Happy Pharmacy Technician Day to all the hardworking and dedicated pharmacy technicians out there! Today, I want to share my journey as a female pharmacy technician and the challenges I’ve faced over the years. I hope my story can inspire and empower others to challenge the norm, break boundaries, and acknowledge the incredible contributions of pharmacy technicians.
Starting Out- Fuelled by Passion
Like many of you, I embarked on my career as a pharmacy technician with enthusiasm. I was determined to make a positive impact on patient care and play my part in the health and care system. However, it didn’t take long for me to notice that our profession often flew under the radar. The work we do, the crucial role we play in the healthcare process, was often overlooked or under appreciated.
Discrimination and Doubt
Throughout my career, I’ve faced discrimination simply because of my role as a pharmacy technician or female or even both! I’ve had my work questioned, my expertise dismissed, and my potential underestimated. It’s disheartening to realise that the profession you’re passionate about isn’t as widely recognised or respected as it should be. But I didn’t let these challenges deter me.
Championing the Profession
I chose to champion the profession and prove that being a pharmacy technician is not a lesser role but an essential one. It’s through our dedication, accuracy, and commitment that patients receive the right care whether that’s working on the frontline or at afar.
Venturing into New Territories
My determination to excel and make a difference led me to explore new opportunities. I transitioned into the digital health and clinical safety field. This was a significant step out of my comfort zone, but it opened countless doors and brought new challenges. In this journey, I became an expert in clinical safety and digital transformation, specialising in Shared Care Records.
The Foundation for Success
I couldn’t have achieved this without the foundation laid at the start of my career as a pharmacy technician. My registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPHC) was a crucial step that allowed me to explore these new opportunities. My continued commitment to yearly CPD and revalidation has ensured that I stay at the top of my game.
Empowering Others
My experiences have fuelled my passion to empower others, especially women, young and old, to step out of their comfort zones and acknowledge their worth. You are enough, and your contributions matter. Don’t let anyone undermine your capabilities.
A Message to All Pharmacy Technicians
I want to acknowledge all the pharmacy technicians out there. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to patient care do not go unnoticed. You are an essential part of the health and care system, and your contributions are invaluable. Lets celebrate our journey’s, our accomplishments, and the progress we’ve made. Let us continue to challenge the norm, break boundaries, and inspire the next generation of pharmacy technicians. Together, we can make a significant impact on the world of healthcare in many forms and continue to provide the best care for our patients.
