017, the answer to this question was that it takes 2-5 years to do the training program at Walgreens (if you have no certification training). This is not the same as taking the Course with WeCareOnlineClasses, and doing your externship at Walgreens.
In 2016, CVS was paying for your on-the-job training, web-based training, and classroom training. They paid for your course materials and for your mileage driving to your classroom training. We do not have more current data.
The PTCB requires certified Pharma Techs to recertify every two years. In order to recertify, a technician must complete at least 20 hours of pharma-related continuing education.
(Source: Study.com – Sep 30, 2019)
CPhTs are required by the PCBT to renew their certification every 2 years to maintain their credential. Recertification ensures that CPhTs stay up-to-date in the specialty through the completion of continuing education (CE).
(Source: PTCB.org)
Some states do not require a Pharma Tech license to work in a pharmacy. A Licensed Pharm Tech meets the state’s requirements to work in this setting. … A Certified Pharmacy Technician meets a non-governmental agency’s requirements and passes a national exam to obtain certification.
(Source: Pharmacytraininrx.com)
Becoming a Pharma Tech can be fairly easy as you only need a high school diploma and on-site experience. Becoming a Certified Pharma Tech requires more effort, but the education is worth it. See below the syllabus (content) of our CPhT Training Course.
SECTION IV – The Job of Pharmacy Technician and its prospects
This section is an overview of the prospects of the CPhT profession, and the general duties that will be assigned to you when you are hired by a pharmacy or a hospital. If you are not sure that this is the career for you, read on. We have tried to give you a good overview of what it will look like when you wear those blue scrubs… Remember though that each employer has their own job description and set of rules. The PTCB defines the boundaries of your action, but employers have a lot of freedom in defining your job.
We have covered (in the questions above) your compensation expectations depending on where you are employed.
A Pharma Tech career is also a stable one with ample employment opportunities and increasing demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for this career is bright with an above-average growth rate.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Pharma Techs is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Increased demand for prescription medications will lead to more demand for pharmaceutical services.
There are many reasons to embrace this career, including job security and good pay. Some people are attracted to the profession because it offers a chance to work in the healthcare provider industry without having to perform any clinical duties.
This line of work of can be stressful because accuracy is vital. Incorrectly filled prescriptions, wrong dosages or mislabeled bottles can become serious health risks.
A Pharma Tech is also in direct contact with customers. When they wait in line or wait for their prescription to be filled out, people can become aggravated. This can cause you stress if you do not have people skills.
This career offers advancement opportunities. You can begin in a tech position, but as your career progress you can climb up the ladder or branch out into a different field.
Pharma Techs can earn a number of specialty certifications to qualify for higher-paying positions. They can continue their education to earn their doctoral degree and become a Pharmacist. They can also transition to a different path: pharmaceutical sales, management, or compounding.
• Closed-door pharmacy
• Compound pharmacy
• Hospital pharmacy
• Pharmacy benefit manager
Techs often interact directly with customers, taking personal information and processing payments for prescriptions. Assistants handle more of the administrative side of the pharmacy. They may do some counting of medication or labeling bottles, but they don’t usually prepare the prescriptions for customers.
They work closely with a Pharmacist to ensure the health and safety of their patients. They locate, dispense, pack, and label prescribed medication. This is reviewed for accuracy by a Pharmacist before dispensed to the patient.
They generally wear dark navy blue scrubs.
It is recommended to wear comfortable, skid proof, close-toed shoes. There is a lot of walking back and forth and standing at the counter: your shoes must be comfortable.
Whether working in a retail pharmacy or at a hospital pharmacy, the Pharma Tech assists the Pharmacist in distributing medication to patients. The former may not dispense any medication without the latter’s approval, and may not offer any advice to patients regarding their medications.
Yes. The Technician who completed only the minimal educational requirements will take 6-7 years of schooling in order to obtain a Doctorate and become a licensed Pharmacist.
Your hours may vary from very part-time to full time, depending on your employment location and the hours available at the location.
Yes, it requires basic math.
A Pharma Technician cannot dispense any medication without a Pharmacist’s approval and may not consult any patient regarding their medications.
Yes, they are considered essential healthcare workers.
Pharmacy Technicians can call the patient’s physician’s office regarding prescription refills, but may not take new prescriptions over the phone.
SECTION V – Questions Regarding the PTCB Examination
Because of the heartbreak caused by failing an exam, and also because taking an exam requires long preparation and costs some money, you may be naturally worried about your chances to pass the PTCB examination, and the conditions attached to registering for the exam. This section is an overview of the questions we often get from students who have enrolled in our CPhT training program. Yes, the exam is not very easy, but remember that your WeCareOnlineClasses instructor is fully invested in your success, and the course itself prepares you step by step to this event. Based on our students feedback, we are very confident in the quality of the content of the course, and the way it is delivered to students with very different learning habits and challenges. We want you to feel confident that you will overcome the challenges with the help of our CPhT certification study guide, your classmates and your instructor. Even though you study at home, you are never alone in your progress!
You can schedule a re-take.
Basic math. Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Fractions
It is not easy. But if you study, you should be able to pass easily. The training offered by WeCareOnlineClasses is organized to help you pass the exam. It is gradual and you cover all the knowledge you need to take the Certification exam.
The passing scaled score for the Pharma Tech Certification Exam (PTCE) is 1400, with a range of possible scores of 1000 to 1600.
Due to the use of scaled scoring, the PTCB does not provide a percentage or number of questions that must be answered correctly in order to pass the exam.
Study, study, study! Use the numerous study aides available in our training, and the aides available on the PTCB website.
You have to take a PTCB-approved course before taking the PTCE.
To fully prepare for taking the PTCE, you need books covering at least three topics: Pharmacy procedures and practice; Pharmacy math; and Pharmacology (the study of medications).
In addition, you will want to buy or make two sets of flashcards.
With WeCareOnlineClasses.com, you will need to pay for the class ($1250), the textbooks (approx. $160), and the PTCB exam fee ($129).
We cannot reveal any of the questions, but the Pharma Tech Certification Exam is a 2-hour, multiple-choice exam that contains 90 questions: 80 scored questions and 10 unscored questions. Each question lists four possible answers, only one of which is the correct or best answer.
A calculator is built into the PTCB exam. You can’t use a personal calculator. However, if you request a hand-held calculator and one is available at your test center, you should be permitted to use it.
No, you must take a PTCB-approved course. CPhT applicants who are within 60 days of completing a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program are eligible to take the PTCE.
However, CPhT Certification will not be granted until you provide the PTCB with a proof of education/training completion.
You need to know the Certification Course content regarding: Medications; Federal Requirements; Patient Safety and Quality Assurance; and Order Entry and Processing.
Requirements
Prerequisites of the course:
- Student must be 18 years old to enroll.
- Each student is responsible for acquiring their externship site – Walgreens agreement is available.
- The PTCB requires a High School diploma or equivalent to sit for the exam. For further requirements, Click Here
- Check the Pharmacy Technician requirements for your State before signing up for this class.
Enrollment Options:
Course Information:
- Clock Hours: 176
- Prerequisite: None
- Price: $1260.00
- Prices subject to change without notice
- Certificate of Completion
- Refund, Payment Plan, and Other Policies
- How To Register For This Class: Click Here
- Are Online Classes For You?
Additional Charge for:
- Registration Fee
- Textbooks
Book required
Click book to order
- Textbook
- Workbook
