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Arizona Pharmacy Tech School – AZ
Published: February 21st, 2010
Currently there are estimated to be almost 7,000 pharmacy technicians practicing in the state of Arizona, making up 2% of the pharmacy technicians in the United States. The highest concentration of pharmacy technicians can be found working in general medical and surgical hospitals. A large number also work in grocery store pharmacies and other general merchandise stores. The job outlook for pharmacy technicians is strong. Due to advances in technology and medicine the general population is living longer. As the population ages, the need for regular medicine increases as does the need for more professionals to dispense these medications, thus leading to a strong job market for pharmacy technicians. Pharmacy technicians in Arizona must meet heavy regulations before being allowed to practice, making Arizona one of the more difficult states to become a pharmacy technician in. However, these regulations are set by the state to ensure public safety. By attending Arizona pharmacy technician schools or accredited online programs you are ensuring your ability to meet all state eligibility requirements. Pharmacy technicians must register with the Arizona Board of Pharmacy and become licensed, which requires additional education and training. While pharmacy technicians may spend most of the day on their feet, work some nights, weekends, and holidays, the job can be very rewarding as you are helping and assisting the public in becoming healthier citizens.
Continuing Education Requirements for a Pharmacy Technician in the Arizona
Pharmacy technicians in Arizona are required to renew their license annually. Most states require pharmacy technicians to renew their license biennially. Annual renewal is yet another way that Arizona is holding its pharmacy technicians to higher standards and regulations. License renewal is done by submitting an application to the Arizona State Board of Pharmacy by November 1st. The fee to renew is $36 plus an additional fee for a wall certificate, which must be displayed at the place of employment. The Arizona State Board of Pharmacy also requires all pharmacy technicians to complete 20 hours of continuing education, two of which must be in pharmacy law. Continuing education can include education courses, seminars, on-the-job training and more. All continuing education hours must be board-approved. Several continuing education opportunities are now available online, to allow for easier access and flexible scheduling.
Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Pharmacy Techs in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa and Glendale, Arizona may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Saint Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Maricopa Medical Center, and Tucson Medical Center.