PT101 : Introduction to Pharmacy Technician

Introduces students to the practice of pharmacy and the activities/duties of a Pharmacy Technician and provides an understanding of various organizations that provide healthcare services. Emphasis on the provision of pharmaceutical care in each organization. The impact of third-party payers and Medicare/Medicaid and the increasing emphasis on quality care is explored. Students are introduced to terminology and abbreviations, as well as provided an introduction to pharmacy-based computer technology and other technologies used in the pharmacy setting, including facsimile machines, pneumatic tube systems, robotic prescription preparation, and electronic mail. Students use a representative ambulatory care system and institutional system to enter doctor orders/prescriptions, update patient information, and manage medication inventory. Students are also introduced to law and general identification and overview of laws and ethical principles with application to pharmacy practice. Of key importance is a discussion on the laws/ethical principles that delineate activities performed by pharmacists and activities performed by technicians.