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Where Can You Work as a Pharmacy Technician?

Wondering where you can work as a pharmacy technician? The answer is pretty much anywhere there is a pharmacy! Pharmacy technicians work in a wide variety of settings, from hospitals and clinics to grocery stores and even online pharmacies. Read on to learn about six of the most common places pharmacy technicians work.
1. Retail pharmacies

This is probably the most common type of pharmacy, and where most people think of when they think of pharmacies. Retail pharmacies are usually found in drug stores, supermarkets, and other similar places. They dispense medications to patients and customers according to prescriptions written by licensed pharmacists. Some retail pharmacies also have drive-thru windows for customers who prefer not to come inside the store.

2. Hospital pharmacies

Hospital pharmacies serve patients who are staying in the hospital. They dispense medications that are ordered by the hospitals’ doctors and nurses for their patients. Hospital pharmacies may also be responsible for stocking emergency crash carts full of life-saving medications, which are used in cases of serious medical emergencies.

3. Clinic pharmacies

Clinic pharmacies are similar to hospital pharmacies, but they serve patients who are visiting outpatient clinics instead of staying in the hospital. Clinic pharmacies usually dispense a lot of medications for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. They may also dispense medications for acute illnesses like the flu or strep throat.

4. Compounding pharmacies

Compounding pharmacies make custom medication formulations for patients who need them. This can include anything from special flavors for kids’ medicines to custom dosages for seniors. Compounding pharmacists also make medications that are no longer commercially available, or that are in short supply due to a drug shortage.

5. Mail-order pharmacies

Mail-order pharmacies are becoming more and more popular due to the convenience they offer patients. With mail-order pharmacy services, patients can have their prescriptions delivered right to their doorsteps instead of having to go out to pick them up at the pharmacy. Mail-order pharmacies also often offer much lower prices than traditional retail pharmacies, which can be a major advantage for patients with limited budgets.

6. Online/e-commerce pharmacies

Online/e-commerce pharmacies are websites or apps that allow patients to order their medications online and have them shipped directly to their homes. These types of pharmacies are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience factor—patients can order their medications anytime, anywhere, and don’t have to worry about making it to the pharmacy during business hours. Plus, many online/e-commerce pharmacies offer competitive prices and discounts on bulk orders.

As you can see, there are many different types of places where you can work as a pharmacy technician! No matter what your interests or goals are, there’s sure to be a type of pharmacy that’s a good fit for you. So if you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, start exploring your options today!