ACA Standards of Practice for
Pharmacy Technicians
ACA Pharmacy Technician Members must adhere to the Standards of Practice for the American College of Apothecaries. These standards are considered practice ideals and should be pursued by all ACA Members.
Standard 1
The pharmacy technician shall be in good standing with their respective State Board of Pharmacy, or whatever regulating agency for pharmacy technicians is applicable in their state. In addition, they should be in compliance with all local, state and federal regulations, related to pharmacy practice, as it applies to pharmacy technicians. Copies of any documents related to their licensure should be properly displayed in the pharmacy.
Standard 2
The pharmacy technician will assist and support licensed pharmacists in providing health care and medications to patients.
Standard 3
The pharmacy technicians must have a broad knowledge of pharmacy practice and be skilled in the techniques required to assist in daily activities. i.e.: input, order, stock, package, compound and/or otherwise prepare medications.
Standard 4
The pharmacy technician will grow their knowledge base by maintaining the appropriate continuing education requirements assigned by their individual state boards. ACA provides numerous ACPE accredited and PTCB accepted continuing educational activities including live and on-demand webinars, compounding training courses, and ACA annual or regional conferences. Go to www.acainfo.org for details.
Standard 5
The pharmacy technician shall be employed by a community pharmacy maintaining the professional standards of what is expected of an ACA Pharmacist Member/Fellow’s pharmacy.
Standard 6
The pharmacy technician will not be involved in agreements which provide financial incentives to prescribers to refer patients for services.
Standard 7
Any professional promotions or communications program should attempt to assure that all patients receive adequate information concerning services and charges.
Standard 8
A proper professional image shall be presented by the pharmacy technician to the patient. This image shall include neat, professional attire and operation of the prescription department in an orderly manner.