How long have you been a pharmacy technician?

I currently work at Walmart pharmacy and have been there for three years. Along with working at a retail pharmacy, I have my own prescription delivery service, Rx2Go, which I’ve been running for three years. I also have 14 years of experience in the hospital field. 

Why did you become a pharmacy technician?

After I graduated from high school, I wanted to jump right into finding a job, working, and making money. My mom said, “No way.” She knew that if I waited too long, I might not go to college. She is a nurse and got me interested in becoming a pharmacy technician. 

I looked into becoming a prescription courier for the hospital she worked at, but you needed training, so I went to Delgado Community College to become a pharmacy tech. 

I love people, patients, and customers all the same. Making sure people are adherent to taking their medications is my purpose. I’m in love with pharmacy. 

Making sure people are adherent to taking their medications is my purpose. I’m in love with pharmacy. 

What does a day in the life of a pharmacy technician look like?

I live close to where I work, only a 15 minute commute, even in morning traffic. My current schedule is 9-5, then I run my business after I am off work until 9 p.m., when I close. When I have a day off from Walmart, I’m working at Rx2Go all day.

In an average day, I have a lot of patient interactions. It’s busy, fast-paced, and on my feet all day. Pharmacy technicians work hard. It’s not just about slapping a label on a bottle. There is a system we go through to make sure that every customer receives the right medication, the right dosage, and there aren’t any drug interactions.

I started my business after I had been working at Walmart for three months. There were so many customers whose prescriptions were ready to pick up, but they couldn’t get there. They didn’t have a ride, couldn’t afford a ride, or had a health condition that causes mobility issues. I consider it my duty to make sure that people without transportation can get their prescriptions. I partner with community pharmacies that offer free delivery services.

What should customers know about saving money on their prescriptions?

The main thing they should know is that help is available. They don’t have to pay the full price out-of-pocket. A lot of people don’t know about pharmacy savings cards. They think that if insurance doesn’t cover a medication or if the copay is too high, they just can’t get it. I’ve seen the price drop from around $100 to $17 with a savings card.

What is your favorite moment as a pharmacy technician?

My favorite moment is actually winning this award. The job is so rigorous. I was shocked that I was chosen, and I’m still excited about it. It’s a highlight of my career. It feels really good to be recognized for doing my job.