Medication History Technician Specialist
About The Position
The Pharmacy Medication History Technician serves as an integral part of the pharmacy-managed medication reconciliation practice model. Reporting to the Pharmacy Manager and working under pharmacist supervision and, at RIH and TMH, the direction of the Medication History Pharmacy Technician Group Leader, the technician obtains and compiles accurate, detailed home medication histories and allergy information for patients being admitted to the hospital. The role uses relevant sources such as patient and family interviews and contact with outpatient pharmacies, extended care facilities, and provider offices, and documents verified information in the electronic medical record (EMR). The technician also reviews and updates allergy information, communicates professionally and compassionately with patients, families, and health care providers, and participates in quality improvement and medication safety activities. Employees are expected to model Brown University Health’s values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence and its core Success Factors: Instill Trust and Value Differences, Patient and Community Focus, and Collaborate. The position is initially based in the Emergency Department or Admitting Department at The Miriam Hospital. Work takes place in a fast-paced, changing environment and may involve extended periods of standing and walking. The role requires computer use, keyboarding, and navigating EMR screens. Work is performed independently within department policies; complex issues requiring clarification are referred to a supervisor. There is no supervisory responsibility. The role is per diem, with variable shifts and 8-hour daily shifts.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Current unrestricted Rhode Island Pharmacy Technician licensure.
- At least one year of pharmacy technician experience in an outpatient pharmacy setting.
- Either current National Pharmacy Technician Certification (CPhT), or, if not currently certified, sitting for the CPhT exam within the first six months of hire and achieving and maintaining certification within 12 months of hire.
- Strong customer service presence and verbal and written communication skills for interacting with patients, families, physicians, LIPs, RNs, and ancillary support staff.
- Strong focused and active listening skills, including the ability to listen attentively despite distractions and identify key points.
- Computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, email, calendar applications, internet web applications, and multiple pharmacy and system-wide applications.
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain focus when compiling and documenting medication lists and verifying allergies.
- Ability to multitask and reprioritize while maintaining accuracy and customer service standards.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment and, as needed, stand and walk for extended periods.
- Visual acuity and manual dexterity to operate a computer and enter data into the EMR.
- Successful completion of a drug screen in accordance with Rhode Island State Law for new hires.
Nice To Haves
- Completion of one to two years of college.
Responsibilities
- Obtain and compile current, detailed home medication histories, including medication names, doses and forms, frequencies, and routes for prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and complementary and alternative medications.
- Obtain and compile patient allergy information, including reactions experienced.
- Use relevant information sources, including patient and family interviews and contact with outpatient pharmacies, extended care facilities, and provider offices.
- Communicate medication history discrepancies to a provider and/or pharmacist, hand off unresolved issues, and track follow-up to closure.
- Refer suspected actual, prevented, and near-miss medication errors to a pharmacist for appropriate follow-up and reporting.
- Serve as a resource to pharmacists regarding home medication histories and related information, and provide follow-up as appropriate.
- Accurately document verified medication histories and related information in the EMR.
- Verify and update patient allergy information in the EMR, including relevant details.
- Complete medication history, allergy verification, and EMR documentation efficiently, promptly, and accurately.
- Respond to medication history requests from providers, nurses, and others; manage and triage requests and ensure timely follow-up.
- Provide high-quality, compassionate customer service in interactions with patients, families, outreach contacts, and team members.
- Direct or communicate patient and family questions outside the technician’s scope to the appropriate provider or staff member.
- Interact professionally and effectively with providers, nurses, and support personnel.
- Participate in quality assurance, quality assessment and improvement, and medication safety initiatives related to the medication reconciliation practice model.
- Identify opportunities to improve quality, safety, regulatory, or financial outcomes using experience-based knowledge.
- Rotate among applicable medication history assignments and work shifts.
- Demonstrate professionalism for oneself and others.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
