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Is the starting pay higher for techs with certain certifications already?
Is the starting pay for techs higher with CPHT certifications from the NHA and PTCB, BLS, Blood borne Pathogens and HIPAA certifications? I ask because I am going into a programme where I can get all of these certifications and I want to know which ones are most valuable from an employer perspective for a tech to have.
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4 answers
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Nick’s Answer
PTCB certification usually gives you a slightly higher salary. Definitely ask for a higher wage upon hire if you are certified. In some states it may be required by the board of pharmacy, in which case your employer will pay or reimburse you for any required certifications. Certifications are one piece of the puzzle, competency, work ethic, and customer service are integral to your career.
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Tejas’s Answer
Generally, the starting pay is definitely higher for techs with certifications. However, as a pharmacy manager, I put equal if not greater weight on relevant experience and length of service at previous jobs.
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Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Lavernius!
Yes and no. No, you won't start at top tier salary. Yes, credentials ABSOLUTELY help employability and a small salary bump. CPhT and BLS are both very valuable for hospital employment. That said, experience is also a huge factor in negotiating salary.
Most retail and hospital systems, in my experience, have tiers for salary commensurate with experience.
If your program offers internships or externships, definitely get into a hospital or compounding pharmacy for the most well rounded experience (and a competitive edge for getting employed within one upon completion!)
Good luck!!
Yes and no. No, you won't start at top tier salary. Yes, credentials ABSOLUTELY help employability and a small salary bump. CPhT and BLS are both very valuable for hospital employment. That said, experience is also a huge factor in negotiating salary.
Most retail and hospital systems, in my experience, have tiers for salary commensurate with experience.
If your program offers internships or externships, definitely get into a hospital or compounding pharmacy for the most well rounded experience (and a competitive edge for getting employed within one upon completion!)
Good luck!!
Updated
Parixit’s Answer
May be! Not necessarily. It might help you to get a job sooner! However many companies pay for certifications when you work for them. I would suggest not spending so much money for the certification. If you can do it by yourself, do it then. Don’t get into the expensive program.