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Want to kickstart a career in healthcare?
Exploring the top Pharmacy Technician Programs in Roanoke, VA can set you on the right path. This guide covers standout programs, key features, and essential details, helping you find the best fit for your professional goals.
Let’s get started with the top recommendations.
AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare – Pharmacy Technician Program
The AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare offers a robust Pharmacy Technician Program in Roanoke, VA, designed to equip you with the skills required for a fulfilling career. This 14-week program covers a broad range of subjects essential for pharmacy technicians, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in the field.
The curriculum of the AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare – Pharmacy Technician Program includes:
- Pharmacy Operations: Understanding daily tasks in a pharmacy setting.
- Prescription Orders: Managing and processing medication orders.
- Patient Care: Learning the essentials of customer service in healthcare.
- Dosage Forms and Compounding: Gaining knowledge in medication formulations and preparation.
- Top 200 Drugs: Familiarizing yourself with frequently prescribed medications.
The program utilizes various learning resources, including online content, virtual clinical simulations, study guides, and video demonstrations. A key feature is the pharmacy simulation lab, where you can gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment.
A standout aspect of this program is the affiliation with Walgreens for a clinical externship. This opportunity provides crucial real-world experience.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 400 clock hours (180 didactic, 80 simulation, 140 clinical)
- Flexibility: Online format with flexible payment plans
- Financial Aid: Military tuition funding options like MYCAA and Army Credentialing Assistance
- Exam Prep: Comprehensive preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)
Admission requirements include being 18 years old and passing an assessment test in reading comprehension and math. With an 85% pass rate on the PTCE, this program effectively prepares students for a successful career.
The AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare ensures you gain both academic knowledge and practical skills, empowering you for a robust career in the healthcare industry.
Fast Track Health Care Education – Pharmacy Technician Program
Fast Track Health Care Education also offers a specialized Pharmacy Technician program in Roanoke, VA. This 160-hour program blends classroom theory with practical lab experience and real-world externships. Designed to cater to various schedules, it is available in both daytime and evening formats.
The program’s curriculum includes:
- Prescription Management: Retrieving and processing prescription orders.
- Medication Safety: Ensuring accuracy in counting and measuring medications.
- Compounding Techniques: Preparing complex medications.
- Insurance Claims: Understanding and preparing insurance documentation.
- Clinical Skills: Hands-on training in medical labs.
Key components of Fast Track’s program are 120 hours of classroom instruction combined with 40 hours of clinical training. Additionally, it requires CPR for Medical Professionals and AED training before clinical rotation.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: 160 hours (120 classroom, 40 clinical)
- Scheduling: Flexible class times, including evening options
- CPR Certification: Required for clinical training
- Job Opportunities: Preparation for roles in hospitals, retail pharmacies, and assisted living facilities
Admission criteria include being at least 18 years old at program completion, a high school diploma or GED, and passing a criminal background check. The program also ensures compliance with health prerequisites like CPR certification and a negative TB test.
This program fully prepares you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam, bolstering your employment prospects and readiness for the field.
Note that this program addresses essential needs, offers practical training, and prepares you for a successful career in pharmacy technology.
Continue to explore other Pharmacy Technician Programs in Roanoke, VA, to find the one that best aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
TAP – Adult Education Pharmacy Technician Program
TAP (Total Action for Progress) offers an Adult Education Pharmacy Technician Program aimed at adults who are eager to enter the healthcare field. This program focuses on essential skills and knowledge required to become a proficient pharmacy technician. TAP extends additional training options in various fields, including forklift operation, tractor-trailer operation, IT certifications, and healthcare-related certifications.
Key Components:
- Program Structure: The curriculum encompasses critical aspects of pharmacy operations, medication orders, dosage forms, and patient care.
- Support Services: TAP offers stipends, transportation reimbursements, and professional attire, ensuring students are well-supported throughout their education.
- Flexibility: Courses and schedules cater to adults with diverse commitments.
- Eligibility: Requirements may vary, so direct contact with TAP is recommended to match the program with your goals.
TAP also provides other educational opportunities, such as Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Veteran Services, OnRamp, and CareerForge. These programs span multiple counties including Craig, Alleghany, and Rockbridge, enhancing accessibility to a larger demographic.
By attending TAP’s Adult Education Pharmacy Technician Program, you’ll gain the necessary training and support to secure a rewarding career in the healthcare sector.
How to Choose the Best Pharmacy Technician Program
Selecting the right Pharmacy Technician Program in Roanoke, VA involves considering several crucial factors to ensure the best fit for your career aspirations. Here’s a detailed guide on what to look for:
1. Accreditation
Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). Accreditation guarantees that the program meets industry standards and provides quality education.
2. Cost and Financial Aid
Evaluate the tuition fees and potential financial aid options. Some programs offer payment plans, scholarships, or military tuition funding. Factor in additional costs like books, lab fees, and certification exam fees.
3. Duration
The length of the program may vary. Choose one that fits your schedule and career timeline. Programs can range from a few months to a year.
4. Curriculum
The curriculum should cover:
- Pharmacy Operations: Daily tasks and responsibilities.
- Medication Orders: Handling and processing prescriptions.
- Dosage Forms and Compounding: Preparing medications and understanding their formulations.
- Patient Care: Customer service skills in healthcare settings.
- Certification Prep: Comprehensive preparation for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).
5. Hands-on Training
Look for programs that include practical experience through externships or simulation labs. Hands-on training is essential in gaining real-world skills.
6. Career Support
Programs offering job placement assistance and career services can significantly enhance your employment prospects. Ensure that the program helps with resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
7. Success Rates
Research the program’s success rates, such as certification exam pass rates and employment rates post-graduation. High success rates usually indicate the program’s effectiveness.
8. Student Reviews
Seek testimonials or reviews from former students. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the program’s strengths and weaknesses.
By considering these factors, you can choose a pharmacy technician program that aligns with your career goals and educational needs, setting you up for success in the healthcare industry.
Final Thoughts on Pharmacy Technician Programs in Roanoke, VA
In conclusion, Roanoke, VA offers a variety of pharmacy technician programs designed to provide the training and support you need to embark on a successful career. Whether you choose the AlliedRx Institute of Healthcare, Fast Track Health Care Education, or the TAP Adult Education Program, each program has unique features to fit your specific needs.
Evaluate your options, consider your career goals, and take the next step toward becoming a certified pharmacy technician. Each detailed review and guide in this article provides the information you need to make an informed decision and succeed in the healthcare industry.