The last time you picked up a prescription, you may have notice the individual that retrieved your prescription or processed your insurance - that was the pharmacy technician. While the pharmacist is busy filling prescriptions, the pharmacy technician provides necessary assistance throughout the pharmacy - from verifying prescription information to preparing prescription containers.

It is a rewarding and exciting career that is needed nationwide. As a growing and aging population requires more medical care, there will be an increased need for prescriptions and pharmacy personnel - meaning opportunity for you! If you've wanted to start a pharmacy technician career, now's the time to get the training you need. Here's the steps you need to take:

1) Enroll in an accredited career-training school - You need to get a proper educational foundation. Take the first step and enroll in a pharmacy technician course. No time to travel to a classroom? Need to keep your current job? Taking a pharmacy technician online course is the perfect way to prepare for your new career, with the flexibility to focus on your life. Study any time, anywhere with a course that is convenient and self paced.

2) Become certified - Make sure that the pharmacy technician course you choose provides the knowledge you need to prepare for the certification exam. By taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification exam, you will provide you pharmacy technician career with increased opportunities.

3) Start your pharmacy technician career - Once you finish your pharmacy technician online course and become certified, you will be prepared to join a pharmacy team anywhere in the nation. Choose to work alongside a licensed pharmacist in a hospital, community pharmacy, outpatient clinic, nursing home or pharmaceutical organization.

How long does it take to become a pharmacy technician? The pharmacy technician course includes 120 hours of study - the amount of time you can spend each week will determine how soon you can start your pharmacy technician career. If you study 10 hours each week, you will finish your course within three months. You will then need to prepare for and sit for the certification exam.