Development and implementation of an advanced pharmacy technician leadership program.

Area of Science:

• Health-system pharmacy administration
• Pharmacy technician professional development

Background:

• Pharmacists have established administrative and leadership residency programs for decades.
• Pharmacy technicians increasingly hold leadership positions, yet lack similar formal training opportunities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop administrative and leadership skills in pharmacy technicians.
• To implement a 6-month advanced technician leadership program.

Main Methods:

• Adapted a health-system pharmacy administrative and leadership (HSPAL) residency framework for pharmacy technicians.
• Implemented a 6-month program with rotations in inpatient and ambulatory leadership.
• Utilized both pharmacist and technician leaders as preceptors.

Main Results:

• Graduated 6 technicians over 3 years, with 5 assuming leadership roles.
• Reduced time to fill technician supervisor openings by 80%.
• Graduates reported significant improvements in management, functional skills, and communication.

Conclusions:

• An advanced, pharmacy technician-specific leadership program yields significant benefits for health-system pharmacy departments.
• The program establishes a pipeline of qualified technician leaders.
• Investing in technician leadership development is crucial for operational efficiency and staff advancement.