New report predicts growth in pharmacy technician employment

WASHINGTON A new report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated employment for pharmacy technicians will grow much faster than for the average occupation -- up to a 32% increase by 2016.

Certified pharmacy technicians are an integral part of the pharmacy team and are relied upon to deliver vital services from assisting with the medication dispensing process, to making IV sterile products, to working in a pharmacist-run specialty clinic.

Such nation certification programs as The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board have developed a program that is endorsed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, the American Pharmacists Association and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, for those who seek a career in this field.

"PTCB certification shows a commitment to excellence on the part of the Certified Pharmacy Technician and the employers who require PTCB certification," said Melissa Murer Corrigan, RPh, executive director and CEO of PTCB. "We applaud the efforts of CPhTs who are dedicated to being trained, tested and trusted."

In line with the certification is the ExCPT exam, which also confers national certification for pharmacy technicians interested in receiving the CPht credential. The ExCPT exam is offered on-demand in over 550 locations throughout the United States. It is an option endorsed by the NACDS and NCPA, that is also accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. More information on the ExCPT can be found at www.nationaltechexam.org.