Role of Approved Ohio High School Training Programs in the Demand for Pharmacy Technicians

Objective: To provide an overview of Ohio Administrative Code 4729 and to identify the potential role of newly approved Ohio high school training programs in preparation of registration-ready pharmacy technicians. Data Sources: Relevant sections of the Ohio Administrative Code and the Ohio public high school pharmacy technician training program application were identified through the Ohio Board of Pharmacy website. Resources on employee training and pharmacy technician demand were used from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Forbes magazine, Association for Talent Development, and ExploreGate. Information pertaining to the approved high school training programs was identified from the program-specific websites. Related materials were searched for via PubMed and Google Scholar from 2000 to present. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Portions of the Ohio Administrative Code pertaining to pharmacy technician training and registration. Articles describing the cost of employer-based training and the growth of pharmacy technician demand. Data Synthesis: Training and registration requirements for pharmacy technicians have increased over the past decade. In Ohio, pharmacy technicians must now complete an approved training program and become either a registered or certified technician with the Board of Pharmacy. Technicians may complete either a nationally recognized, employer-based, or public high school training program prior to becoming a registered or certified pharmacy technician. Ohio public high school training programs must be Board approved and must prepare students for national certification. After completing a high school training program, pharmacy technicians are adequately prepared to enter the workforce with minimal training burden to potential employers. Conclusions: Newly approved Ohio high school training programs have the potential to fulfill the increased demand for pharmacy technicians at a decreased cost to both students and employers.