National Pharmacy Technician Day 2023 | Primary care latest updates

Pharmacies are busy places. Pharmacy technicians perform vital duties in support of pharmacists — counting pills, entering patient data, waiting on customers, and explaining the use and effects of drugs and medical devices. Pharmacies couldn’t run without them, and they deserve a day of appreciation for all their tireless work! So on October 17, we celebrate the people behind the counter. 

National Pharmacy Technician Day recognises the invaluable contributions made by pharmacy technicians to patient health, safety and as an integral part of the healthcare team. It's also a day for pharmacy technicians to reflect on their careers and realise the impact they've had on patients and fellow pharmacy professionals.

Therefore, we want to say a huge thank you to all of the pharmacy technicians working so tirelessly every single day to help our patients across Northamptonshire, and we hope you will join us in thanking your local technicians for their hard work and dedication to providing quality healthcare!

Why National Pharmacy Technician Day is important:

• Pharmacy technicians improve patient safety. By ensuring that medications are dispensed correctly and in a timely manner, pharmacy technicians play an important role in patient safety. They are responsible for double checking prescriptions and maintaining accuracy in the preparation of medications, which helps reduce the risk of incorrect dosages or dangerous drug interactions. If it were not for their tireless attention to detail, our health could be in danger.
   
• Pharmacy technicians save time and money. Because they are experts in medication dispensing and handling insurance forms, pharmacy technicians can effectively reduce wait times at pharmacies. They also help cut down on costs by ensuring that correct information is obtained regarding insurers and drug coverage plans.
   
• Pharmacy technicians work long hours -The average pharmacy technician works long shifts — 8, 10 even 12 hours on their feet. And because many pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, pharmacy technicians often work nights and weekends, all so that we can have our medication as soon as we need it.
   
• Pharmacy technicians provide excellent customer service. The friendly and knowledgeable staff of a pharmacy are essential for creating a pleasant shopping experience. Pharmacy technicians are often on the front lines providing customers with answers to their questions about medications and offering advice about different treatment options.