Idaho Proposes Training, Certification Requirements for Pharmacy Technicians

10/23/2008

A proposed rule by the Idaho Board of Pharmacy would require pharmacy technicians and technicians-in-training to register with the board and complete a national certification exam, making it the latest in a growing number of states working to improve technician requirements to enhance patient safety.

ASHP sent a comment letter this week to the board in support of the certification and registration requirements. The Society suggested the board mandate completion of an ASHP-accredited education and training program as a prerequisite to certification by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). The board’s proposed rule requires certification by PTCB or the Institute for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians.

ASHP endorsed a provision that would enable a pharmacist-in-charge to operate the pharmacy at a staffing level judged to be in the best interest of the public and current staff.

The proposed rule, which would amend the state’s Pharmacy Practice Law, will go before the board for further consideration later this month. If approved by that body, it would go before the state legislature for approval early next year, and could take effect in July.

The board worked with the Idaho Pharmacy Leadership Council to draft the proposed rule. The council includes two members of the Idaho Society of Health-System Pharmacists, an ASHP state affiliate.