PHARMACY SYSTEMS TECHNICIAN

Job Description Summary

Under the direct supervision of the Pharmacy Operations Manager, installs, maintains, troubleshoots, and liaises with relevant tech support groups for all automated software and equipment, including Omnicell, and Epic systems. Maintains pharmacy and Omnicell user databases; maintains archival usage data for audits and security purposes, and preventative maintenance records; performs preventive maintenance as required on pharmacy automation based upon regulations and manufacturer's recommendation. As a licensed Pharmacy Tech, must also maintain knowledge, understanding, and ability to perform all procedures required of a Pharmacy Technician, including filling and delivering of patient medication orders, medication manufacturing, supply requisitions and restocks, patient charges and credits, quality control, and preventative maintenance for medications; must also possess extensive knowledge of State and National pharmacy regulations. Effectively serves as an integrator of Pharmacy policy and procedures.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Coordinates all pharmacy automation implementation, required preventative maintenance and repair. Coordinates with vendors on ordering and returning hardware to assure Pharmacy has the necessary equipment to support the technology.

2. Reviews, troubleshoots and coordinates repairing of malfunctioning Pharmacy hardware. Investigates all issues with all Pharmacy equipment such as Omnicell, Medication Refrigerators, and other equipment maintained by the Pharmacy. Ensures Omnicell automated dispensing machines have 100% functional cubie drawers on a monthly basis. Responsible for telephone calls regarding equipment problems and medication additions to pharmacy automation.

3. Responsible for Maintaining the Omnicell user list and is the primary person to complete New Access Requests. Coordinates review of the Omnicell User List with Nurse Managers and other Managers to verify accuracy of active users. Responsible for updating EMS provider profiles in Omnicell ensuring only licensed providers are currently active.

4. Maintains and keeps record of all required audit reports generated from Omnicell. Also reviews and maintains vendor service logs including incident details and response time for all troubleshooting performed during the review period. Utilizes Omnicell reporting capabilities to identify trends when investigating Omnicell related issues.

5. Coordinates and Assists in the training of all who use pharmacy automated systems. Maintains and updates user training guides and training materials for different users such as Pharmacy technicians, Pharmacists and Nurses.

6. Performs periodic inspections of Omnicell/Medication fridges and ensures drawers are clean, organized and all parts fully functioning. Monitors and optimizes medication levels in the automated dispensing machines using current report system to improve pharmacy refill process and reduce inventory stock outs. Performs periodic audits of inventory and medication expiration dates and follows up with issues to the Pharmacy Technician Supervisor and/or Operations manager.

7. Performs all duties and responsibilities as described in the pharmacy technician job description.

8. Responsible for being the backup person for RX Auditor, Inventory Control and Billing. Assists in various Inventory Control tasks when assigned by the Pharmacy Technician Supervisor, Pharmacy Services Supervisor, and/or Operations Manager.

9. Performs anything else deemed necessary by their supervisor or Pharmacist on duty (other duties required).

10. Coordinates Bluesight (diversion control system) and assigns unclosed events to nurse managers.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education - Preferred

Certificate program in computer technology to include software, hardware and networking or equivalent on the job experience.
Prefer a bachelor's level of educational in computer science.

Minimum Work Experience

2 year acute care (hospital) pharmacy experience that includes experience with Pharmacy Automated Dispensing cabinets.
Required Licenses / Registrations

RPT - Registered Pharmacy Technician

Required Certifications -

CPhT - Certified Pharmacy Technician

Required additional Knowledge, and Abilities

Work requires professional and constructive interdepartmental interaction, as well as interaction with vendors and with all levels of Pharmacy staff.
Work requires the ability to be a self-starter that continually looks for ways to improve, organize, facilitate and simplify, not only for Informatics but also for National and State Pharmacy regulations and Pharmacy procedures.
Work requires the ability for independent decision making and the ability to assess when to seek the decision of a Pharmacy Supervisor.
Work requires strong communication skills coupled with the ability to exercise patience.