Starting as a tech at Walgreens: What do I need to know?

[Rx MPLS]

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I start as a tech at Walgreens next week in a newer, slower store with what seem like some really nice, helpful, smart employees. I've volunteered as a tech, but this will be my first paid position as a tech.

What do you wish you knew when you started as a tech at Walgreens (or anywhere else for that matter)? I won't qualify as an intern for one more year, so anything related to interning is irrelevant at this point.

Thanks! 🙂

 

[Rx MPLS]

No replies?

Maybe this thread was better suited for the Pharmacists/Pharmacy students forum.

 

[owlegrad]

Friday mornings are slow around here. Give it time.

My advice is to buy a pocket notebook and keep it with you at all times. Write down how to do stuff and never ask anyone to tell you how to do something more than once. I have given this advice several times, you may think about using the search function - there is a wealth of information about this topic at your disposal if you search for it.

 

[misty124]

I started as a tech a few weeks ago here's my advice:
1. Be knowledgeable about insurance terms.. for example: refill too soon and p.a. needed. Most customers think that a p.a. is caused by the pharmacy not wanting to dispense their medication & they'll get mad at you.. so youll need to be able to clearly explain that it is their insuance not wanting to give them their meds.
2. Ask the pharmacy manager to order a set of Sig code flashcards. If he/she wont order them, ask a someone to print the list of them all- its about 8 pgs long. Then make your own.
3. Ask your pharmacy manager about their specific rules/ preferences. some pharmacists don't want you dispensing medication in stock bottles. Some don't want uncertified techs calling insurance companies.
4. Try to learn which drugs are controls. That way youll know which need to be double counted and require a photo id when the rx is dropped off.

The most important thing is patience! Hope i was of some help.

 

[Rx MPLS]

Friday mornings are slow around here. Give it time.

My advice is to buy a pocket notebook and keep it with you at all times. Write down how to do stuff and never ask anyone to tell you how to do something more than once. I have given this advice several times, you may think about using the search function - their is a wealth of information about this topic at your disposal if you search for it.

Thanks!

I did do a search and read most of the advice, but most of the information was a bit dated (much was from 2008-2009). I do like your advice on the pocket notebook.