Mastering the CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program

Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician? CVS Health offers a comprehensive CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program to equip you with the skills and knowledge you’ll need to excel in this role. In this blog post, we’ll explore the program, the path to becoming a CVS pharmacy technician, the responsibilities of retail pharmacy technicians, career advancement opportunities, and the benefits of working in this rewarding field. Let’s dive in!

Short Summary

The CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program is a comprehensive 120-day program designed to equip new technicians with necessary skills and knowledge.
CVS Health provides financial support for employees taking the national certification exam, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits.
The company promotes diversity by appointing a Chief Diversity Officer and partnering with community organizations in order to create opportunities for underrepresented communities.

The CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program

Imagine starting a new career with a solid foundation of training and support. That’s what you can expect from the CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program. This 120-day program is designed to immerse new technicians in a comprehensive learning experience, covering:

Customer service skills
An understanding of the business of pharmacy
Patient safety
Pharmacy workflow
Inventory management

The program is a great option for those who search pharmacy technician programs, as it ensures that CVS pharmacy technicians are well-prepared for their role in the company.

CVS Health recognizes the importance of quality training for its pharmacy technicians. This commitment to training ensures that all colleagues are well-equipped to handle their responsibilities and provide exceptional service to patients and customers alike. With a focus on both technical and interpersonal skills, the CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling career.

Find the Best Pharmacy Technician Schools Near Me

CVS Health’s Commitment to Training

CVS Health is dedicated to providing superior training for pharmacy technicians, guaranteeing they are adequately equipped for their duties. One notable initiative is the CVS Registered Apprenticeship Program, which provides job seekers with low incomes with the necessary training and experience to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician. This CVS apprenticeship initiative further demonstrates CVS Health’s dedication to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce.

In addition to the apprenticeship program, CVS Health offers a variety of training opportunities for pharmacy technicians. These include regional training sessions and resources to prepare for the national certification exam. The company’s commitment to employee growth and development ensures that all pharmacy technicians have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed in their roles.

Key Components of the Program

The CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program covers a wide range of topics, ensuring that all technicians have a strong foundation in both technical and interpersonal skills. The program focuses on customer service skills, including communication, problem-solving, and customer service techniques. These skills are essential for providing exceptional care to patients and maintaining a positive work environment.

Pharmacy operations are another key component of the program. Technicians will gain an understanding of pharmacy workflow, medication safety, and pharmacy law. Additionally, the program addresses patient safety by emphasizing the importance of accuracy and safety in the preparation and dispensing of medications. Inventory management is also covered, highlighting the significance of precise inventory tracking and ordering.

By addressing these critical aspects of the pharmacy technician role, the CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program ensures that all technicians are well-prepared to contribute to the success of their pharmacy.

The Path to Becoming a CVS Pharmacy Technician

Aspiring CVS pharmacy technicians must first complete the company’s in-house training program, even if they already possess certification in the field. This comprehensive training ensures that all technicians are well-prepared for their roles at CVS, and it provides a solid foundation for future career growth within the company.

Once the training program is complete, technicians can begin the application process and may be required to complete an apprenticeship program. This hands-on approach to training, combined with support from experienced colleagues and resources for national certification preparation, sets CVS pharmacy technicians up for success in their careers.

Application Process

The application process for aspiring CVS pharmacy technicians begins with submitting an application for a pharmacy technician position. Candidates may need to complete an apprenticeship program, such as the CVS Registered Apprenticeship Program, which offers additional training and support to help technicians succeed in their roles.

The apprenticeship program consists of two components: a classroom training module that covers topics such as customer service, pharmacy operations, patient safety, and inventory management; and an externship, which provides on-the-job, paid training at the candidate’s home store and often culminates in a formal job offer. These components form the foundation of our comprehensive training programs.

This combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience ensures that pharmacy technicians are well-prepared to excel in their roles at CVS.

On-the-Job Training

CVS’s 120-day on-the-job training program is designed to provide new pharmacy technicians with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their roles. During this time, technicians receive hands-on training and support from experienced colleagues, helping them to learn the ropes quickly and effectively.

This training covers a wide range of topics, including:

customer service skills
pharmacy operations
patient safety
other pertinent skills

By providing comprehensive on-the-job training, CVS ensures that all pharmacy technicians are well-equipped to handle their responsibilities and contribute to the success of the company.

National Certification Preparation

CVS Health strongly encourages pharmacy technicians to become nationally certified and provides additional classes, such as regional training sessions, and materials to assist colleagues in preparation for the national exam. CVS Health is providing a great opportunity to its colleagues. They will sponsor eligible employees to take the exam and cover the cost. This support not only demonstrates CVS’s commitment to employee growth and development, but also helps to ensure that all technicians are well-prepared to excel in their roles.

Following certification, the average national hourly wage for a new retail pharmacy technician is reported to be between $11 and $14. This competitive salary, combined with the comprehensive training and support provided by CVS Health, makes pursuing a career as a CVS pharmacy technician an attractive option for those interested in the field.

Retail Pharmacy Technicians at CVS

Retail pharmacy technicians at CVS play a crucial role in the company’s mission to provide exceptional care to patients. Their responsibilities include prescription processing, providing customer service, and administering point-of-care testing and immunizations. These varied tasks require a wide range of skills and knowledge, which are developed through the comprehensive training provided by CVS Health.

In addition to their technical responsibilities, retail pharmacy technicians at CVS also play a vital role in creating a positive and welcoming environment for both patients and coworkers. By providing excellent customer service and demonstrating a commitment to patient safety, pharmacy technicians contribute to the overall success of the company and the well-being of the communities they serve.

Prescription Processing

Pharmacy technicians play a key role in the prescription processing workflow at CVS. They are responsible for:

Locating prescribed medication for patients
Dispensing medication
Packing and labeling medication
Assisting pharmacists with administrative tasks such as processing insurance claims, tracking inventory, and filing paperwork.

By ensuring that prescriptions are processed accurately and efficiently, pharmacy technicians help maintain patient safety and satisfaction. Their responsibilities include:

Processing prescriptions
Counting and measuring medications
Labeling and packaging prescriptions
Assisting pharmacists with inventory management
Providing customer service and answering questions

Their attention to detail and commitment to providing exceptional care make them an invaluable part of the CVS pharmacy team.

Customer Service

Retail pharmacy technicians at CVS are the face of the company, interacting directly with patients and customers on a daily basis. They provide outstanding customer service, addressing:

patient queries
insurance matters
communicating with physicians for refill authorizations
responding to customer inquiries
addressing problems with patients’ insurance coverage

By providing excellent customer service, pharmacy technicians help to create a positive experience for patients and ensure that they receive the care and assistance they need. Their dedication to their patients and their ability to communicate effectively make them an essential part of the CVS Health team.

Point-of-Care Testing and Immunizations

Some CVS pharmacy technicians may also be trained to administer point-of-care tests and immunizations. Point-of-care testing and immunizations serve to diagnose and treat illnesses, as well as to prevent the transmission of disease. Retail pharmacy technicians at CVS are accountable for administering these tests and immunizations, further expanding their skill set and the services they can provide to patients.

By offering point-of-care testing and immunizations, CVS pharmacy technicians play a vital role in helping to maintain the health and well-being of the communities they serve. Their commitment to patient care and their ability to provide a wide range of services make them a valuable asset to the company.

Advancement Opportunities for CVS Pharmacy Technicians

With a strong foundation of training and support, CVS pharmacy technicians have numerous opportunities for career progression and growth. From supervisory roles to further education and specialization, technicians can explore a variety of paths to advance their careers within the company.

By providing comprehensive training, ongoing support, and encouragement for further education and certification, CVS Health helps to ensure that all pharmacy technicians have the tools and resources they need to succeed in their roles and achieve their career goals.

Supervisory Roles

Pharmacy technicians who demonstrate strong leadership and management skills may have the opportunity to progress into supervisory or management roles within the company. In these positions, technicians may oversee the activities of other pharmacy technicians and even assist the Pharmacy Manager in managing the overall functioning of the pharmacy.

These roles offer increased responsibility and the opportunity for personal and professional growth. By demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a strong work ethic, CVS pharmacy technicians can continue to advance their careers and contribute to the success of the company.

Further Education and Specialization

CVS Health supports employees who wish to pursue further education or specialize in a specific area of pharmacy. Pharmacy techs, also known as pharmacy technicians, may choose to obtain additional certifications, such as those offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), or even pursue a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy technology. This additional education can provide technicians with a more comprehensive understanding of the field, as well as the opportunity to specialize in a particular aspect of pharmacy or pursue a career in research or instruction.

By fostering a culture of learning and growth, CVS Health ensures that all pharmacy technicians have access to the resources and opportunities they need to excel in their careers and contribute to the company’s mission of providing exceptional care to patients.

The Benefits of Working as a CVS Pharmacy Technician

Working as a CVS pharmacy technician comes with a host of benefits, including:

Competitive compensation
Comprehensive benefits
A healthy work-life balance
A supportive work environment
Opportunities for career advancement
The satisfaction of knowing that they are making a difference in the lives of the patients they serve.

In addition to the tangible benefits of working as a CVS pharmacy technician, employees also enjoy the intangible rewards that come with being part of a company that values diversity, inclusion, and employee growth. By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, CVS Health helps to ensure that all employees have the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the company’s success.

Compensation and Benefits

CVS pharmacy technicians receive competitive salaries, with an initial hourly wage of approximately $11.00 and the potential to earn up to $15.00 per hour on average. In addition to a competitive salary, technicians are provided with comprehensive benefits, including:

Healthcare coverage
Paid time off
Insurance options
401(k) retirement plans

These competitive compensation and benefits packages demonstrate CVS Health’s commitment to attracting and retaining top talent in the pharmacy industry. By offering a comprehensive package of benefits, CVS Health helps to ensure that all pharmacy technicians have the resources and support they need to succeed in their roles.

Work-Life Balance

CVS Health is dedicated to offering a positive work environment that aids employees in achieving a balance between work and personal life. Some of the ways CVS Health supports work-life balance include:

Flexible scheduling options
Supportive workplace culture
Employee assistance programs
Wellness programs
Paid time off and vacation policies

These initiatives contribute to a healthy work-life balance, helping employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities effectively.

By prioritizing work-life balance and employee well-being, CVS Health fosters a supportive and inclusive workplace environment. This commitment to employee satisfaction includes:

Offering flexible work schedules and remote work options
Providing comprehensive health and wellness programs
Promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives
Offering competitive compensation and benefits packages

This commitment not only helps to attract and retain top talent, but also contributes to the overall success of the company.

CVS Health’s Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

CVS Health is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive environment, embracing all abilities, experiences, backgrounds, and individual perspectives. The company has appointed Shari Slate as their Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer and has established 16 voluntary, colleague-led organizations to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

By fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, CVS Health:

Creates a welcoming and supportive environment for all employees
Helps to ensure that the company remains a leader in the pharmacy industry
Demonstrates a commitment to providing exceptional care to patients and communities

Partnerships with Community Organizations

CVS Health collaborates with community organizations to furnish resources and assistance to disadvantaged communities. These partnerships help to provide employment services and training to underrepresented communities, which can assist in forming a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Furthermore, these alliances can aid in constructing a more equitable and accessible healthcare system.

By partnering with community organizations, CVS Health demonstrates its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion both within the company and in the communities it serves. These collaborations not only benefit the individuals who receive training and employment services, but also contribute to the overall success of the company.

Supporting Employee Growth and Development

CVS Health is committed to furnishing employees with the requisite training and development for success. The company provides a comprehensive training program for pharmacy technicians, encompassing on-the-job training, national certification preparation, and continuing education opportunities. In addition, CVS Health offers employees access to educational materials, mentorship programs, and career progression possibilities.

Summary

In conclusion, the CVS Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers a comprehensive and supportive learning experience for those looking to start a career in the pharmacy industry. From the initial training program to ongoing professional development and career advancement opportunities, CVS Health is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce that provides exceptional care to patients and communities. By choosing a career as a CVS pharmacy technician, you’ll be joining a company that values your growth, supports your success, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest pay for CVS pharmacy tech?

The highest pay for CVS pharmacy technicians is $42,500 at the 75th percentile. The average hourly rate ranges from $17 to $21 with an average total hourly cash compensation of $19.

What are the elements of CVS’s apprenticeship training program?

CVS’s apprenticeship training program includes classroom and online instruction, professional mentorship, on-the-job training, pre-employment support, and post-placement retention support.

This program provides a comprehensive approach to preparing individuals for successful careers in the retail industry. It is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the workplace. Participants receive hands-on training and mentorship from experienced professionals, as well as access to resources.

What are the requirements to be a pharmacy technician in Florida?

To be a pharmacy technician in Florida, one must have earned a GED or high school diploma, have a clean criminal record with no felonies, completed a PTCB course and registered on the official PTCB website.

Additionally, the applicant must pass the PTCB exam and obtain a license from the Florida Board of Pharmacy. The license must be renewed every two years.

How long is pharmacy technician training at cvs?

Becoming a Pharmacy Technician at CVS takes approximately 14 weeks of classroom instruction and 6 weeks of clinical on-the-job training. Training includes topics such as customer service, business of pharmacy, patient safety, pharmacy workflow, inventory management, and prescription medication measurements.

Does CVS Health offer any support for pharmacy technicians seeking national certification?

Yes, CVS Health offers support for pharmacy technicians seeking national certification in the form of classes, materials, and sponsoring eligible colleagues by covering the cost of the exam.

What the CVS pharmacy technician training program actually involves

CVS Health runs one of the largest employer-based pharmacy technician training programs in the country. If you are already working at a CVS pharmacy, or you plan to apply for a technician role there, this program is how the company prepares you for the job. You train while you work, which means you earn a paycheck from day one instead of paying tuition at a school and waiting until graduation to get started.

The program is tied directly to on-the-job experience. You learn in a real pharmacy with real patients. That is different from a classroom-only program where you practice on simulations. Most technician trainees at CVS complete the training within [VERIFY: confirm current program length in weeks] weeks, depending on store hours and scheduling.

How the program is structured

CVS combines two training methods. You complete online coursework through the company’s internal learning system, and you also train hands-on at a CVS pharmacy location. Your pharmacist supervisor guides the in-store portion. That person signs off on your competency checkpoints as you move through each module.

Online learning modules

The online portion covers pharmacy law, drug terminology, prescription processing, insurance billing, and medication safety. These are the same topics tested on the national certification exam, so the coursework doubles as exam preparation. You work through modules at your own pace within a set schedule your store manager assigns.

On-the-floor training

The hands-on part is where most of the learning happens for most people. You fill prescriptions, manage inventory, handle insurance rejections, and interact with patients under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. Each task you complete is logged as part of your training record. CVS uses this record to confirm you are ready to sit for the certification exam.

Certification requirements after you finish training

Completing the CVS training program does not make you a certified pharmacy technician on its own. Most states require you to pass a national certification exam. The two main exams are the PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam), run by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and the ExCPT (Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians), run by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Both are nationally recognized. CVS typically guides trainees toward the PTCB exam.

After you pass the exam, you earn the CPhT credential. CPhT stands for Certified Pharmacy Technician. Some states also require a separate state license or registration in addition to the CPhT. You need to check your specific state’s board of pharmacy rules before you sit for the exam.

Does CVS pay for the exam?

CVS has offered exam reimbursement to qualifying technician employees in the past. Whether that benefit applies to your position depends on your employment status, how long you have worked there, and current company policy. Ask your store manager or check the CVS employee benefits portal directly. Do not assume reimbursement is automatic.

Who qualifies for the CVS program

To enter the CVS pharmacy technician training program, you generally need to be hired as a pharmacy technician trainee at a CVS location. The minimum requirements CVS lists for that role are a high school diploma or GED and the legal age to handle controlled substance prescriptions in your state, which is 18 in most states. Prior pharmacy experience is not required for the trainee position.

Some states have their own registration requirements for pharmacy technician trainees. In Texas, for example, you must register with the Texas State Board of Pharmacy before you can work in a pharmacy in any capacity, including as a trainee. Requirements like that are set by the state, not by CVS, so check your state board’s website before you apply.

Background checks

CVS runs a background check as part of the hiring process. Certain criminal convictions, particularly those related to drug offenses or fraud, can affect your eligibility for a pharmacy technician license in most states even if CVS hires you. If you have a prior conviction, check your state board of pharmacy’s guidance on eligibility before you invest time in training.

What you can expect to earn as a CVS pharmacy technician

Pay for pharmacy technicians varies by location, experience, and certification status. The CVS training program prepares you for entry-level technician work. Once you are certified and have experience, you can move into lead technician roles or specialty areas like immunization or specialty pharmacy, which typically pay more than standard retail technician positions.

Advancement at CVS is tied partly to certification. Technicians who hold a current CPhT credential are generally eligible for higher pay grades and additional responsibilities compared to uncertified technicians. Staying certified requires 20 hours of continuing education every two years through the PTCB, so budget time for that ongoing requirement.

Comparing CVS training to other pathways

The CVS program is one option. It is not the only route to becoming a certified pharmacy technician. Community colleges, vocational schools, and online programs also prepare you for the PTCB or ExCPT exam. Those programs cost money upfront, but they give you credentials before you apply for any job, which can make you a stronger candidate in some hiring markets.

Employer-based training

The main advantage of the CVS program is that you earn income while you train. You avoid student debt. You also get direct experience inside a high-volume retail pharmacy, which is valuable for your resume. The tradeoff is that your training is tied to continued employment at CVS. If you leave the company before completing training or before sitting for the exam, you lose access to the program.

School-based training

A community college program or accredited vocational program gives you a credential that is not tied to one employer. If you complete an ASHP/ACPE-accredited program, that meets the education requirements for PTCB’s advanced technician credentials (PTCB credentials beyond the basic CPhT, designed for technicians who want to specialize). That kind of accreditation is not part of the CVS training pathway. If you are planning a long-term career in pharmacy, including possibly moving into specialty roles or hospital pharmacy, a school-based program may give you more flexibility.

State registration rules that affect CVS trainees

The CVS program operates across all 50 states, but state pharmacy boards set their own rules for trainees. Some states let you work as an unregistered trainee for a limited period while you complete training. Others require you to register with the state board before your first shift. A few states cap how long you can work without passing a certification exam.

California requires pharmacy technician trainees to register with the California State Board of Pharmacy within a specific window of starting work. Florida requires registration before employment begins. New York has a different set of requirements. The point is that the rules differ, and CVS will walk you through what applies in your state, but you should verify the current requirements with your state board directly because those rules can change.

Questions to ask before you commit

Before you accept a pharmacy technician trainee position at CVS, get clear answers to a few specific questions. Ask how long the training program takes at that specific store. Ask whether the store is currently able to support a trainee, meaning whether a supervising pharmacist has the bandwidth to sign off on your competencies. Ask what the exam reimbursement policy looks like right now and what happens to your training record if your employment ends before you finish.

These are practical questions, and any store manager should be able to answer them. If the answers are vague, that is useful information before you start.

Next steps if you want to move forward

If the CVS training pathway fits your situation, the first step is to apply for a pharmacy technician trainee role through the CVS careers website. Look for openings near you by searching “pharmacy technician trainee” in the job search tool. You can also walk into a CVS pharmacy and ask the pharmacist or store manager whether they are currently hiring trainees.

If you want to compare this pathway against school-based programs before you decide, look at accredited pharmacy technician programs in your area. Accreditation by ASHP (the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists) is the standard to look for in school-based programs. Some of those programs are available fully online, which means you could complete coursework while working part-time and then apply for certified technician roles at any employer, not just CVS.

Explore pharmacy technician training programs near you to compare your options and find the path that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals.