*A special thanks to P. Sardo, Pharm.D., B.S for her edits to this article.
Can Pharmacy Techs Administer Vaccines?
One particular point that might not be clear is: can pharmacy techs give vaccines? The answer varies because it involves both state and federal laws. The answer varies because it involves state and federal laws, state board of pharmacy rules, employer policies and training requirements.
If you are looking to go down this career path, let’s dive into this complex issue so that you know what to expect from your job.
Current Guidelines for Pharmacy Techs Administering Vaccines
Can pharmacy techs give vaccines? In the majority of states, the answer is yes. Keep in mind, however, that most states require that a pharmacist supervise the process.
The states that don’t allow pharmacy techs to give vaccines are:
- Texas
- Mississippi
- Michigan
- Indiana
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
The federal government granted temporary permissions during COVID-19 via the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act, which gave pharmacy technicians the opportunity to administer vaccinations, opening the door for states to create rules and guidance.
Allowing pharmacy techs to administer vaccines during emergencies allows more people to receive assistance without worrying about long lines or having to travel to other locations. It’s also important during flu season, as the demand for vaccinations can spike and leave some pharmacies struggling.
Not all pharmacy techs can administer vaccinations. Advanced training with certification is needed.
Training and Certification Requirements for Administering Vaccines
To be able to administer vaccinations, pharmacy techs will obtain immunization administration certification. They can do so via several programs. One example is the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.
Immunization administration certification ensures that the tech knows about the proper storage and management of vaccine doses and supplies and that they are familiar with immunization schedules.
The program teaches techs how to safely administer vaccines, and what personal protection equipment is necessary during the process.
With this training, you learn supply selection, including the right needle length to choose, along with various ways to offer vaccines. The program will teach you how to manage adverse reactions and other emergencies.
Another option you have is to get certification from the National Pharmacy Technician Association. This certification offers hands-on training. An additional option is through American Pharmacists Association.
To administer vaccines, employers may add additional requirements. CPR certification and active registration with the state board of pharmacy are requirements.
Scope of Vaccines Administered by Pharmacy Technicians
When trying to find the answer to the question, “Can pharmacy techs give vaccines?” keep in mind that pharmacy technicians aren’t allowed to administer all vaccines. The ones that the federal government allowed during the pandemic and continues to allow now include the influenza vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. Pharmacy techs must follow the standard administration schedules,and prepare and administer the vaccine. Generally, a licensed pharmacist must be present.
Pharmacy techs are also allowed to offer childhood vaccines to children between the ages of three and 18. They must follow the standard administration schedules, and prepare and administer the vaccine. Generally, a licensed pharmacist must be present.
How Can RxCe Help You With Your Pharmacy Tech Career?
At RxCe, we can help you achieve your career goals. We are an ACPE-approved provider of affordable courses. Alongside a variety of topics and options, we provide CE courses to enhance immunization and vaccine knowledge and provide affordable CE courses to help you take the next step forward in your career.
To develop further responsibilities and to be able to help patients and your team even more, consider continuing education courses. With RxCe, your credits are immediately reported to the CPE Monitor to avoid delays and complications.
