Becoming a pharmacy technician is not as easy as it sounds. There are specific skills and knowledge that you need to have to enter and succeed in this field.

Enrolling in a pharmacy trade school program is one of the best ways to acquire these skills and knowledge. Here, you will learn the basics of pharmacy science, patient care, drug distribution, and pharmacy management.

Here are some of the most important things you'll learn from a pharmacy tech trade school program. 

Medical Terminology and Anatomy 

One of the first things you'll learn in a pharmacy tech trade school program is critical medical terminology and anatomy. You'll understand the meaning of medical terms and their roots, prefixes, and suffixes.

For example, you'll learn the physiology and anatomy of organs and systems (such as the cardiovascular, nervous, and digestive systems), how drugs interact with these organs, and their side effects.

You'll also understand the process of drug distribution and use in the body. This will help you read and understand prescriptions, which is one of the most important and basic tasks of a pharmacy technician. You'll also have an easier time communicating effectively with healthcare professionals and keeping accurate records.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their interactions with living systems. It is a critical component of pharmacy and involves understanding how drugs work their side effects, and the risks associated with taking them. You'll also learn to identify drugs by their generic and brand names, dosages, strengths, and forms, such as tablets, capsules, and injections.

The program will also help you learn how to calculate medication dosages, fill prescriptions accurately, and handle controlled substances. This will also help you provide drug information to healthcare professionals and patients accurately.

Pharmacy Law and Ethics

Pharmacy law and ethics are a big part of the pharmacy technician program. You'll learn about laws and regulations related to drug distribution, privacy, quality assurance, and patient safety. You'll also study federal and state regulations, such as HIPAA, DEA, and FDA, and their impact on pharmacy practice.

The program also delves into pharmacy technicians' legal and ethical responsibilities, such as maintaining patient confidentiality, handling sensitive information, and reporting errors and discrepancies. You'll be equipped with knowledge on how to handle ethical dilemmas, such as conflicts of interest, patient autonomy, and end-of-life care.

In conclusion, a pharmacy tech trade school program provides a comprehensive and practical education that prepares you for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. By enrolling in a quality program, you'll learn the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a pharmacy technician, whether you work in a community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, or long-term care facility.

So, if you're passionate about helping others and interested in the pharmacy field, consider enrolling in a pharmacy tech trade school program today.