Pharmacy Technician Specialist

Facility

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

Location

Fayetteville, North Carolina

Department

CFV Cancer Center Pharmacy

Job Family

Professional

Work Shift

Days (United States of America)

Summary

The Pharmacy Technician Specialist demonstrates advanced expertise in a designated area of pharmacy practice, such as Inventory Management, Controlled Substance Oversight, Medication Reconciliation, Regulatory Compliance, Quality Assurance, or other specialized domains. This role operates with a high degree of autonomy, while maintaining close collaboration with pharmacists as needed.
As a subject matter expert, the Specialist serves as the primary trainer for other technicians in their area of specialization or in the use of designated technologies, supporting pharmacy operations and promoting consistency in practice. The Specialist proactively identifies opportunities for process improvement and leads initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality of care, and patient safety.
While primarily focused on their specialty, the Technician Specialist may also provide general support to the pharmacy team as needed. All responsibilities are performed under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, in accordance with regulatory standards and institutional policies.

Major Job Functions

The following is a summary of the major essential functions of this job.  The incumbent may perform other duties, both major and minor, that are not mentioned below.  In addition, specific functions may change from time to time:

• Navigate the electronic medical record and prioritize medication histories that need to be completed for patients admitted to the hospital or pending admission

• Gathers information for best possible medication list from various resources including patient interviews, physician offices, community pharmacies, historical encounters, extended care facilities, or other acute care facilities

• Compiles an accurate list of medications the patient was taking prior to admission to the hospital, providing complete information of each medication identified (drug, dose, route, frequency, indication of PRN, and last dose taken)

• Documents medication history and allergy information and related reactions to the medication in the electronic medical record accurately and in a timely manner

• Directs any unresolved issues to the designated pharmacist and admitting provider

• Maintains and protects at all times the right to privacy of all patients and hospital employees as evidenced by the securing of confidential records and release of information to authorized persons only

• Reports and/or corrects recognized safety hazards to the immediate supervisor or other appropriate person in a timely manner

• Conducts in-service programs to technicians, nurses, and other appropriate groups (including patient education)

• Precepts/educates pharmacy technicians, pharmacy students, pharmacists, and nursing staff of medication history interviews and documentation

• Assists with the collection of data for Improving Organization Performance/Process Improvement monitors

• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

The following qualifications, or equivalents, are the minimum requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of this job:

Education and Formal Training: 

• Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) completion required, unless enrolled in a PharmD program

• Registered with the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy required

• If working in 340B program, Apexus 340B certificate program to be completed within 1 year of hire

Work Experience: 

• 6 months experience as a pharmacy technician required

• 2 years of retail pharmacy experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required: 

• Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking the English language

• Proficiency in technical functions maintaining accuracy and attention to detail

• Knowledge of common medication doses and forms preferred

• Displays necessary interpersonal and communication skills required to interact with patients, coworkers, and other health care professionals

• Able to prioritize work in high volume environment, problem-solve, and adapt to changes in workload or schedule to meet medication history needs

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to work independently and handle stressful environments

• Must be able read physician notes/orders, medication labels, medication lists, etc.

• Manual dexterity for use of equipment operated by pharmacy (computer systems, phones, fax machines, automated dispensing cabinets, etc.)

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and walk throughout shift (6-10 hours). Ability to lift and carry moderate loads (10 lbs); in addition to stooping and kneeling. Effective verbal and written communication skills are essential.

Required Licenses and Certifications

Cape Fear Valley Health System is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity