Change of Employment and Notifying the Board of Pharmacy

by Amanda
(Friso City, AL)

What do I do when I terminate with one pharmacy and beging working at another pharmacy? How do I get registered with the Board with my new pharmacy?

Answer:

That’s a great question, Amanda.

The topic of the process of changing jobs has not been discussed much on pharmacy-tech-resources.com. While I have written a number of pages on resumes, sample resumes, job interviewing, and cover letters, the questions you’ve asked have not been addressed here. I’m glad you asked it, and I hope my answer helps you.

There are many reasons for a person to change jobs. Better pay, better benefits, more desirable work hours, relocating, better coworkers; these are just a few reasons. Often the process can be a bit stressful. Or a lot stressful. Other times it is a natural progression from one to the next. Hopefully the transition for you is smooth and you are able to get brought up to speed quickly and you can use skills learned at your last job at your new one.
As long as your former job and your new job are still in the same state, there is no need to re-register with your State Board of Pharmacy.

However, it is important to update the BOP with your change in employment. You should be able to find a Change of Employment form (maybe even one you can submit online) on your state BOP’s website. It is also important that you take your license with you to your new job. It would have been posted in a visible place

in your last job. You will need to bring it to your new job so they can display it as required by the board. You definitely do not want to be working at the new job without your license posted and have a surprise state inspection there. That would really start you out with your new employer on the wrong foot. It might undo some of the work you’ve done to make a good impression on them. It would be embarrassing to say the least. You should at least carry your wallet card with you. Your wallet card is just a smaller version of your license. It would have your license number on it and could be shown to the state BOP inspector to prove you are registered with them.

Depending on your BOP’s rules, you must notify them within a reasonable time frame (such as within 30 days), but do be sure to check their website for that information. The pharmacy you are now employed at could help you with this question too. The other technicians and pharmacists will be knowledgeable and a good resource too. If you can’t find an answer from one of your coworkers, and you aren’t able to find the answer on the Board’s website, find their phone number on the site and then give them a call. They field questions like yours all the time and are happy to assist you.

I hope this answer has helped you and I wish you success in your change of employment!

Thanks for your question!