Unlocking Success With Pharmacy Tech Training Walgreens
Are you considering a career as a pharmacy technician? The pharmacy tech training Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to excel in this rewarding field. With a comprehensive curriculum accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), this program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in retail pharmacy.
In this blog post, we will delve into the various aspects of the pharmacy tech training Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program, from its objectives and accreditation to the hands-on experience you can gain through in-store training, externships, and job shadowing. We will also explore the support available for preparing for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam, as well as the additional resources offered by Walgreens University. So, let’s begin our journey toward unlocking success in the world of pharmacy tech!
Short Summary
- Walgreens’ Pharmacy Technician Training Program provides students with the expertise and knowledge to succeed in retail pharmacy roles, accredited by ASHP.
- The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with theoretical knowledge and practical experience, supplemented by various hands-on experiences such as job shadowing.
- Walgreens also sponsors PTCB training & exam costs for its trainees plus additional resources to ensure their success in certification journey.
Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program Overview
Walgreens, a leading retail pharmacy chain, offers an accredited Pharmacy Technician Training Program to equip students with the necessary skills for the pharmacy technician role in retail pharmacy, focusing on medication preparation, dispensing, and patient care. This nationally recognized program requires a minimum of 15 weeks and 600 hours, during which students learn about pharmacy systems, medication preparation, and patient care.
Upon completion, students may receive up to 8 semester hours of college credit, recognizing their expertise in medication dispensing and other pharmacy-related skills.
Objectives and Accreditation
The objective of the Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for retail pharmacy roles, with a focus on medication preparation, dispensing, and patient care. As the first program to receive accreditation from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), Walgreens sets the gold standard in preparing aspiring pharmacy technicians for success.
This accreditation, provided by the accreditation council, is essential when obtaining the designation PTCB CPhT and/or licensing, as it ensures that pharmacy technicians are well-versed in using pharmacy cash registers and other essential tools in a retail pharmacy setting.
Curriculum Content
The Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers a hybrid course of approximately 90 hours, combining theoretical knowledge and practical experience to prepare students for a state-of-the-art pharmacy environment. The program encompasses essential topics such as medication topics, herbal products, disease states, laws, and ethics, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the knowledge required for a successful career in the pharmacy field.
As part of the program, students also participate in an externship component, allowing them to gain real-world experience in a pharmacy setting. This hands-on experience is invaluable in reinforcing the theoretical knowledge gained during the course and ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future careers as pharmacy technicians.
Gaining Hands-on Experience at Walgreens
At Walgreens, gaining hands-on experience is considered an essential aspect of the pharmacy technician training process. To ensure students are well-equipped for their future careers, Walgreens provides various opportunities for practical experience, including in-store training, externships, and job shadowing for high school students.
Let’s explore these opportunities in more detail.
In-store Training
Walgreens offers a 3-4 week in-store training program for pharmacy technicians, which includes computer-based training, on-the-job experience, and classroom learning. This comprehensive approach ensures that students acquire a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, essential for success in the pharmacy technician role.
The in-store pharmacy tech training program provides pharmacy technicians with the benefit of obtaining practical experience in an authentic environment, as well as the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. This hands-on training allows students to gain confidence in their abilities and develop a thorough understanding of the various aspects of retail pharmacy.
Externship Opportunities
Walgreens offers externship opportunities for pharmacy technician students, providing the chance to gain practical experience in a pharmacy setting. Positions in the externship program can be attained by students who apply and fulfill the prerequisite criteria, such as completing the required coursework and possessing a valid pharmacy technician license.
Students may apply for externship opportunities at Walgreens by contacting their school program director. These real-world experiences not only provide students with valuable skills and knowledge that can be utilized in their future careers, but also help them develop a deeper understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of a pharmacy technician.
Job Shadowing for High School Students
For high school students interested in exploring a career in pharmacy technology, Walgreens provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into retail pharmacy technology and training programs through job shadowing. By observing Walgreens pharmacy technicians in action, students can develop a better understanding of the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in this field.
Job shadowing at Walgreens is an excellent way for high school students to familiarize themselves with the pharmacy technician role and the various training programs available to them. This firsthand experience can help students make informed decisions about their future career paths and determine whether a career as a pharmacy technician aligns with their interests and goals.
Preparing for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam
Passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam is an essential step in becoming a certified pharmacy technician, and Walgreens provides a range of support to help students prepare for this crucial milestone. From review classes and study materials to a one-time sponsorship for eligible employees, Walgreens is committed to helping its pharmacy technicians succeed in their certification journey.
The company offers a variety of resources to help pharmacy technicians prepare for the exam, including online resources.
PTCB Exam Sponsorship
As part of their apprenticeship program, Walgreens sponsors the cost of the PTCB training and the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) for its trainees. In addition, they sponsor eligible technicians to enroll in Walgreens instructor-led certification review sessions and take the ExCPT exam.
This financial support not only reduces the burden of exam fees for aspiring pharmacy technicians, but also demonstrates Walgreens’ commitment to the professional development and success of its employees. By sponsoring the PTCB exam, Walgreens ensures that its pharmacy technicians have the necessary resources to excel in their certification journey.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain their PTCB certification, certified pharmacy technicians are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education every two years, which must include at least one hour of pharmacy law and one hour of patient safety. This ongoing education ensures that pharmacy technicians stay up-to-date with the latest developments and best practices in the pharmacy field.
Walgreens supports its certified pharmacy technicians in meeting these continuing education requirements by providing a variety of opportunities for professional development, including conferences, online courses, and webinars. By investing in the continuing education of its pharmacy technicians, Walgreens fosters a culture of growth and excellence among its employees.
Additional Support and Resources from Walgreens University
In addition to the comprehensive training and hands-on experience offered through the Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program, Walgreens University provides a range of additional support and resources to further assist pharmacy technicians in their career journey.
Let’s take a closer look at these valuable resources.
Coaches and Mentors
Coaches and mentors at Walgreens University play a crucial role in providing guidance and support to pharmacy tech trainees, helping them navigate the challenges of their training and career. These experienced professionals offer invaluable insights, feedback, and advice to ensure trainees remain motivated and focused on their objectives.
Having coaches and mentors can make a significant difference in a pharmacy tech trainee’s success, as they provide personalized guidance and support tailored to each trainee’s unique needs and goals. By leveraging the expertise of those who coach pharmacy technicians, trainees can confidently navigate their career path and achieve their full potential as pharmacy technicians.
Pharmacy Education Assistance Program (PEAP)
The Pharmacy Education Assistance Program (PEAP) is a scholarship initiative offered by Walgreens specifically for pharmacy interns who are enrolled in a professional pharmacy program. This program provides an annual grant of $2,500 for each year of participation, totaling up to $25,000 in scholarship awards.
The PEAP is an excellent opportunity for pharmacy interns to receive financial support for their professional pharmacy education, reducing the burden of tuition costs and allowing them to focus on their studies and career development. By investing in the education of its pharmacy interns, Walgreens demonstrates its commitment to nurturing the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
Choosing the Right Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Selecting the appropriate Pharmacy Technician Training Program is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your future career success. When evaluating potential programs, it is important to consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, cost, and program length. Additionally, reflecting on your personal goals and whether an accelerated timeline is desired can help you make an informed choice.
The Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers an exemplary combination of an accredited training program, a comprehensive curriculum, and hands-on experience opportunities, making it an ideal choice for aspiring pharmacy technicians. By enrolling in this program, you can confidently embark on your journey to a successful and rewarding career in the pharmacy field.
Summary
In conclusion, the Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program provides a comprehensive and accredited education for aspiring pharmacy technicians, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in retail pharmacy. From hands-on experience through in-store training, externships, and job shadowing to support for PTCB exam preparation and continuing education, Walgreens is committed to nurturing the professional growth of its pharmacy technicians.
If you are considering a career as a pharmacy technician, the Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program offers an unparalleled opportunity to acquire the expertise and experience you need to excel in this rewarding field. With the support of Walgreens University and its additional resources such as coaches, mentors, and the Pharmacy Education Assistance Program (PEAP), you can confidently embark on your journey to a successful and fulfilling career in the world of pharmacy tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Walgreens offer tuition?
Walgreens offers its team members the opportunity to earn a college degree online at the University of Arizona Global Campus, with financial assistance available for each year of enrollment in pharmacy school.
This is an asynchronous environment and provides a learning platform that is completely online.
What pharmacy pays techs the most?
Based on salary range and availability of jobs, Hospital Pharmacy Technician is the most paying job for Pharmacy Technicians in the US. On average, a Pharmacy Technician in a hospital setting can expect to earn around $42,000 – $177,000 per year.
How much does Walgreens pay pharmacy apprentice tech Texas?
Walgreens Pharmacy Apprentice Techs in Texas typically earn an average of $17.18 per hour.
What happens if you fail the PTCB exam?
If you fail the PTCB exam, you can reapply and retake it after 60 days. However, if you fail it the third time, you must wait 6 months before attempting the exam again.
What is the duration of the Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program?
The Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Training Program duration is 15 weeks and 600 hours.