What You Need to Know About Continuing Education for Pharmacy Technicians in Minnesota

If you’re a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, you probably already know that maintaining your certification isn’t just about passing an exam or jumping through a few hoops. You’ve got to keep learning—specifically, through continuing education (CE). But how much CE do you actually need, and why is it so crucial? Let’s break it down together!

The Big Question: How Many Hours?

First things first, let’s tackle the burning question: What’s the minimum number of continuing education hours required for technicians every 2 years? If you guessed 20 hours, congrats! You’re spot on! This requirement is designed to help you stay up to date with the dynamic world of pharmacy practice.

Now, you might wonder, why 20 hours? In an ever-evolving field like pharmacy, keeping your knowledge fresh is key. With new medications, changing regulations, and advancements in technology popping up all the time, staying informed ensures you’re providing the best care possible.

Maintaining Your Edge

Think of it this way: would you trust a mechanic who never took a day of training since they got their license? Probably not! The same principle applies in healthcare. The more informed you are, the better equipped you are to help your patients and navigate the intricacies of pharmacy work.

Lifelong Learning Matters

The Minnesota Board of Pharmacy has set these continuing education requirements to foster lifelong learning among pharmacy technicians. It’s not just about meeting a mandate; it’s about your professional growth. Completing your 20 hours of CE every two years helps enhance your professional skills and ensures that you are up to date with the latest practices and advancements in your field.

What Counts as Continuing Education?

Alright, you’re in, but what kind of activities count toward those 20 hours? Here’s a quick rundown:

• Workshops and seminars: Local and national workshops that cover significant topics in pharmacy.
• Online courses: Many institutions offer ACE (Approved Continuing Education) accredited online courses that can be completed at your convenience—great for your busy schedule!
• In-person classes: Nothing beats the feeling of interacting with fellow technicians and industry leaders, right?
• Presentations: Have something to share? Presenting can count toward your CE hours, too!

Avoiding the Common Pitfalls

Now, while 20 hours seems manageable, some technicians might mistakenly think that they can get away with fewer hours. It’s essential to remember that the incorrect options—like 10, 15, or even 30 hours—aren’t what Minnesota requires. Thinking about cutting corners? Don’t! Not only could you risk your certification, but you’d also be missing out on invaluable learning experiences that could enhance your career.

Keeping Your Certification Valid

It's not just about hitting that 20-hour mark—it's about ensuring your credentials stay valid to practice safely and effectively. Compliance with the state's regulations ensures you carry the essential competencies needed for your role, boosting confidence in your work and ultimately aiding your patients more effectively.

Getting Creative with CE

Let’s face it: You know what? Sometimes, slogging through those hours can feel like a chore. Here’s the thing, though—try to look for engaging ways to meet those requirements. Sign up for a course that excites you or explore topics that align with your interests or career goals. Make the most of it!

Final Thoughts

In summary, completing those 20 continuing education hours every two years isn’t just a checkbox on your list. It's about growing your expertise, improving patient care, and ensuring that you’re not just part of the system but a vital contributor to your team and the community.

So, gear up, stay curious, and embrace the journey of learning!

Remember, as a pharmacy technician in Minnesota, your commitment to ongoing education is not only beneficial for you but crucial for the health and wellbeing of the patients you serve. “Knowledge is power,” right? So, let’s keep that power flowing!