New York Pharmacy Technician Requirements

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding career as a pharmacy technician in the Empire State? This guide will provide you with a step-by-step roadmap, outlining everything you need to know to get certified and start working in this dynamic healthcare field in New York. Please note that it’s essential to always refer to the official New York State Education Department (NYSED) – Office of the Professions website (http://www.op.nysed.gov/) for the most current and accurate regulations.

Work Environments for Pharmacy Technicians in New York

Pharmacy technicians in New York work in a variety of dynamic and essential healthcare settings across the state. Here’s a look at some of the common places you might find yourself working, along with some of the state’s major pharmacy and healthcare employers:

• Retail Pharmacies: Receive and process prescriptions, interact with customers, and work with insurance companies. Examples include CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
• Hospitals: Prepare and deliver medications to patients within hospitals, potentially specializing in areas like IV compounding or chemotherapy preparation. Examples include Northwell Health, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, and Mount Sinai Health System.
• Long-Term Care Facilities: Assist in the preparation and distribution of medications for residents of nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
• Specialty Pharmacies: Assist in dispensing and preparing complex medications for specific disease states.
• Mail-Order Pharmacies: Fill prescriptions and ship them directly to patients.

In all of these settings, there may be an opportunity to perform more advanced functions and support pharmacists in their care of patients.

Step 1: Understanding the Requirements

To work as a registered pharmacy technician in New York, you must meet the following criteria set by the New York State Education Department (NYSED) – Office of the Professions. Remember, it’s mandatory for registered pharmacy technicians to work in NYSED-licensed facilities under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

Age and Education Requirements

New York requires pharmacy technician applicants to be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or its equivalent

National Certification

In order to meet New York requirements for Pharmacy Technicians, all applicants must be nationally certified. To accomplish this, applicants can obtain pharmacy technician certification from a NYSED-approved certification board, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Registration

Complete the application process with the NYSED and pay the associated fees. Always refer to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) website (http://www.op.nysed.gov/) for any updates or changes to these requirements, along with the most current list of approved certification bodies.

Step 2: Choosing a Certification Path

In New York, there are two pathways to achieve your pharmacy technician certification:  the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Let’s look at these options:

Option 1: PTCB Certification

• Complete a PTCB-recognized training program: Search for programs on the PTCB website.
• OR gain 500 hours of practical experience as a pharmacy technician: This pathway may not be feasible for individuals who aren’t already licensed as pharmacy technicians in the State of New York, since you need certification for initial registration.
• Pass the PTCB exam: Once you’ve completed the training or gained the experience, you’ll need to register for and pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

Option 2: NHA Certification

• Complete an NHA-recognized training program: Similar to PTCB, search for programs on the NHA website.
• OR gain practical experience as a pharmacy technician: As noted above, this pathway may not be feasible for those not yet licensed.
• Pass the ExCPT exam: After completing the program or gaining experience, you’ll need to pass the Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians.

Important Note: Always confirm that your chosen program or experience pathway is fully aligned with specific New York State requirements by visiting the NYSED website (http://www.op.nysed.gov/).

Step 3: Applying for Your New York Pharmacy Technician License

Once you’ve obtained your national certification, you’re ready to register as a pharmacy technician in New York. Here’s the process:

1. Visit the New York State Education Department (NYSED) website: Go to http://www.op.nysed.gov/ and navigate to the pharmacy technician application section of the site.
2. Complete the online application: The application includes your personal information, education, certification details, and responses to questions about disciplinary actions or criminal history.
3. Pay the application fee: The current application fee is listed on the New York State Education Department (NYSED) website. At the time this post is drafted, the fee is $175.
4. Submit supporting documentation: This will likely include:
   • Proof of certification (PTCB, NHA, or other NYSED-approved board)
   • Any other documents required by NYSED based on your individual circumstances.

Important Note: The NYSED will carefully review your application and might ask for additional information if needed. Be prepared to provide any details to facilitate a smooth process.

Step 4: Renewing Your License

New York pharmacy technician licenses expire every three years. To maintain your ability to work, be sure to renew on time! Here’s what you need to know:

• Renewal Cycle: You must renew your license before the expiration date on your registration certificate. You’ll likely receive a renewal notice from the NYSED.
• Renewal Fee: Pay the required renewal fee (currently $100 for each triennial registration period) to the NYSED.
• Renewal Process: You may be able to renew your registration online through the NYSED website or by mail, depending on their current system.

Important Note: If you fail to renew on time, your license will lapse. The NYSED provides instructions on how to reinstate a lapsed license on its website.

Additional Tips for Success

• Network with Pharmacy Professionals: Build connections within the New York pharmacy field by attending industry events, joining professional associations like the New York State Council of Health-System Pharmacists (NYSCHP), or reaching out to pharmacists or technicians in your area.
• Develop Strong Communication Skills: Pharmacy technicians interact extensively with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Practice clear communication, active listening, and empathy to excel in this role.

Stay Current: Keep up with updates in New York pharmacy regulations, best practices, and new therapies by taking additional CE courses (even if not mandated), subscribing to industry publications, or attending conferences.

Conclusion

Becoming a pharmacy technician in New York is an achievable goal with dedication and the right guidance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to launching a fulfilling career in this essential healthcare role within the Empire State.

FAQ

• How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician in New York? The timeline varies depending on your chosen certification path and how quickly you complete the outlined requirements. In some cases, you could potentially complete the process within a few months.
• What is the average salary for a pharmacy technician in New York? Average salary figures vary by location within New York. Research resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or salary comparison websites for the most up-to-date information on your specific area. As of May 2023, the BLS reported a mean hourly wage of $21.04 for pharmacy technicians in New York.
• Where can I find more information about pharmacy technician careers in New York? Here are some helpful resources:
  • New York State Education Department (NYSED): http://www.op.nysed.gov/
  • New York State Council of Health-System Pharmacists (NYSCHP): https://www.nyschp.org/