Texas professionals will have another certification option in growing field

LEAWOOD, Kan. (February 13, 2017) – The state of Texas has approved the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT®) as a certification meeting the professional requirements of this growing field. Prior to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (the Board) approving the ExCPT on February 7, the state recognized only one certification program.

“I am pleased that the Texas State Board of Pharmacy has joined the majority of states across the nation that promote public safety and competition when it comes to pharmacy technician training,” said Texas State Representative Dan Flynn (R-Canton). “This critical step will allow more Texans an affordable option to enter this field of work.”

The ExCPT provides a national credential as a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). In Texas, certification is required for all pharmacy technicians. With the Board’s approval of the ExCPT, those entering the pharmacy technician profession in Texas, for the first time, have a choice of CPhT certification programs. Through certification, pharmacy technicians demonstrate knowledge and competency in the core tasks they will be performing, which in turn enhances patient safety.

The approval of the ExCPT certification program provides greater access to pharmacy technician jobs in Texas, where demand for these critical healthcare positions is growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas employed more than 32,000 pharmacy technicians as of May 2015. Ensuring that there are enough qualified pharmacy technicians is essential, since the Bureau estimates that more than 400,000 pharmacy technicians will be needed in the United States by 2024.

“With this vote, Texas technicians and their employers are now empowered to determine the training and certification path that best meets their need,” said Lyndsey McDonald, director of strategic alliances at NHA. “NHA is the only certification provider that requires pharmacy technicians complete training before sitting for the certification exam. NHA also recognizes that candidates can obtain quality training through more than one pathway. Not only does this vote ensure a choice of certification providers but multiple pathways for technician training.”

Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), the NHA ExCPT certification is recognized by numerous Boards of Pharmacy throughout the United States, including recent approvals by California and Arizona. The NHA regulatory and advocacy team works with regulators, legislators, legislative representatives and healthcare professionals to advocate for access to a better future for those pursuing a frontline healthcare career such as a pharmacy technician.

“NHA and the Texas State Board of Pharmacy have worked cooperatively for a very long time and the Board’s recent decision demonstrates our shared commitment to rigorous standards and quality patient care,” said McDonald.