Current status of hospital pharmacy technicians in Michigan

The results of a comprehensive statewide survey of hospital pharmacy technicians are presented. Although this was only a statewide survey, its findings should be of interest to technicians and pharmacists everywhere since very few data of this type are available. In addition, Michigan is a very progressive pharmacy state and has recently implemented a formal technician certification process (described in an appendix) via the Michigan Pharmacists' Association. The survey instrument was mailed to the Directors of Pharmacy at 252 Michigan hospitals. The response rate was 68.7% (173) hospitals). The survey pointed out that Michigan hospitals employ on the average one technician for each pharmacist. Most hospitals required high school graduation and typing skills as a minimum for hiring of a technician. Numerous technician work responsibilities were identified, including the admixture of sterile products. Technicians in this survey had a variable work schedule, and the future job market appeared to be healthy. Most of the technicians were females under the age of 30. Average hourly wages for regular technician position ranged from $5.05 to $6.25 (June 1981). Numerous categories of technicians were noted, and about 20% of the technicians were unionized. Many of the hospitals utilized a formal on-the-job technician training program. The performance of the majority of technicians was evaluated annually, and many opportunities existed for continuing education. The concept of technician certification appeared to be looked upon favorably by most of the pharmacy directors.