There is a significant difference between the jobs of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, despite the fact that they collaborate to maintain the health and wellbeing of clients. Pharmacy technicians are not permitted by law to offer medical advice, although pharmacists are authorized to do so in the course of their work. In order to communicate effectively with other people, if you work in a pharmacy you will need to be aware of the constraints that come with your position.
When talking with clients, there are certain things that are appropriate to say and others that should be avoided at all costs. Providing guidance on matters pertaining to medications: No! It is against the law for pharmacy technicians to provide consumers with medical advice about prescriptions, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements.
This is due to the fact that pharmacy technicians do not go through the same medical training as pharmacists. In the event that you come across a query of this nature, you need to either transmit it to the pharmacist or give the client a mechanism to get in touch with the pharmacist in the event that he or she is not accessible.
Although it isn’t always easy to tell where common knowledge ends and specialist pharmaceutical knowledge begins, it’s always preferable to err on the side of caution and let the pharmacist handle the counseling responsibilities.
You are, nevertheless, permitted to advise consumers that you are unable to provide assistance due to legal restrictions. Providing definitions and other information that is easily accessible: Yes, but you need to be careful. Customers may frequently inquire as to the meaning of a certain phrase that appears on their prescription, as well as the names of the various brands of medication that you have in your inventory.
You don’t need the assistance of the pharmacist to provide answers to these questions. When you go to get your prescription refilled, you might be asked for some general information regarding the drug you’re taking.
However, if a consumer asks about the effects of a certain component or which brand you think is best, you should direct them to the pharmacist for more information. Admitting that you do not have the necessary expertise: Yes It is completely acceptable to let them know that you do not have the necessary training to offer medical advice.
- They will appreciate your care for their health and safety, as well as the fact that you are not sending them to the pharmacy out of laziness, and they will realize that you are not;
- It is a courteous action that has the potential to boost the pharmacy’s business as well as its reputation;
Providing information in accordance with the pharmacist’s instructions Yes, but you need to be careful. If the pharmacist is pressed for time, they can ask you to communicate with one of their customers on their behalf. Because this information was provided to you by a certified pharmacist who also gave you permission to share it with others, doing so is completely safe.
If you wish to provide accurate information to the consumer after speaking with the pharmacist, you should probably write down the pharmacist’s precise remarks. It may be difficult to refrain from giving counsel, but keep in mind that the customer’s well-being and your professional reputation are on the line.
It is in your best interest to entrust this matter to the pharmacist. Are you still unclear about the kind of things that you may and cannot say in your role as a pharmacy technician? The certified online pharmacy technician curriculum that Penn Foster offers may assist you in gaining a better understanding of your duties and limits, as well as assist you in taking the initial steps toward working in this satisfying sector.
What are some hard skills a pharmacy technician?
Do you have aspirations of becoming a pharmacy technician? Find out more about the training you will undergo as part of the Pharmacy Technology program, including the courses you will study and the training you will receive to prepare you for a career working in a pharmacy. A Pharmacy Technology Program will teach students these 6 skills, which are necessary for a successful career as a pharmacy technician. The ability to think critically, communicate effectively, organize one’s thoughts, use computers, be proficient in mathematics, and solve problems are the six talents that make up this set.
Because of these abilities, the pharmacy technician will be able to provide assistance to patients while also providing support to the Pharmacist. Mathematical Capability — The majority of training programs for Pharmacy Technicians include at least one college-level math class.
When it comes to filling prescriptions and weighing medications, the math skills of the pharmacy technician will come in very helpful. In addition, a pharmacy technician will apply collegiate mathematics while placing orders, stocking shelves, and packing prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, as well as when doing inventory management and keeping records.
- Ability to Communicate Both Verbally and in Writing Pharmacy Technicians deal directly with patients and pharmacists, thus it is essential for them to be able to communicate well in both formats in order to provide excellent customer service;
Organizational skills are necessary for a pharmacy technician since they are responsible for ensuring that prescriptions are filled correctly, managing inventory, and keeping accurate records. When it comes to packaging and labeling medications, organizational abilities will come in handy.
- Computer Skills – In the course of carrying out one’s tasks as a pharmacy technician, a few different kinds of computer systems could be called into action;
- There is a computer system that can assist with counting the tablets to ensure that the appropriate quantity of medication is included in each prescription;
A computer interface will be utilized by the pharmacy technician in order to input consumer data and process insurance claims. One of the most important skills for a pharmacy technician to have is the ability to use computers and to quickly pick up new software applications.
Critical Thinking A pharmacy technician is required to approach their work in a manner that is consistent and methodical in order to maintain the accuracy of client record data and prescriptions. Problem Solving A pharmacy technician must be able to address any problem that may develop with insurance claims and patients’ prescriptions.
For example, whether billing is erroneous or medicines are not available, a pharmacy technician must be able to fix the issue. It is possible for a consumer to bring an issue to the pharmacy technician and demand a definitive solution; in this case, the pharmacy technician will need to have strong problem-solving abilities in order to discover the best answer.
After completing the Pharmacy Technology Program at Daymar College, the career services department is able to assist you in locating a position in which you may put your newly acquired knowledge and abilities to use.
Pharmacy technicians could work behind the counter in places like pharmacies and drug shops, hospitals, grocery stores, general goods stores, or department stores, among other retail establishments.