Inside the Pharmacy Technician Struggle | Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, National Pharmacy Technician Association

Introduction: In this episode, we sit down with Mike Johnston, the founder and CEO of the National Pharmacy Technician Association. We discuss the unique challenges faced by pharmacy technicians, the dynamics of the community pharmacy landscape, and how we can foster a more supportive environment within the industry. Johnston shares his personal journey and his innovative ventures aimed at enhancing the pharmacy profession.

Key Points:

• Johnston narrates his personal experience with independent community pharmacies and the inception of the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA). He reveals how a tutoring class for pharmacy technicians sparked the formation of NPTA.

• The discussion explores Johnston's company, Mock Meds, which manufactures fake drugs for educational purposes, providing realistic training for students in nursing and pharmacy schools.

• Johnston emphasizes the struggles of pharmacy technicians in large chain pharmacies. He criticizes the lack of value these corporations place on their staff and the consequent implications for both employees and customers.

• The episode delves into the potential for independent community pharmacies to attract skilled technicians amidst the current chaos in chain pharmacies. Johnston advocates for the recognition of technicians' value in both the clinical and business aspects of pharmacy.

• Johnston expresses his frustration with online complaints that don't contribute to positive change. He urges dissatisfied individuals to seek out proactive solutions and limit negativity.

• The conversation highlights the significance of respect and appreciation in the relationships between pharmacists and technicians. Johnston points out the necessity for mutual understanding and effective communication in order to foster a healthier work culture.

• Johnston outlines his mission to connect high-performing technicians with independent community pharmacies. His initiative focuses on career development, mentorship programs, and investment in technician development to improve patient care and reduce turnover costs.

  
  

  https://www.pharmacytechnician.org/

  
  

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