The first Compounding PATH class was completed in March, representing an innovative approach to pharmacy technician education by providing high-quality compounding training. The program was launched as a partnership between the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), and PCCA, combining rigorous pre-study with a 2.5-day intensive, hands-on laboratory experience where technicians develop critical skills in nonsterile compounding, lab safety, measuring techniques, and equipment use. Students told NCPA they felt more confident in their ability to engage in compounding through the training, which met compliance and quality benchmarks.
The feedback from our first graduates highlights the program's unique ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice:
- Attendees reported that the course provided a supportive environment for growth. "I was initially worried and overwhelmed that I couldn't do it after years of not compounding. I came out more confident," said attendee Meredy Ayers.
- Seasoned industry professionals felt they had also grown through the training. Ashley Barton, a technician with over two decades in the field, noted, "Even with 22 years of experience, I came back from this course with valuable information that I'm excited to bring back to my team!"
- Many noted the usefulness of the teaching process, starting with classroom lessons followed by practice in the lab. Student Kris Baron raved about the lab sessions involving capsules, lollipops, and topicals, stating, "So much fun! Great reinforcement of all lab skills, safety, measuring, and equipment technique... I love how all formulas are complementary to the information we learned in lecture. This course is so well thought out and coordinated to combine all components of lab and theory."
As these graduates return to their pharmacies, they do so not only with ACPE-approved continuing education credits but with the preparation needed to pursue PTCB's Nonsterile Compounding Certificate and the prestigious CPhT-Advanced credential. The success of this first cohort marks the beginning of a new standard in compounding pharmacy care, ensuring that technicians are better equipped than ever to serve their patients with excellence.
