Final answer:
To be certified as a pharmacy technician, an individual must typically complete a recognized training program and pass an examination. Pharmacists, on the other hand, dispense medication and require a doctorate in pharmacy along with a state license, coupled with knowledge in chemistry and biology for effective patient care.
Step-by-step explanation:
Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians
To be certified as a pharmacy technician, an individual must meet certain educational and qualification standards set by the board. This often includes completing a recognized pharmacy technician training program and passing a relevant exam. However, the role of a pharmacy technician is separate from that of a pharmacist, who is responsible for dispensing drugs prescribed by a doctor and must hold a doctorate in pharmacy and be licensed by the state in which they work.
Pharmacists require extensive knowledge in chemistry and biology to comprehend the effects of drugs on the body. In addition to dispensing medication, they advise physicians and patients on the selection, dosage, and potential interactions and side effects of drugs. While pharmacists traditionally did a lot of drug compounding, the modern role is more focused on the application of scientific knowledge to ensure patient health and effective medication management.