Kansas, a state located in the Midwestern United States, is home to a thriving healthcare industry that includes numerous pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. For individuals interested in pursuing a career in pharmacy technology, obtaining a Kansas pharmacy tech license is a crucial step. In this article, we will outline the 5 steps to get a Kansas pharmacy tech license, highlighting the requirements, procedures, and benefits of becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Kansas.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To apply for a Kansas pharmacy tech license, you must meet the basic requirements set by the Kansas Board of Pharmacy. These requirements include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Possessing a valid government-issued ID
It is essential to note that these requirements may be subject to change, so it's crucial to check with the Kansas Board of Pharmacy for the most up-to-date information.
Step 2: Complete a Pharmacy Technician Training Program
The Kansas Board of Pharmacy requires pharmacy technician candidates to complete a training program approved by the Accreditation Commission for Health Education (ACHE) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP). These programs typically include both classroom and clinical training, covering topics such as pharmacy law, pharmacology, and patient communication.
Some popular pharmacy technician training programs in Kansas include:
- The Pharmacy Technician Program at the University of Kansas Medical Center
- The Pharmacy Technician Training Program at Johnson County Community College
- The Pharmacy Technician Certification Program at Wichita State University
Step 3: Pass the Certification Exam
After completing a pharmacy technician training program, candidates must pass a certification exam to demonstrate their competence in pharmacy technology. The most common certification exam for pharmacy technicians is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
The PTCE exam covers topics such as:
- Pharmacy law and regulations
- Pharmacology and pharmacy operations
- Patient communication and safety
Candidates who pass the PTCE exam will receive the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
Step 4: Apply for the Kansas Pharmacy Tech License
After passing the certification exam, candidates can apply for the Kansas pharmacy tech license through the Kansas Board of Pharmacy. The application process typically involves submitting the following documents:
- A completed application form
- Official transcripts from a pharmacy technician training program
- Proof of certification (CPhT credential)
- A valid government-issued ID
Applicants must also pay a licensing fee, which currently stands at $50.
Step 5: Maintain the Kansas Pharmacy Tech License
To maintain the Kansas pharmacy tech license, technicians must complete continuing education (CE) requirements and adhere to the Kansas Board of Pharmacy's code of ethics.
The CE requirements for pharmacy technicians in Kansas include:
- Completing 20 hours of CE every 2 years
- Ensuring that at least 2 hours of CE are related to pharmacy law and ethics
Technicians must also renew their license every 2 years, paying a renewal fee of $50.
Gallery of Pharmacy Technician Licensing
What is the average salary for a pharmacy technician in Kansas?
+The average salary for a pharmacy technician in Kansas is around $34,000 per year.
How long does it take to complete a pharmacy technician training program?
+Pharmacy technician training programs typically take around 6-12 months to complete.
Is certification required to become a pharmacy technician in Kansas?
+Yes, certification is required to become a pharmacy technician in Kansas. The most common certification is the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.