In an email press release sent Monday afternoon, Coupeville Town Marshal David Penrod described the robber as approximately 5-feet, 6-inches tall, weighing 150 pounds. He was wearing a dark colored hooded jacket or sweatshirt, dark colored jeans, a black mask, and brandished a silver handgun.

Deputies with the Coupeville Marshal’s Office were on scene within one minute, closely followed by the Island County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies conducted an extensive search of the immediate area, but were unable to locate the suspect.

Coupeville deputies, Island County Sheriff’s deputies and State Patrol troopers’ vehicles flashed their lights along Main Street, Highway 20 and Broadway Avenue in an effort to set up a perimeter around the pharmacy.

“You’ve got to plug up the holes you know you have,” said Lt. Evan Tingstad with the Island County Sheriff’s Office.

Coupeville schools were locked down for more than an hour while deputies checked the areas surrounding them.

There were eight people in the store at the time of the robbery, including a pharmacist, two pharmacy assistants, two technicians and three college students who were helping with store inventory, general manager Adam Lind said. No one was injured during the robbery.

“The crew is a little shaken up,” he said.

The man cleared out the pharmacy’s supply of OxyContin, a highly addictive prescription pain medication.

“He took everything we had on the shelf in every strength,” Lind said.

Investigators dusted for finger prints and lifted a shoe print the robber left after he vaulted over the front counter on his way out, Lind said.

The pharmacy remained open after the robbery and continued to filled prescription requests by customers who seemed unaware of the morning heist.

Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the incident and review the store’s video surveillance system.

“The suspect is still at large and the investigation is being conducted by the Island County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Coupeville Marshal’s Office,” Marshal Penrod wrote in the press release.

A Skagit County Sheriff’s Office search dog and handler were initially called in to help with the search effort. The unit was called off because officials couldn’t find anything to give the animals a scent trail, according to Island County Sheriff Mark Brown.

During the lock down, Coupeville Elementary School kids were kept in classrooms and the windows were blacked out. The exterior doors were locked at the high school and middle school. The district lifted the lock down at 11:45 a.m.

Anyone with information regarding the crime should contact Detective Sgt. Mike Beech of the Island County Sheriff’s Office, 678-4422, or call 911. Anonymous tips may be left with the Island County Tip Line at 679-7319.

More details about the lockdown and the reported robbery to follow.

UPDATE: Marshal gives description of Coupeville pharmacy armed robber is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools

Try telling Mac Wilhoit there’s nothing new under the sun. He knows better.

The 61-year-old independent pharmacist has reinvented his North Knoxville business several times, and he’s not through.

Since 1989 Wilhoit has offered his thousands of customers free deliveries, drug screenings and counseling. Now an innovative medication alert service is free to customers, all from the humble building on Washington Pike.

The small pharmacy stocks no groceries, cosmetics or beer at the store’s front end. Instead, medication counseling takes up that space. Prescription medicines are the bulk of the business, and Wilhoit and his staff greet his return “patients” by first name, accompanied by a pat on the back.

For years Wilhoit has responded with a flat “no” to national drugstore chain buyout offers. And Mac’s Pharmacy recently added another store – this time with his son managing. Wilhoit recently bought Edgemoor Pharmacy in Claxton, renamed it Mac’s Pharmacy and celebrated a reopening in October.

In an economy where business takeovers are the norm and chain stores are in every neighborhood, Mac’s Pharmacy is bucking the trend. Wilhoit believes he joins thousands of small businesses leading the nation’s economic recovery. Mac’s Pharmacy is part of a national group of 3,500 independently owned stores. The Leader Pharmacies network helps independent stores leverage competitive medication pricing.

“I’ve had lots of offers from chains, and I have nothing against them. It’s just not for me,” says Wilhoit, who has handed down the same philosophy to his son Mike.

Mike Wilhoit, 27, worked briefly for a chain drugstore following graduation from the University of Tennessee but soon returned to the family business.

“I know this other more personal side of pharmaceutical care,” said Mike Wilhoit. “It’s what my dad has always offered. And it’s what I’ve always wanted since I was a boy, wearing my own little white coat when I would visit the store.”

The store’s customer offerings range from a wellness program of free children’s multivitamins to a computer-generated dosage alert notification.

“We’re the same since 1989, only different,” Wilhoit said.

“We began by taking care of our patients, and we’re keeping that up by changing it up and offering more. It’s another way to differentiate ourselves and make Mac’s something extra,” he said.

Recently the pharmacy piloted “Medicine on Time,” a service that offers a monthly color-coded calendar card containing maintenance medications. Wilhoit says the new system does the hard work, helping elderly patients keep their freedom longer.

Prescriptions are filled as usual and inserted into a daily dosage punch-out card. The program is offered on a free trial basis.

“This is done in nursing homes, but not usually by local pharmacies,” he says. “And when home health nurses administer medications, it is more expensive for the patient.”

Mac’s also recently created “My Dose Alert,” a free automatic notification that alerts customers by phone, text message or e-mail when it’s time to take their medications.

“Research tells us that one out of every two patients do not take their medicine as prescribed, on time,” Mike Wilhoit says. “More than 80 percent cite forgetfulness as the main reason. That means the majority of people simply need a friendly reminder, and that’s what we’re offering the entire community for free if they buy their medication here.”

The high-tech and high-touch approach appeals to UT pharmacy school interns, says Wilhoit.

About a dozen students intern annually at Mac’s Pharmacy, a relationship that is growing, Wilhoit says.

“UT’s pharmacy school is still new, so we know more students will intern. And we show the students the other side – what an independent pharmacy looks like, and they love it. They see our technology, the robotics systems that fill prescriptions, and that technology allows them to get closely involved with our patients.”

Wilhoit says independent pharmacies are competitive in price, even cheaper, but it’s not their primary focus. Wilhoit’s answer to one-stop shopping is health care for his customers.

“That’s simply why I’m here. We even call insurance companies and physicians for our patients when they are having trouble with a prescription. We get on the phone for them. This is why I remain an independent pharmacy. I’m at liberty to create my own job satisfaction and give back to the community,” Wilhoit says.

“I don’t want people to come to Mac’s for price, or leave because of price.”

Mary Leidig is a freelance contributor to the News Sentinel.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL

Mac’s Pharmacy stays independent by focusing on customers’ needs is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools

How To Prepare For A Career As A Pharmacist

• Midwestern University Chicago
• Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville School of Pharmacy
• University of Illinois at Chicago
• Chicago State University
• Butler University
• Purdue University
• Drake University
• University of Iowa
• University of Kansas
• University of Kentucky
• Sullivan University
• University of Louisiana – at Monroe School of Pharmacy
• Xavier University
• University of New England
• University of Maryland – School of Pharmacy
• College of Notre Dame Maryland
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy Boston
• Massachusetts College of Pharmacy Worcester
• Northeastern University – Bouve College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
• Ferris State University
• University of Michigan Wayne State University – Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sc
• University of Minnesota
• University of Mississippi
• St Louis College of Pharmacy – St Louis College of Pharmacy
• University of Missouri – Kansas City Pharmacy School
• University of Montana – Pharmacy School and Allied Health Sciences
• Creighton University
• University of Nebraska
• University of Southern – Nevada College of Pharmacy
• Rutgers State University of New Jersey – Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy
• University of New Mexico
• Long Island University – A and M Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Science
• St Johns University – College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions
• University at Buffalo – State University of New York Pharmacy School
• Albany College of Pharmacy
• University of North Carolina
• North Dakota State University
• Ohio Northern University – Raabe College of Pharmacy
• Ohio State University
• University of Cincinnati – James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy
• Northeastern Ohio Universities
• University of Oklahoma
• Oregon State University
• Duquesne University – Mylan School of Pharmacy
• Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine – LECOM School of Pharmacy
• University of the Sciences Philadelphia
• Temple University
• University of Pittsburgh
• Wilkes University – Nesbitt School of Pharmacy
• Thomas Jefferson University
• University of Rhode Island South Carolina College of Pharmacy
• South Dakota State University
• University of Tennessee
• Texas A and M University – Kingsville Irma Rangel pharmacy school
• Texas Tech University
• University of Houston
• University of Texas at Austin
• University of Utah
• Virginia Commonwealth University
• University of Washington
• Washington State University
• West Virginia University
• University of Wisconsin
• University of Wyoming

Pharmacists provide a valuable service which requires a very specific set of skills that are useful in a variety of settings. In addition to being a rewarding and dynamic career, the pharmacy vocation offers flexible hours, an excellent salary, and the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. The most common environment for a pharmacist to work in is a drug store dispensing medications, providing education and counseling to the public and even, at times, to doctors and nurses. Developing the right drug program for patients on multiple medications is another important aspect of the job. Other avenues a pharmacist can pursue include performing research at a pharmaceutical company, working in a nursing home or home health care setting, teaching at medical schools or even working in a government health agency.

Preparation for a pharmaceutical career begins in high school. Students who are interested in this field should build a strong foundation in mathematics and science as pharmacists must have an aptitude for math and chemistry. Try to complete a range of course in the science field. Advanced placement courses will prepare you for the vigorous curriculum a pharmaceutical student must complete in college. Foreign language study is also recommended. Most colleges and pharmacy schools require or give preference to students who have taken a foreign language. Developing written and communication skills will be helpful throughout both the college years and while working in the profession. Practical experience in the field can be gained by obtaining an afterschool or summer job at a hospital, pharmacy or any other type of medical office or laboratory. Though experience isn’t a requirement, it is helpful to developing skills early on and offers insight into whether you will enjoy working in this particular field.

After high school, you will need to attend college. Students intending to pursue a career as a pharmacist will not need to obtain a bachelor degree. The bachelor degree requirement is no longer in effect. Some pharmacy schools will admit students after they have completed at least two years of undergraduate college work. Others may require three years of undergraduate study before you can apply for admission. Admission is often contingent on the completion of certain core requirements. You can attend any college or university you prefer and then apply for entry into a pharmacy school. If you choose this route, you should find a college which offers a good chemistry, pre-med curriculum or pre-pharmacy program. Maintain a high grade point average to ensure your application for pharmacy school will be competitive enough. Be sure to participate in some form of community service. Leadership activities are also important. Admission requests are on the rise and so the schools are becoming increasingly selective.

The other option is to find a college with a full pharmacy program. The benefit of choosing one college for your undergraduate and graduate degree programs is that you will receive preference when applying for entry into the pharmacy program. Also, the college will be best equipped to ensure you meet all of the entry requirements and that your academic program is on track. Pharmacy programs are generally six year programs. Two years of undergraduate study must be completed. Some schools offer accelerated programs which can eliminate a full year of schooling. After the completion of the two year requisite, student can begin the four year Pharmacy D program. The first three years are generally centered on academic study. The fourth year may be a field internship to allow the student to attain practical experience in the field.

There are approximately one hundred colleges in the United States with accredited professional pharmacy degree programs. You should expect to submit your application to pharmacy school one year in advance. Factors considered during the admission process include grade point average, leadership abilities, communication skills, community service and pharmacy experience if the candidate has acquired any. Courses most often required by most colleges prior to admission to the pharmacy program include biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, English composition, calculus, macroeconomics, foreign language or international studies, arts, American culture, intellectual heritage and studies in race or American ethnicity.

Though it is not a comprehensive list, schools with a professional pharmacy program include:

Students who intend to apply for admission at a pharmacy school will be required to take an entrance exam. The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is the one most often accepted by the schools and most often taken by prospective students. The preferred test by most colleges is administered by the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy. Pre-registration is required to take the test. This can be completed online. The fee for taking the test must be paid at the time you register. The registration fee is $150.00. Three transcripts of your test scores will be sent to the schools of your choice with each additional transcript costing $20.00 each. The test consist of five sections: verbal ability, biology, chemistry, reading comprehension and quantitative ability. There are 240 multiple choice questions.

The Pharmacy degree program is both challenging and vigorous. You will be expected to complete coursework in basic pharmaceutical sciences. Anatomy, physiology, medicinal chemistry, biopharmaceutics, pharmacology and pharmaceutics are included among these professional courses. Students will examine and evaluate drug information and literature, complete courses in pharmacy administration and clinical pharmacy practice. Courses under these are pathophysiology, therapeutics, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutical economics and pharmacy law. The third year of the program is dedicated mainly to electives chosen by the student. Students are able to select courses tailored towards their own interests and career goals; nuclear pharmacy, clinical research, drug safety. The fourth and final year is dedicated to internships where the student will work in a pharmaceutical setting under the direction of a licensed pharmacist and the supervision of a faculty advisor. At the completion of the program, the graduate will receive a Doctor of Pharmacy.

After you graduate from Pharmacy school with your Pharmacy D degree, you earn the title of pharmacist. You will be required to obtain a license in the state you intend to practice. Most states will have their own specific licensing requirements. One of the requirements is generally the completion of an internship. Since internships are part of the pharmacy school requirements you will likely already have this requirement satisfied before you graduate with the Pharmacy D. In most states, you will be required to take a licensure exam. The North American Pharmacist Licensure ExaminationTM (NAPLEX) is used in all jurisdictions within the United States which require the exam, except California. The exam is a computer adaptive test which will evaluate the person’s abilities of applying the knowledge they have attained throughout their pharmacy program. The exam fee is $430.00.

After you have successfully completed the exam and obtained your license, you will be able to begin work in the field. However, you will need to reapply for licensure every two years. Pharmacists are required to take continuing education courses during the two year period to ensure they remain current on the advancements, updates and changes which occur within the field. You should expect to complete approximately 30 units during this time. The courses must be accredited by the American Council of Pharmaceutical Education or considered acceptable by the sate board of pharmacy. Classes are offered both online and in a traditional classroom setting. Pharmacists will need to check with their state licensing agency to determine the renewal fee and requirements to make sure all requirements are met.

How To Prepare For A Career As A Pharmacist is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools

by Nancy Saffer

n  the  past,  a  pharmacist probably filled the prescrip­tions you ordered. Today, although  pharmacists   are   on duty wherever medications are dispensed, a pharmacy techni­cian or pharmacy assistant of­ten does most of the work in pre­paring and selling prescriptions.

The role of pharmacy technicians and assistants has changed for a number of rea­sons. One reason is that using these work­ers minimizes health care costs. Another is that because pharmacy technicians and assistants handle routine work, pharma­cists are able to focus more on supervisory duties and patient care and advice.

This article describes what pharmacy technicians and assistants do, as well as where they work, what their job outlook is, how much they earn, and how they train for these careers.

Nature of the work

Pharmacy technicians and assistants help licensed pharmacists in providing medi­cation and health care to patients. They

Nancy Saffer is an economist formerly with the Office of Employment Projections, BLS.

In the world of pharmacy, it’s increasingly the technicians and assistants who are minding the store. Here’s a profile of these two health-related occupations.

fl& “™ ^9 .W   ” jW   r J

prepare prescribed medication for pa­tients and perform clerical tasks. Al­though their duties are often similar, technicians usually have more responsi­bilities than assistants.

Laws vary by State, but most States re­quire the work of technicians and assist­ants to be closely supervised by pharma­cists. Pharmacists must check every prescription technicians prepare before it can be given to a patient. And any ques­tions regarding prescriptions, drug infor­mation, or health matters are directed to a pharmacist.

Pharmacy technicians. Pharmacy tech­nicians follow a procedure for filling pre­scriptions. After receiving patients’ written

prescriptions or requests for prescription re­fills, they verify that the information on the prescription is complete and accurate. Then, technicians retrieve, count, pour, weigh, measure, and, if necessary, mix the medica­tion for the prescription. Next, they prepare the prescription labels, select a prescription container, and affix the prescription and other labels to the container. Once the pre­scription is filled, technicians price and file it. Technicians also establish and maintain patient profiles and prepare insurance claim forms.

In retail settings, technicians also stock and take inventory of prescription and over-the-counter medications, clean and help maintain equipment, and man­age the cash register in addition to their other duties.

In hospitals, technicians read physi­cian orders on patients’ charts and prepare and deliver medication after it is checked by a pharmacist. They also enter informa­tion about prescribed medications into patients’ medical records. They may as­semble a 24-hour supply of medicine for every patient, packaging and labeling each dose separately. Each package is checked by the supervising pharmacist before being given to a patient. Like their counterparts in retail establishments, pharmacy technicians in hospitals keep an inventory of the medicines and other supplies they use.

Occupational Outlook Quarterly •Spring 1 999

The duties of pharmacy technicians have changed recently, along with those of pharmacists. “Pharmacists are becoming more focused on patient care, so pharmacy technicians are needed to perform more of the distributive functions,” says Melissa Murer, Executive Director of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

And with technicians concentrating on preparing and dispensing medication, pharmacists have more time for patient consultation. “Preparing the work for the pharmacist is the most important duty of a pharmacy technician,” says Jennifer Corley, a Certified Pharmacy Technician in Haltom City, Texas. “This frees up the pharmacist to spend more time counsel­ing patients and less time behind the counter.”

Pharmacy assistants. Some hospitals and pharmacies employ pharmacy assist­ants, whose duties may be similar to those of technicians. Pharmacy assistants in re­tail pharmacies often work as clerks or cashiers. They may answer phones, handle money, and perform clerical func­tions. Assistants who work in hospitals deliver medication to patients. They also assist in the hospital pharmacy with du­ties such as stocking shelves.

Employment and working conditions

In 1996, pharmacy technicians and assist­ants held about 130,000 jobs—82,000 pharmacy technicians and 47,000 phar­macy assistants. Over two-thirds worked in retail trade, mainly in retail pharma­cies; about a quarter worked in hospitals; and most of the rest worked in other health-related settings such as clinics and nursing homes.

Pharmacy technicians and assistants work in clean, organized, well-lighted, and well-ventilated areas. They spend most of the workday on their feet. Techni­cians and assistants may be required to lift boxes weighing up to 40 pounds and may

Pharmacy technicians prepare routine prescriptions under the supen’ision of a pharmacist.

tablishments and hospitals, since they are paid less than pharmacists. Also, phar­macy workloads—and, consequently, the demand for technicians—are increasing because of society’s growing population of older people, who are more likely to need prescription medication than people in other age groups. Employment of phar­macy assistants likewise will grow as assistants take over some duties of higher-paid pharmacists and pharmacy tech­nicians.

Traditionally, States have required a ratio of one pharmacist to every techni­cian, but that is also expected to change. “Many of the major employers of techni­cians are expanding the number of their facilities, and boards of pharmacy in some States are allowing the legal ratio of tech­nicians to pharmacists to expand,” says

Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Spring 1999

The duties of pharmacy technicians and assistants vary according to their work setting.

In other words, automation is not ex­pected to replace technicians.

Earnings

There are no Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data for pharmacy technicians and assistants. Based on the limited data available, pay appears to vary by geo­graphic location and employer. Accord­ing to estimates from experts in the field, technicians employed in retail pharma­cies earn between $5 and $8 per hour, and those working in hospitals start at about $7 to $9 per hour. Some hospitals pay more to technicians who work evenings, nights, or weekends.

Experienced technicians may earn as much as $10 to $14 per hour, and techni­cians with certification are likely to be paid the most. “Hospitals are offering higher salaries to technicians who are cer­tified,” says Don Ballington, Director of the pharmacy technician program at Mid­lands Technical College in Columbia,

South Carolina. “Certified technicians are also given the first opportunity to ad­vance to a higher position.” More infor­mation about certification is in the next section.

Depending on geographic location, pay for pharmacy assistants ranges from minimum wage, currently $5.15 per hour, to $6.50 per hour.

Most retail pharmacies and hospitals also provide benefits. These include paid vacation and sick leave, medical and den­tal insurance, and retirement plans. Some employers pay overtime to technicians and assistants who work on holidays.

Qualifications, training, and certification

People who want to become pharmacy technicians and assistants should be pro­ficient in basic subjects such as math­ematics, spelling, and reading. A strong background in chemistry and health edu­cation is also recommended. Some em­ployers may prefer to hire people with ex­perience in typing, handling money, or operating special equipment. Pharmacy technicians cannot have prior records of drug or substance abuse.

Technicians and assistants must be alert, observant, organized, honest, and responsible; have good manual dexterity; and be able to perform repetitious work accurately. They need good interpersonal and communication skills because of their frequent interaction with patients, coworkers, and health care professionals. Technicians and assistants must be able to work as part of a team. Ability to take di­rection is also important, but technicians and assistants should be able to work on their own without constant instruction from a pharmacist.

There are few State and no Federal re­quirements for formal training of phar­macy technicians and assistants. Most pharmacy technicians and assistants re­ceive informal on-the-job training. But many employers—especially those who cannot invest the time or money required for on-the-job training—prefer to hire

OO Occupational Outlook Quarterly •Spring 1999

technicians who have completed formal training.

Pharmacy technician education pro­grams involve both classroom and labora­tory work in subjects such as medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceu­tical calculations, pharmacy record keep­ing, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmacy law and ethics. Technicians must learn medication names, actions, uses, and doses. Students who success­fully complete requirements receive a di­ploma, certificate, or associate degree, de­pending on the program.

The American Society of Health-Sys­tem Pharmacists has accredited more than 50 programs for pharmacy technician education. Formal training programs are offered by some hospitals as well as pro­prietary schools, vocational and techni­cal colleges, community colleges, and colleges of pharmacy. The Society also offers an accredited program that requires 600 hours of training.

Pharmacy technicians may also dem­onstrate professional competency by earning certification. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board adminis­ters the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination, a standard­ized test of knowledge and skills required for pharmacy technicians. The exam cov­ers three function areas: Assisting the pharmacist in serving patients, medica­tion distribution and inventory control systems, and pharmacy operations. The cost is $105. About 20,000 pharmacy technicians were certified in 1996, ac­cording to the Board.

To be eligible for the certification exam, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Individuals who pass the exam earn the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician.

Like formal training, certification is not required for pharmacy technicians. However, being certified does provide ad­vantages. “Allowing technicians to be­come certified is one way for them to for­malize their career—they feel like part of a health-care team,” says the Board’s Mel-

Pharmacy technicians and assistants stock and take inventory of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

issa Murer. “Certification also gives em­ployers a sense of retention and recruit­ment in their employees.” Results of a 1994 Board survey confirm that assertion. Surveyed technicians cited better wages, job opportunities, and job security, along with improved self-worth and compe­tence, as a result of earning certification.

Jennifer Corley is among the certified technicians who support certification. “Since technicians are being handed more and more responsibilities, there is a need to have formally educated and well qualified people,” she says. “When I passed the certification exam, I got a $1 per hour raise. I also gained more recogni­tion and respect for my work.”

Certified technicians must be recerti­fied every 2 years. Recertification re­quires completion of 20 “contact” hours—defined as class time or training received in addition to usual duties—of pharmacy-related topics within the 2-year certification period. At least 1 hour must be in the area of pharmacy law. Techni­cians can earn contact hours from sources such as pharmacy associations, pharmacy colleges, and pharmacy technician train­ing programs. A technician working un­der the direct supervision and instruction of a pharmacist can earn up to 10 contact hours.

In contrast to the formal training and certification available to technicians,

pharmacy assistants are almost always trained on the job. Pharmacy assistants might start out observing a more experi­enced worker. After becoming familiar with hospital or store equipment, poli­cies, and procedures, they are able to work on their own. Assistants are not likely to receive additional training unless their employer introduces new equipment or changes policies or procedures.

Working in a community pharmacy or volunteering in a hospital is helpful for someone interested in becoming a phar­macy technician or assistant. Other jobs that may prove useful include work that involves checking inventories, counting, measuring, and using a computer. Many pharmacy technician training programs include clerkships or internships, which provide opportunities for hands-on expe­rience in pharmacies.

Related occupations

Workers in other medical support occupa­tions include medical secretaries, hospi­tal admitting clerks, dental assistants, medical record clerks, occupational therapy assistants and aides, licensed nursing aides, surgical technologists, and physical therapy assistants and aides.

For more information

For information on certification and re-certification or to receive a National Phar­macy Technician Certification Examina­tion Candidate Handbook, contact:

Pharmacy Technician Certification Board

2215 Constitution Ave., NW.

Washington, DC 20037-2985

(202) 429-7576

www.ptcb.org

For a directory of accredited pharmacy technician programs, contact:

American Society of Health-System

Pharmacists
7272 Wisconsin Ave.
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 657-3000                          OOQ

‘ccupational Outlook Quarterly • Spring 1 999 O /

Pharmacy Technicians and assistants is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools

pharmacy technician is the pharmacist’s “assistant” and helps him or her keep the pharmacy running in is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools

Choosing the job you want is not like choosing what course to take in college is a post from: Pharmacy in jobs, news, schools