Hiring pharmacy technicians

The pharmaceutical industry uses certain software programs designed to streamline workflows, track inventory, coordinate with caregivers and insurance providers, and efficiently deliver customer prescriptions. Proficiency with industry-specific software means customers will likely receive faster service.

An incorrect dosage can have serious consequences for a patient. A pharmacy technician must draw on knowledge of chemistry, pharmacology, and physiology to spot an incorrect dosage. This person also needs to report it quickly to a pharmacist or supervisor and assist in correcting the dosage with the prescribing caregiver.

This answer demonstrates a candidate’s knowledge of best practices for the job requirements, as well as proficiency in consulting patient profiles, scanning and counting medication, and checking for side effects or potentially harmful drug combinations.

In addition to technical knowledge, a large part of a pharmacy technician’s job involves customer service. Interpersonal skills are every bit as important as knowledge of how to mix, count, and distribute medications.

Having insurance declined is likely to be frustrating and embarrassing for customers — and can prevent them from receiving necessary medication. A good candidate might suggest contacting the prescribing physician to amend the prescription so that it meets the insurance company’s guidelines.

It’s unfortunately common that a pharmacy technician encounters customers who are trying to obtain medications without a valid or authorized prescription, often referred to as "drug-seeking behavior." It’s important that the technician can recognize potentially illegal situations and address them appropriately.

A pharmacy technician’s role includes duties, such as taking inventory and updating databases, that are crucial yet repetitive and potentially tedious. A strong candidate can remain alert and motivated while performing any necessary task.

Pharmacists must be comfortable in making real-time decisions about priorities when things get busy. To avoid sacrificing accuracy or customer service, they should be able to delegate responsibilities and find additional support when needed. This requires them to maintain strong lines of communication with their team members at all times.

A business is only as strong at the team supporting it, and this is especially true for consumer-facing industries. Pharmacies thrive when workers support each other to reach a common goal.