Final answer:
Pharmacy technicians support pharmacists in medication dispensing and management, requiring knowledge in chemistry and biology. They must meet state-specific educational and licensure requirements and perform tasks such as inventory control, patient information management, and customer service under direct supervision.
Step-by-step explanation:
The requirements for a pharmacy technician working in either an outpatient or inpatient pharmacy involve performing duties that support the role of a pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians are essential team members in the delivery of healthcare, often acting as a bridge between patients and pharmacists. They must be knowledgeable in various aspects of medication handling and need to understand and comply with pharmaceutical procedures and regulations. Duties include inventory management, medication dispensing under the supervision of a pharmacist, managing patient information, and providing customer service. While specific requirements vary by state and country, most positions require a high school diploma and completion of a formal training program or certification. Compliance with state-specific licensing or certification requirements is also typically necessary.
Pharmacy technicians must have a solid foundation in both chemistry and biology to understand medication effects and support the pharmacist's role in advising on drug selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects. Working under the direct supervision of pharmacists, they ensure the proper distribution and administration of medications to patients. This aligns with pharmacists' responsibility to dispense drugs prescribed by doctors, where they apply their knowledge of chemistry and biology to contribute to patient health and medication management in various medical facilities such as drugstores and hospitals.