The state House of Representatives recently advanced legislation introduced Rep. Tony Deluca (D-Allegheny) that would create a list of criteria for pharmacy technicians in Pennsylvania.
“We’re grateful for the support and assistance provided by pharmacy technicians, but we currently have no oversight in Pennsylvania for a position that has a hand in filling residents’ prescriptions,” DeLuca said. “With an increase in prescriptions and a shortage of pharmacists, we need to – at the very least – ensure pharmacy technicians meet the minimal, universal standards, which is what this bill intends to do.”
Under House Bill 770, pharmacy technicians would be required to register with the Pennsylvania Board of Pharmacy, submit to a background check, be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or the equivalent and complete a training program approved by the Pharmacy Board.
“Errors cost more than money – they cost lives, too,” DeLuca said. “My bill seeks to diminish the possibility of errors and increase the likelihood of having qualified, trained pharmacy technicians in our pharmacies.”
Pennsylvania is one of four states that does not have required criteria or oversight for pharmacy technicians, DeLuca said.
H.B. 770 now goes to the state Senate for further consideration.