With a reported 7% growth rate anticipated over the next 7 years (2 % higher than other occupations), and an ability to train and certify to secure higher salary rates, pharmacy technician is a stellar career option for those looking for success while helping others.
Pharmacists are an integral part of this country’s healthcare system. As the ones to dispense prescriptions, they need to ensure that patients take their medications as prescribed so that they don’t have adverse reactions. They are there to answer patients’ questions, advise on healthcare topics and encourage wellness strategies.
But pharmacists aren’t the only people working behind the counter to help patients get the right medications. Pharmacy technicians also play a vital role in helping patients stay healthy. And with that faster-than-average job growth rate, a career as a pharmacy technician offers the opportunity to work in an essential and growing part of healthcare. Let us tell you more.
The Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry develops drugs that treat or prevent every type of condition imaginable, such as influenza, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hepatitis, and Parkinson’s disease to name a few.
In Pakistan and aborad, the pharmaceutical sector is one of the most innovative industries, composed of companies developing and manufacturing inventive medicines and generic pharmaceuticals, as well as over–the-counter drug products. Being a part of this industry, can offer rewarding and exciting career challenges.
The Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians fill and label prescriptions, which the pharmacist will later check for accuracy. Technicians also assemble, measure and mix medications, organize and maintain medication inventories, operate automated dispensing equipment to fill orders and consult with pharmacists about drug interactions and reactions. Pharmacy technicians are also permitted to accept verbal prescriptions (with the exception of narcotics, controlled drugs, benzodiazepines, and targeted substances) and provide prescription transfers.
Pharmacy technicians can be employed in retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, long-term care facilities and by pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Pharmacy technicians are not to be confused with pharmacy assistants, who focus on clerical duties by answering phones, maintaining patient files, packaging shipments for patients, and arranging for customers to speak with the pharmacist if they have questions.
Regulated
Pharmacy technicians in Pakistan are regulated by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), ensuring professional standards and patient safety. Certification programs are available at various institutes, equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Longer Training, Higher Earning Potential
Compared to pharmacy assistants, pharmacy technicians undergo longer training, leading to better career prospects and higher earning potential. The average salary for a registered pharmacy technician in Pakistan is Rs. 25,000-35,000 per month, depending on experience and location.
Promising Job Growth
The demand for qualified pharmacy technicians is expected to increase significantly in the coming years due to the growing healthcare needs and expanding pharmaceutical industry.
Get a Pharmacy Technician Diploma at Focus Instite of Medical Sciences
The Focus Institute’s Pharmacy Technician Diploma is accredited by the Pharmacy Council of Pakistan. As a graduate of this program, you will be eligible to complete the necessary steps to become a regulated pharmacy technician in Pakistan. Regulation is mandatory to work as a pharmacy technician in any pharmacy in Pakistan. Some of the areas of study you will cover during the program include: human body in health and disease; pharmacology; medical devices, natural health and OTC products; pharmacy law and ethics; community, long-term care and hospital pharmacy practices; management and inventory control; and, professionalism in pharmacy practice.
