About the role
Pharmacy technicians in the NHS work mainly in one of two areas, hospital pharmacy and community pharmacy although opportunities also exist in other areas such as GP practices and in primary care trusts. All work by a pharmacy technician is overseen by a registered and fully qualified pharmacist.
The primary role of a pharmacy technician’s is to receive and fulfil patient prescriptions that might come from hospitals, physicians, nurses or directly from the patient themselves. After the prescription is fulfilled, the pharmacy technician prices it up and files it. A registered and qualified pharmacist checks the completed prescription before it is given to the patient.
Employability
Team work and good communicating is key to this role. You will need the ability to explain complex and vital information to patients, regarding dosage and use of their medication. Liaising with other healthcare professionals, particularly the supervising pharmacist is also vital to ensure prescriptions, medication and stock are correct. Other general employability skills which are relevant to this role include: These include:
- Self-management plus the ability to work in a team
- Good patient interaction, lots of patience
- Problem solving and scientific nature
- Good communication and writing skills
- Application of numeracy and IT
Career Entry
There are no minimum entry requirements, although you will usually be expected to have four GCSEs at Grade C or above, or the equivalent, including English, science and maths. You will then need to obtain a trainee post either at a hospital or in a community pharmacy. Some trusts may offer the chance to train through an apprenticeship for pharmacy technicians.
To register as a pharmacy technician with the General Pharmaceutical Council, requires a level 3 NVQ Diploma in Pharmacy Service Skills (QCF). The training involves both practical experience and study at a college or by open learning. It usually takes two years to complete. Currently, registration is voluntary, but from 1 July 2011, registration will be mandatory and only pharmacy technicians with acceptable qualifications will be able to join.
Employers & Salaries
Pharmacy technician’s work in a range of settings, including hospitals, medical stores, health and personal care stores, retail or mail-order pharmacies, nursing homes, assisted living facilities. The working hours vary and pharmacy technicians can work part time or full time and may be required to work evenings and weekends. Salary depends upon experience.
| Pharmacy technician | £18,152 | Band 4 |
| Pharmacy technician – higher level | £21,176+ | Band 5 |
| Pharmacy technician specialist | £25,472+ | Band 6 |
| Pharmacy technician team manager | £30,460+ | Band 7 |
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