Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 1353

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning continuing education for pharmacy technicians.

Sponsors: Representatives Rivers, Cody, Schmick, Moeller, Orcutt, Ladenburg, Dahlquist, Harris, Moscoso, Green and Kenney.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requires certified pharmacy technicians to complete continuing education requirements.

Hearing Date: 2/3/11

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Certified pharmacy technicians provide assistance to licensed pharmacists by performing manipulative, non-discretionary functions associated with the practice of pharmacy. In addition, pharmacy technicians who meet criteria for employment, experience, training, and proficiency may perform specialized functions such as unit-dose medication checking and parenteral preparations. Pharmacy technicians may only practice while under the immediate supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

In order to be certified, a pharmacy technician must:

Pharmacy technicians are not subject to continuing education requirements.

Summary of Bill:

Certified pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education requirements established by the Board of Pharmacy.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 26, 2011.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.