Studying for the PTCE exam is hard enough. Add in recent updates and things are sure to get confusing! Pocket Prep is here to help simplify the recent 2020 examination changes.
Changes to the 2020 Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) Program Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility requirements of taking the PTCE exam changed in 2020 to include two brand new pathway options. Before 2020, those wishing to take the PTCE exam were required to have a high school diploma or equivalent in order to sit for the exam. Now, the PTCB is offering two other eligibility pathways for technicians submitting certification applications beginning January 1, 2020.
- Pathway 1 – Completion of a PTCB-recognized education/training program: Students who successfully complete a PTCB-recognized education/training program will be eligible to apply for, and earn, their Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential.
- Pathway 2 – Equivalent work experience: Technicians who have completed at least 500 work hours will also be eligible to apply for, and earn, their Certified Pharmacy Technician (CphT) credential. These technicians must also attest to fulfilling the PTCB’s specified knowledge requirements.
Changes to the 2020 Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination (PTCE) Content Outline
Beginning January 1, 2020, the PTCE content will be organized into four knowledge areas rather than the current nine. The content will also focus only on essential knowledge that applies across practice settings.
New 2020 Content Outline
– Medications (40%)
– Federal Requirements (12.5%)
– Patient Safety and Quality Assurance (26.25%)
– Order Entry and Processing (21.25%)
Outdated Pre-2020 Content Outline
– Medication Order Entry and Fill Process
– Medication Safety
– Pharmacology for Technicians
– Pharmacy Billing and Reimbursement
– Pharmacy Information Systems Usage and Application
– Pharmacy Inventory Management
– Pharmacy Law and Regulations
– Pharmacy Quality Assurance
– Sterile and Non-sterile Compounding
So, how has Pocket Prep addressed these changes?
Pocket Prep has already updated the PTCE prep app to the new 2020 Content Outline.
