If you're a pharmacy technician in Rhode Island looking to increase your salary, there are several steps you can take to improve your chances.

Obtain Certification through PTCB: Becoming a certified pharmacy technician through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Consider enrolling in a PTCB-approved program at local institutions like the Community College of Rhode Island or the New England Institute of Technology.

Gain Experience in Specialty Areas: By gaining experience in specialty areas such as compounding or IV therapy, you can make yourself more marketable to potential employers. Look for opportunities to work in specialty pharmacies or hospitals in Rhode Island.

Network with Pharmacy Professionals: Building relationships with other pharmacy professionals in Rhode Island can lead to job referrals and potential salary increases. Consider joining local pharmacy associations or attending networking events in the area.

Continuing Education: Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the pharmacy field by pursuing continuing education opportunities. Look for workshops or seminars offered by organizations like the Rhode Island Pharmacists Association.

Consider Career Advancement: Pursuing opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a lead pharmacy technician or pharmacy manager, can lead to higher salaries in the long run. Look for openings at major healthcare institutions in Rhode Island like Lifespan or Care New England.

Get a High School Diploma or GED

Before you can begin your journey to becoming a Pharmacy Technician in Rhode Island, you must first complete your high school education or obtain a GED. This basic level of education is a requirement for most pharmacy technician training programs. It is crucial for understanding the fundamental concepts of the profession.

Enroll in a Pharmacy Technician Training Program

Once your high school education or GED is secured, the next step is to enroll in a Pharmacy Technician training program. Rhode Island has several institutions that offer these programs, such as the Community College of Rhode Island.

These programs usually provide a combination of classroom and practical learning. They prepare students for a career as a Pharmacy Technician. Alternatively, you could opt for an online certification training program, like Stepful. This offers a more affordable and flexible alternative to traditional college.

>> Read More: How Much Do Pharmacy Technician School & Certification Cost?

Obtain Certification

After completing your training, you'll need to become certified. The Rhode Island Board of Pharmacy requires Pharmacy Technicians to obtain certification through either the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

This certification process involves passing an exam that tests your knowledge and skills in the field of pharmacy. This is a crucial step, as it validates your competence and readiness to work as a Pharmacy Technician in Rhode Island.

>> Read More: Pharmacy Technician Certification Options (PTCB, NHA, CPhT, & More)

Remember, starting a career as a Pharmacy Technician in Rhode Island requires an investment of time and effort. However, the rewards of helping others and being part of the healthcare community make it a worthwhile journey.

Looking to start a healthcare career in Rhode Island? Becoming a pharmacy technician could be a smart move. With pharmacies expanding services and demand for prescription support on the rise, trained pharmacy techs are more essential than ever in both retail and clinical settings.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, pharmacy technician employment nationwide is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for all occupations. In Rhode Island, pharmacy technicians are employed in a range of environments including hospitals, independent pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. The state shows a slightly above-average concentration of pharmacy tech roles, making it a strong location to launch or grow your career in this fast-evolving field.