October 17, 2024
The Journey to Earning the CPhT-Adv Certification from PTCB
By Pharmacy Technician Certification Board Staff
Earning the Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician Certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board is a great way to boost your professional skills and career opportunities. CPhTs-Adv are recognized for their expertise and experience, and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to advancing medication safety. Here’s what you need to know and do to achieve the CPhT-Adv Certification.
What is the CPhT-Adv Certification?
CPhT-Adv builds on the basic Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Certification, requiring you to meet higher standards in specialized areas. This certification highlights your expertise and dedication, setting you apart in the pharmacy world.
Prerequisites and Eligibility
Before you can start working towards the CPhT-Adv Certification, you need to meet a few requirements:
- Active CPhT Certification
You need to already have an active CPhT Certification from PTCB. This ensures you have the basic knowledge and skills for pharmacy practice. - Work Experience
You need at least three years of recent, relevant work experience as a pharmacy technician. This shows your ongoing commitment to the field. - Specialized Knowledge
You need to earn at least four of PTCB’s Assessment Based Certificates or three PTCB Assessment Based Certificates plus the Certified Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician Certification.
Steps to Earning the CPhT-Adv Certification
- Review the Certification Requirements
Start by checking out the certification requirements from PTCB. Get familiar with the eligibility criteria, needed documentation, and specific advanced credentials you need to complete. This helps you understand what’s expected and plan your steps. - Gain Work Experience
Gather the required work experience in various pharmacy settings. Take on roles that let you apply your skills in different practice areas, boosting your knowledge and proficiency. This experience is crucial as you work on earning the advanced specialty certificates. - Earn Advanced Specialty Credentials
Apply and earn the necessary advanced specialty credentials. These credentials are designed to deepen your expertise in specific areas of pharmacy practice. - Submit Your Application
Once you’ve met all the requirements, submit your application to PTCB. Make sure all your documentation is complete and accurate, including proof of work experience.. Pay the necessary fees and follow any other instructions from PTCB. - Maintain Your Certification
After earning the CPhT-Adv Certification, keep it current through continuous professional development. PTCB requires recertification every two years, which involves completing continuing education (CE) hours and meeting other renewal criteria. Staying updated with the latest in pharmacy practice ensures you maintain your advanced certification.
The Benefits of Earning the CPhT-Adv Certification
Earning the CPhT-Adv Certification comes with plenty of benefits:
- Career Advancement: It opens up advanced roles and responsibilities in the pharmacy sector.
- Recognition: It marks you as an expert in your field, earning respect and recognition from colleagues and employers.
- Professional Growth: It encourages ongoing learning and professional development, keeping you at the cutting edge of pharmacy practice.
- Increased Earning Potential: Advanced certification often leads to higher salary prospects and better job opportunities.
Earning the CPhT-Adv Certification from PTCB is a challenging yet rewarding journey. It shows your commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice and positions you as a leader in your field. By meeting the high standards and demonstrating advanced knowledge, you not only enhance your career prospects but also significantly contribute to the quality of patient care. Embrace this journey with dedication and enthusiasm, and enjoy the benefits of being an Advanced Certified Pharmacy Technician. Learn more at ptcb.org.
