Elevating Pharmacy Technicians in Community Practice
Taylor Watterson, PharmD, PhD, discusses how to recognize the contribution of pharmacy technicians in day-to-day operations.
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the success of community pharmacies. Most pharmacists recognize that technicians are the backbone of daily operations, handling essential tasks and often dealing with difficult patient interactions. Despite this, they are frequently underpaid and underappreciated, which adds to their stress and frustration.
There are simple, meaningful ways to show appreciation. Saying thank you, encouraging breaks, and stepping in during tough situations can help technicians feel seen and supported. Pharmacists can also advocate for them by acknowledging unfair pay or treatment and being transparent about efforts to improve conditions.
Recognition matters—whether it’s posting their certifications, assigning leadership roles like inventory or immunization coordination, or simply trusting them with responsibilities they already handle. These gestures show that their contributions are valued. Even small things, like bringing coffee or leaving notes of thanks, can boost morale and build stronger team relationships.
While some issues require action at the organizational level, many forms of appreciation can happen daily. Supporting pharmacy technicians with kindness, recognition, and advocacy improves their job satisfaction and helps retain skilled, motivated team members.
Drug Topics recently sat down with Taylor Watterson, PharmD, PhD, assistant professor at the University of Illinois Chicago Retzky College of Pharmacy, to discuss how pharmacy technician contributions can be better recognized and appreciated in day-to-day operations. Watterson was an author on a recent study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, which investigated the well-being of community pharmacy technicians.
“I think, especially in the community setting, 99.9% of pharmacists will tell you that their pharmacy technicians are everything,” Watterson said. “They are the backbone of the pharmacy. They're critical. I think a lot of pharmacists know that and even some of the ones who maybe aren't as quick to acknowledge it for whatever reason also recognize that.”
