Missouri is a state with a growing demand for skilled pharmacy technicians. As a pharmacy technician, you play a crucial role in the healthcare system, assisting pharmacists with dispensing medication, managing inventory, and providing exceptional patient care. To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must meet the state's specific requirements and obtain certification. In this article, we will guide you through the process of becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri.
Missouri Pharmacy Technician License Requirements
To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a pharmacy technician license in Missouri.
- Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: You must complete a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Missouri Board of Pharmacy.
- Certification: You must pass a certification exam, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) exam.
- Background Check: You must undergo a background check through the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Missouri Pharmacy Technician Certification
Certification is an essential step in becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri. The two most recognized certification exams for pharmacy technicians are the PTCB and NHA exams.
- PTCB Exam: The PTCB exam is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and is recognized nationally. To become certified through the PTCB, you must meet the eligibility requirements, pass the certification exam, and complete continuing education requirements to maintain certification.
- NHA Exam: The NHA exam is administered by the National Healthcareer Association and is also recognized nationally. To become certified through the NHA, you must meet the eligibility requirements, pass the certification exam, and complete continuing education requirements to maintain certification.
Missouri Pharmacy Technician License Application Process
To apply for a pharmacy technician license in Missouri, follow these steps:
- Meet the eligibility requirements, including age, education, and training.
- Complete a pharmacy technician training program approved by the Missouri Board of Pharmacy.
- Pass a certification exam, such as the PTCB or NHA exam.
- Submit an application to the Missouri Board of Pharmacy, including the required fee and supporting documentation.
- Undergo a background check through the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the FBI.
- Receive your pharmacy technician license from the Missouri Board of Pharmacy.
Missouri Pharmacy Technician License Renewal
To maintain your pharmacy technician license in Missouri, you must renew it every two years. To renew your license, follow these steps:
- Complete the required continuing education hours, including 2 hours of pharmacy law and 2 hours of patient safety.
- Submit an application to the Missouri Board of Pharmacy, including the required fee and supporting documentation.
- Verify your certification status with the PTCB or NHA.
- Receive your renewed pharmacy technician license from the Missouri Board of Pharmacy.
Missouri Pharmacy Technician Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians in Missouri is $34,610. The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Missouri is promising, with a projected growth rate of 12% from 2020 to 2030.
Missouri Pharmacy Technician Job Opportunities
As a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri, you can find job opportunities in various settings, including:
- Retail pharmacies
- Hospital pharmacies
- Clinical pharmacies
- Long-term care facilities
- Mail-order pharmacies
Gallery of Missouri Pharmacy Technician License Requirements
FAQs
What are the requirements for a pharmacy technician license in Missouri?
+To become a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must meet the age, education, and training requirements, pass a certification exam, and submit an application to the Missouri Board of Pharmacy.
How do I become certified as a pharmacy technician in Missouri?
+To become certified as a pharmacy technician in Missouri, you must pass a certification exam, such as the PTCB or NHA exam, and meet the eligibility requirements.
What is the job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Missouri?
+The job outlook for pharmacy technicians in Missouri is promising, with a projected growth rate of 12% from 2020 to 2030.
In conclusion, becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri requires meeting the state's specific requirements, obtaining certification, and maintaining your license through continuing education. With a promising job outlook and various job opportunities, becoming a licensed pharmacy technician in Missouri can be a rewarding and challenging career.