How Much Do Pharmacy Technicians Make in NY 2017?
In 2017, the average salary for pharmacy technicians in New York was approximately $32,000 per year, though this figure varied significantly based on experience, location, and employer. This article delves into the factors affecting pharmacy technician salaries in NY during that year.
Pharmacy Technicians: An Essential Role in Healthcare
Pharmacy technicians are vital members of the healthcare team. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to dispense medications, manage inventory, and assist patients. Their responsibilities often include:
- Measuring and preparing medications
- Entering prescription information into computer systems
- Verifying patient information and insurance details
- Managing inventory and ordering supplies
- Answering phone calls and assisting customers
A well-trained and efficient pharmacy technician is crucial for the smooth operation of a pharmacy, allowing pharmacists to focus on more complex tasks like patient counseling and medication management.
Factors Influencing Pharmacy Technician Salaries in NY
Several factors impact how much a pharmacy technician could earn in New York State in 2017. These include:
- Experience: Entry-level technicians typically earn less than those with several years of experience. More experienced technicians often handle more complex tasks and may supervise junior staff, leading to higher compensation.
- Location: Salaries varied across different regions of New York. For instance, pharmacy technicians in metropolitan areas like New York City generally earned more than those in rural areas due to the higher cost of living and greater demand.
- Employer: The type of employer also plays a role. Pharmacy technicians working in hospitals or specialized clinics often receive higher salaries compared to those working in retail pharmacies.
- Certification: While not always mandatory in New York, holding a national certification, such as the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), can increase earning potential.
- Education and Training: Completing a formal pharmacy technician training program can also boost earning potential by providing specialized knowledge and skills.
Regional Salary Variations Across New York
The following table provides an overview of the estimated average annual salary for pharmacy technicians in different regions of New York in 2017 (approximations based on available data and cost of living):
| Region | Estimated Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| New York City | $35,000 – $38,000 |
| Long Island | $33,000 – $36,000 |
| Albany | $30,000 – $33,000 |
| Buffalo | $29,000 – $32,000 |
| Rochester | $29,000 – $32,000 |
| Syracuse | $28,000 – $31,000 |
Note: These are estimated averages and actual salaries may vary.
Benefits Packages for Pharmacy Technicians
Beyond the base salary, pharmacy technicians in NY often receive benefits packages that can significantly impact their overall compensation. Common benefits include:
- Health insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Paid time off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Retirement plans: 401(k) or other retirement savings options.
- Life insurance: Coverage in case of death or disability.
- Continuing education: Support for professional development and certifications.
- Prescription Drug Benefits: Discounts or fully paid prescription medications.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Pharmacy technicians can advance their careers through additional training, certifications, and experience. Some potential career paths include:
- Lead Pharmacy Technician: Supervising other technicians and managing pharmacy operations.
- Specialized Pharmacy Technician: Focusing on specific areas such as sterile compounding, oncology pharmacy, or nuclear pharmacy.
- Pharmacy Technician Instructor: Training new pharmacy technicians in educational settings.
- Pharmacy Automation Specialist: Working with automated dispensing systems and technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Was certification required to work as a pharmacy technician in NY in 2017?
No, national certification was not a legal requirement to work as a pharmacy technician in New York in 2017. However, many employers preferred or required certification, and holding a CPhT credential often led to higher earning potential.
What was the most common type of employer for pharmacy technicians in NY in 2017?
In 2017, retail pharmacies (such as chain drugstores and independent pharmacies) were the most common type of employer for pharmacy technicians in New York. However, hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities also employed a significant number of technicians.
Did unions play a role in pharmacy technician salaries in NY in 2017?
Yes, some pharmacy technicians in New York were members of labor unions, particularly those working in large healthcare systems or retail chains. Union contracts typically negotiated higher wages and better benefits for their members.
What were some common job titles besides “pharmacy technician” in NY in 2017?
While “pharmacy technician” was the most common title, other similar job titles included pharmacy assistant, pharmacy clerk, and pharmacy tech. The specific responsibilities and required qualifications could vary slightly depending on the title and employer.
How did the average salary for pharmacy technicians in NY compare to the national average in 2017?
Generally, the average salary for pharmacy technicians in New York was higher than the national average in 2017, reflecting the higher cost of living in the state.
What were some of the challenges faced by pharmacy technicians in NY in 2017?
Some of the challenges included high workloads, demanding customers, and the need to stay up-to-date with new medications and technologies. Technicians also faced pressure to accurately and efficiently dispense medications while adhering to strict regulations.
Did the Affordable Care Act (ACA) have any impact on pharmacy technician salaries in NY in 2017?
While the ACA likely increased the demand for healthcare services overall, its direct impact on pharmacy technician salaries in New York in 2017 was not clearly documented. The increase in insured individuals may have indirectly led to more prescription volume and thus a need for more pharmacy staff.
How did gender affect pharmacy technician salaries in NY in 2017?
While gender pay gaps can exist in various professions, there is no conclusive data specifically indicating how gender affected pharmacy technician salaries in NY in 2017. Factors like experience, education, and negotiation skills likely played a more significant role.
What skills were most valued by employers of pharmacy technicians in NY in 2017?
Employers valued skills such as accuracy, attention to detail, strong communication skills, computer proficiency, and the ability to work effectively in a team. Knowledge of pharmacy law and regulations was also highly valued.
Were there any state-specific regulations that impacted pharmacy technician salaries in NY in 2017?
New York State did not have specific state regulations dictating minimum or maximum salaries for pharmacy technicians in 2017 beyond general labor laws regarding minimum wage. Market forces and employer policies primarily determined salary levels.
What was the unemployment rate for pharmacy technicians in NY in 2017?
Precise unemployment rates specifically for pharmacy technicians are difficult to determine. However, the overall unemployment rate in New York State was relatively low in 2017, suggesting a generally favorable job market for healthcare professionals, including pharmacy technicians.
Where could aspiring pharmacy technicians in NY get training in 2017?
Aspiring technicians could receive training through community colleges, vocational schools, and some retail pharmacy chains. Many programs offered both classroom instruction and hands-on experience through internships or externships. Completion of a formal training program often improved job prospects and earning potential.