Dominique Braxton, CPhT, is a certified pharmacy technician for MedStar Health and AmerisourceBergen who recently completed the PharmTechX Program at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.
Given her love for her work as a pharmacy technician, it came as no surprise that Dominique wanted to acquire the additional knowledge and skills necessary to further advance her career. When she heard about the PharmTechX Program, she knew that it would help her take her career to the next level. Continue reading to learn more about her experience in this online practice-based certificate training program designed to prepare experienced pharmacy technicians for advanced clinical practice and leadership roles within their organizations.
What motivated you to pursue a career as a pharmacy technician?
For years, I knew that I wanted to be a part of the health care field. While I wanted a position in which my direct contact with patients would be somewhat limited, I still wanted to have the opportunity to make a strong impact on their care. After exploring a number of career options, I found working as a pharmacy technician to be a perfect match that would allow me to thrive in my professional life.
What attracted you to the PharmTechX program at the School of Pharmacy?
With the possibility of a lead technician role becoming available at MedStar, I knew that this would be the perfect opportunity to take the next step in my career. As a result, I began searching for continuing education programs that would provide me with additional knowledge and skills to help me stand apart from other technicians who might apply for the job. I remembered the PharmTechX Program at the School of Pharmacy, which was discussed during a live continuing education program that I recently attended. After reviewing the modules included within each certificate, I knew that it would help me achieve my goal.
How would you describe your experience in the program?
I very much enjoyed learning all of the new material. An added bonus of the program was that – because of its unique online format – I was able to complete the modules at times that were most convenient to me, and as a working professional, I found that aspect of the program to be invaluable. It was truly a pleasant experience.
What valuable skills or lessons have you learned in the program that will help you advance your career?
I believe that all of the skills that I acquired through the PharmTechX Program will be of great value as I continue to advance my career. However, what has most surprised me is that I have actually already had numerous opportunities to use the skills that I learned in medication reconciliation in my day-to-day work at MedStar.
What is your advice to prospective students who might be interested in enrolling in the program?
I would encourage any prospective student who is looking to take the next step in his or her career to register for the program. Speaking from firsthand experience, I know that the knowledge and skills that you will obtain will be invaluable to your career.
Interested in learning about the experience of other pharmacy technicians in the PharmTechX program? Explore the "Technician Spotlight" for Richard D'Ambrisi, AA, CPhT.