As a pharmacy technician in the Army, you play a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of soldiers and their families. Your duties may include dispensing medication, managing inventory, and assisting pharmacists with various tasks. To succeed in this role, you'll need a combination of technical skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities. Here are six ways to help you excel as a pharmacy tech in the Army:
Understand the Army's Pharmacy System
To succeed as a pharmacy tech in the Army, it's essential to understand the Military Health System (MHS) and the Army's pharmacy system. Familiarize yourself with the Army's pharmacy regulations, policies, and procedures. Learn about the different types of pharmacy operations, including inpatient, outpatient, and deployed pharmacies.
Key Components of the Army's Pharmacy System
- Pharmacy operations: Understand the different types of pharmacy operations, including inpatient, outpatient, and deployed pharmacies.
- Medication management: Learn about the Army's medication management system, including the use of automated dispensing cabinets and barcoding.
- Inventory management: Understand the importance of accurate inventory management and how to use the Army's inventory management system.
Develop Strong Technical Skills
As a pharmacy tech in the Army, you'll need to develop strong technical skills to perform your duties efficiently. Focus on developing skills in the following areas:
Technical Skills for Pharmacy Techs
- Medication dispensing: Learn how to accurately dispense medication using automated dispensing cabinets and other technology.
- Inventory management: Develop skills in inventory management, including the use of the Army's inventory management system.
- Pharmacy software: Learn how to use the Army's pharmacy software, including the Composite Health Care System (CHCS) and the Pharmacy Data Transaction Service (PDTS).
Improve Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is critical in any healthcare setting, including Army pharmacies. Develop strong communication skills to interact with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Focus on developing skills in the following areas:
Communication Skills for Pharmacy Techs
- Patient communication: Learn how to communicate effectively with patients, including those with limited English proficiency.
- Interprofessional communication: Develop skills in communicating with pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Conflict resolution: Learn how to resolve conflicts in a professional and respectful manner.
Stay Current with Continuing Education
As a pharmacy tech in the Army, it's essential to stay current with the latest developments in pharmacy practice. Take advantage of continuing education opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge. Focus on developing skills in the following areas:
Continuing Education for Pharmacy Techs
- Medication safety: Learn about the latest medication safety initiatives and how to implement them in your practice.
- Pharmacy law and ethics: Develop skills in understanding pharmacy law and ethics, including the Army's pharmacy regulations and policies.
- Emerging technologies: Learn about emerging technologies in pharmacy practice, including the use of automation and artificial intelligence.
Join Professional Organizations
Joining professional organizations is an excellent way to network with other pharmacy techs, stay current with the latest developments in pharmacy practice, and enhance your skills and knowledge. Consider joining organizations such as the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Seek Mentorship and Leadership Opportunities
Seeking mentorship and leadership opportunities can help you advance your career as a pharmacy tech in the Army. Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support, and seek out leadership opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.
Leadership Opportunities for Pharmacy Techs
- Leadership roles: Seek out leadership roles in your pharmacy or healthcare organization, such as a team lead or supervisor.
- Professional development: Take advantage of professional development opportunities, such as courses or certifications, to enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Mentoring: Consider mentoring junior pharmacy techs to develop their skills and knowledge.
What are the requirements to become a pharmacy tech in the Army?
+To become a pharmacy tech in the Army, you'll need to meet the Army's basic requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 35, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. You'll also need to complete the Army's pharmacy technician training program and obtain certification from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP).
What are the duties of a pharmacy tech in the Army?
+As a pharmacy tech in the Army, your duties may include dispensing medication, managing inventory, and assisting pharmacists with various tasks. You may also be responsible for maintaining patient records, processing prescriptions, and providing patient education.
How long does it take to become a pharmacy tech in the Army?
+The length of time it takes to become a pharmacy tech in the Army varies depending on your individual circumstances. However, the Army's pharmacy technician training program typically takes several months to complete. After completing the program, you'll need to obtain certification from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), which may take an additional few months.
In conclusion, succeeding as a pharmacy tech in the Army requires a combination of technical skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities. By following these six ways to succeed, you can excel in your role and provide high-quality patient care. Remember to stay current with continuing education, join professional organizations, and seek mentorship and leadership opportunities to advance your career.