Lindsay’s Pharmacy Technician Journey – Role, Responsibilities & Future Plans

Tell us about your career journey so far

I have been with Boots for 12 years and am currently a Pharmacy Technician in Todmorden, West Yorkshire. Prior to this, I worked in various hospital pharmacies and aseptic units. Also, before my transition to pharmacy, I had been a nurse for three years on the general surgery wards. This background helped me immensely when joining community pharmacy as I had the background knowledge of how to deal with a range of ailments, as well as experience working with patients and healthcare professionals.

What does a typical day as a Pharmacy Technician look like?

My typical day as a Pharmacy Technician consists of accuracy checking a range of prescriptions, dispensing dosage boxes, destroying controlled drugs that are out of date, while also serving customers in the shop and helping with healthcare queries in person and over the phone. I also administer seasonal flu vaccinations and provide advice, as well as provide out the NHS Blood Pressure Check Service. I also do the usual day-to-day tasks of dispensing medicines either manually or using technology that has been built into the Patient Medication Record system. Answering the phone, ordering prescriptions and ensuring that the dispensing remains clean and clutter-free are also part of my role.

What do you love most about your role?

The main thing I love about my job is helping patients and customers by giving them help and advice. Having my nursing background also helps when people come in with minor medical needs such as small burns, cuts or swellings, etc.

Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your role that you’re proud of?

I feel Iike I make a difference regularly, especially when I get feedback from my manager and team members that I am doing a great job and are a key member of the team.

What’s next for you?

My next step in my role will be to take on a more clinical role alongside the pharmacist, supporting them with consultations and patient-focused services, which I will take on with great enthusiasm. I hope to keep building my knowledge through the opportunities Boots is giving me to learn new skills to advance in my role.