The Rotational Pharmacy Technician function is to support the day to day activities associated with the dispensing and distribution of medications and products in all areas of central outpatient pharmacy. Additionally, the incumbent provides cross-coverage for the Lead Controlled Substance Technician and coverage of technical functions that support Outpatient Clinical Pharmacists. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Education or Experience: A high school diploma or equivalent; or at least 3 months experience. English Language Proficiency: Pharmacy technicians appointed to direct patient care positions must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. Certification: Certification by the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is required at grades GS-6 and above. Loss of Credential. An employee in this occupation who fails to obtain licensure/certification/ registration within the required time frame, or who fails to maintain the required licensure/certification/ registration must be removed from the occupation, which may also result in termination of employment. For occupations which require an active credential (licensure/certification/registration) at all grade levels, at the discretion of the appointing official, an employee may be reassigned to another occupation for which he/she qualifies if a placement opportunity exists. For occupations which require an active credential (licensure/certification/registration) in assignments above the full-performance level only, at the discretion of the appointing official, an employee may remain at an appropriate lower grade level in the occupation when both of the following apply: the credential is not a requirement and a placement opportunity exists." Grade Determinations: Pharmacy Technician GS-6 Experience: 1 year at or equivalent to the next lower, and must fully meet the KSAs at the next lower level (GS-5), which include but are not limited to: Ability to operate and care for automated dispensing devices and equipment; Knowledge of, and ability to perform, aseptic technique; Knowledge of basic inventory procedures; and Knowledge of pharmacy information systems. AND Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: In addition to meeting the KSAs for the GS-5 level, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs Ability to solve problems and make recommendations, e.g., troubleshoot operational problems and refer for appropriate action Knowledge of the operation and care of automated equipment Knowledge of, and ability to follow, written instructions for compounding with aseptic technique for hazardous materials such as oncology agents Knowledge, and ability to perform, compounding with aseptic technique for routine sterile products Knowledge of policies and procedures for inventory management in specialized areas such as emergency carts Knowledge of the computerized prescription process demonstrated by the ability to input prescriptions and medication orders References: VA HANDBOOK 5005/15 PART II APPENDIX G28 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-6. Physical Requirements: Moderate lifting (15-44lbs), use of fingers, standing, specific visual requirements, depth perception ["Major Duties: Assists with the dispensing and distribution functions of technician staff in the central outpatient pharmacy area and remains proficient in each position. Performs all GS5 outpatient pharmacy technician roles in an accurate, efficient, and professional manner. This includes: Fill Stations, Mail Packing, ScriptPro, Window, Breaker, and Paper Collator. When not serving in these roles, the incumbent actively monitors workload and wait times to assist where needed. Accurately labels and dispenses medications. Ensures proper dispensing documentation is completed. Ensures outgoing mail is ready for daily pickup, including overnight and/or priority packages. Monitors prescription out-of-stocks to ensure timely and accurate fulfillment. Dispenses controlled substances according to current policies, procedures, and standards established by DEA, FDA, VA, and Joint Commission. Effectively utilizes the Veterans Integrated Systems Technology Architecture (VistA), Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) and ScriptPro computer systems and other automated pharmacy equipment and computer software systems. Provides cross-coverage for the Lead Controlled Substance Technician. Fills controlled substance prescriptions, completes record keeping and maintains accuracy of inventory. Reports any unusual occurrence or confirmed prescription or filling discrepancy to a supervisor. Assists the Outpatient Pharmacy Technician Supervisor in the implementation of all Pharmacy Service policies and procedures while assuring compliance with applicable standards (for example, Drug Enforcement Administration, Joint Commission Office of the Inspector General, etc) and VA handbooks and directives. Assists the Outpatient Pharmacy Technician Supervisor with all necessary pharmacy technician orientation and training occurs associated with the central outpatient pharmacy area. Ensures all equipment (e.g. dispensing automation, mailing equipment, etc.) is operated in accordance with safe and effective operating procedure and routine preventative maintenance is performed where appropriate. Serves as a point of contact for troubleshooting equipment issues as they arise. Reports actual and/or potential medication errors and adverse events utilizing the facility's reporting systems. Participates in quality improvement initiatives to promote patient safety. Effectively organizes workload to complete work within the assigned shift. Solves problems independently whenever possible, working with co-workers and other health care professionals. Discusses ongoing issues in a positive and constructive manner, utilizing continuous improvement techniques. Work Schedule: Full Time, Rotational; Days, Evenings, Weekends and Holidays Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #:000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Financial Disclosure Report: Not required **Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis until the closing date of this open continuous announcement, as long as vacancies exist.** A recruitment/relocation incentive has been authorized for highly qualified applicants. This occupational series is eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP). Repayment is limited to $10,000 annually, up to $60,000 in lifetime awards. Participants must sign a service agreement and maintain an acceptable level of performance to remain eligible for this program."]
The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system, providing care at 1,298 health care facilities, including 171 medical centers and 1,113 outpatient sites of care of varying complexity (VHA outpatient clinics), serving 9 million enrolled Veterans each year.