What is the primary function of a pharmacy technician?

The primary function of a pharmacy technician involves preparing and dispensing medications under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist. This role requires a solid understanding of pharmaceutical practices, including accurately measuring, mixing, compounding, and labeling medications. Technicians play a crucial part in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications in the right dosages, while also assisting with inventory management and customer service tasks within the pharmacy setting.

In contrast, diagnosing medical conditions and prescribing medications fall under the responsibilities of licensed healthcare professionals such as physicians and pharmacists, not pharmacy technicians. Providing patient therapy is often associated with healthcare providers who evaluate and manage treatment plans, which is also outside the scope of a pharmacy technician's duties. Therefore, preparing and dispensing medications is the essential and core responsibility of pharmacy technicians in a pharmacy environment.