From far left, Kent Smith, Kevin Shufflebotham, Emily Eresman, Jason Openo and Elizabeth Yuill celebrate the opening of a new pharmacy technician lab space in the 13th Avenue Co-op Mall for the Medicine Hat College's new program that launched last fall.--HANDOUT PHOTO
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Medicine Hat College held a grand-opening ceremony Wednesday to celebrate a dynamic laboratory space used by students in the pharmacy technician program.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony included representatives from MHC, as well as regional partners.
Funding for the new educational space, located at Co-op Mall on 13th Avenue SE, was provided by the Yuill Family Foundation and will simulate a realistic work environment for students.
“This program and lab space reflects MHC’s commitment to meeting the needs of our region and preparing students for meaningful careers,” said Jason Openo, dean, Yuill School of Health and Community Services. “The pharmacy technician program is a response to a growing demand in health care and an opportunity to strengthen patient care across southeast Alberta.”
Last fall the college launched its two-year pharmacy technician diploma program, offering training for an industry in high demand across the province.
MHC is the only post-secondary institution in the southern portion of the province to offer the program.
The program of 20 students delivers the NorQuest College’s nationally accredited curriculum, and all practicums and work-integrated learning opportunities are regionally focused.
“We are extremely fortunate that Medicine Hat College recognized the growing need for skilled, pharmacy technicians in our region and across Alberta,” said Maryanne Forester, instructor and program co-ordinator. “I am incredibly proud of our students and deeply appreciative of all who have supported this program from the beginning.”
Foerster says pharmacies today cannot meet patient needs without the competence, precision and professionalism of pharmacy technicians, a vital role in the health-care system.
Students in the program are trained to compound, prepare and dispense prescriptions and pharmaceutical products under the direction of pharmacists.
Additionally, students use current technologies used by professionals, including laminar airflow hoods and Kroll computer software.
Employment opportunities include community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, health insurance companies as well as pharmaceutical companies and pharmacy suppliers.
