Master the CVS Pharmacist Training Program
Are you considering becoming a pharmacist? CVS Health offers a comprehensive CVS Pharmacist Training Program that will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in this role. In this blog post, explore the program, the path to becoming a CVS pharmacist, retail pharmacist responsibilities, career development opportunities, and the benefits of working in this rewarding field.

Short Summary
The CVS Pharmacist Assistant Training Program is a comprehensive 120-day program designed to provide new pharmacist assistants with the necessary skills and knowledge.
CVS Health provides financial support, competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits to employees who take the national certification exam.
The company promotes diversity by appointing a Chief Diversity Officer and partnering with community organizations to create opportunities for underrepresented communities.
CVS Pharmacist Training Program
Imagine starting a new career on a solid foundation of training and support. That's what the CVS Pharmacist Training Program can offer. Designed to immerse new technicians in a comprehensive learning experience, this 120-day program includes:
Customer Service Skills
Understanding Pharmacy Operations
Patient Safety
Pharmacy Workflows
Inventory Management
For those looking for a Pharmacy Assistant Program, this program is a great choice because it ensures that CVS Pharmacy Assistants are fully prepared for their responsibilities within the company.
CVS Health recognizes the importance of providing high-quality training to its pharmacists. This commitment to training ensures that all associates are well-equipped to perform their duties and provide exceptional service to patients and customers. The CVS Pharmacist Training Program focuses on both technical and interpersonal skills, laying the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.
CVS Health's Commitment to Training
CVS Health is committed to providing pharmacists with quality training to ensure they are well-equipped to perform their jobs. One notable initiative is the CVS Registered Apprenticeship Program, which provides low-income job seekers with the necessary training and experience to pursue a career as a pharmacist. The CVS Apprenticeship Program further demonstrates CVS Health's commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
In addition to the Apprenticeship Program, CVS Health offers a variety of training opportunities for pharmacists. These include regional training courses and resources to prepare for national certification exams. The company is committed to employee growth and development and ensures that all pharmacists have access to the tools and resources they need to be successful in their jobs.
Key Components of the Program
The CVS Pharmacist Training Program covers a wide range of topics, ensuring that all technicians have solid technical and interpersonal skills. The program focuses on customer service skills, including communication, problem solving, and customer service techniques. These skills are essential to providing excellent care to patients and maintaining a positive work environment.
Pharmacy operations is another key component of the program. Technicians will learn about pharmacy workflow, medication safety, and pharmacy regulations. In addition, the program emphasizes the importance of accuracy and safety in medication preparation and dispensing to address patient safety. The program also covers inventory management, emphasizing the importance of accurate inventory tracking and ordering.
By addressing these key aspects of the pharmacist assistant role, the CVS Pharmacist Assistant Training Program ensures that all assistants are fully prepared to contribute to the success of the pharmacy.
Path to Becoming a CVS Pharmacist
Technicians aspiring to become CVS pharmacists must first complete the company's in-house training program, even if they already hold certification in the field. This comprehensive training ensures that all technicians are fully prepared for a position at CVS and provides a solid foundation for future career advancement with the company.
Once the training program is complete, technicians can begin the application process and may be required to complete an apprenticeship program. This hands-on approach to training, coupled with the support of experienced colleagues and national certification preparation resources, lays the foundation for a successful career as a CVS pharmacy technician.
Application Process
The application process for aspiring CVS pharmacists begins with submitting an application for a pharmacist position. Candidates may be required to complete an apprenticeship program, such as the CVS Registered Apprenticeship Program, which provides additional training and support to help technicians successfully perform their jobs.
The apprenticeship program consists of two components: classroom training modules covering topics such as customer service, pharmacy operations, patient safety and inventory management, and an externship, which provides on-the-job paid training in the candidate's store and typically culminates in a permanent job offer. These components form the foundation of comprehensive training program.
This combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience ensures that pharmacy technicians are fully prepared to excel in their jobs at CVS.
On-the-job training
CVS' 120-day on-the-job training program is designed to equip new pharmacists with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful on the job. During this time, technicians receive hands-on training and support from experienced colleagues to help them master the skills of their jobs quickly and effectively.
This training covers a wide range of topics, including:
Customer service skills
Pharmacy operations
Patient safety
Other relevant skills
By providing comprehensive on-the-job training, CVS ensures that all pharmacy technicians are well-equipped to perform their duties and contribute to the company's success.
National Certification Preparation
CVS Health strongly encourages pharmacy technicians to obtain national certification and offers additional courses (such as regional training courses) and materials to help colleagues prepare for the national exam. CVS Health offers a great opportunity for its colleagues. They will sponsor eligible employees to take the exam and cover the cost. This support not only demonstrates CVS's commitment to employee growth and development, but also helps ensure that all technicians are fully prepared to excel in their jobs.
After obtaining certification, the national average hourly wage for new retail pharmacy technicians is reported to be between $11 and $14. Such a competitive salary, coupled with the comprehensive training and support provided by CVS Health, makes a career as a CVS pharmacy technician an attractive option for those interested in the field.
Advancement Opportunities for CVS Pharmacists
With a strong foundation of training and support, CVS pharmacy technicians have numerous career development and growth opportunities. From supervisory positions to continuing education and specialization, technicians can explore a variety of career paths within the company.
By providing comprehensive training, ongoing support, and encouragement for further education and certification, CVS Health helps ensure that all pharmacy technicians have the tools and resources they need to succeed in their jobs and achieve their career goals.
Continuing Education and Specialization
CVS Health supports employees who wish to pursue further education or specialize in a specific area of pharmacy. Pharmacy technicians (also known as pharmacists) can choose to earn additional certifications, such as those offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), or even pursue a bachelor's degree in pharmacy technology. This additional education can give technicians a more comprehensive understanding of the field and the opportunity to specialize in an aspect of pharmacy or pursue a career in research or teaching.
By fostering a culture of learning and growth, CVS Health ensures that all pharmacists have access to the resources and opportunities they need to excel in their careers and contribute to the company's mission of providing excellent care to patients.
Benefits of Being a CVS Pharmacist
There are many benefits to being a CVS pharmacist, including:
Competitive pay
Comprehensive benefits
Healthy work-life balance
Supportive work environment
Career development opportunities
The satisfaction of knowing they are making a difference in the lives of the patients they serve.
In addition to the tangible benefits of working as a CVS pharmacist, employees enjoy the intangible rewards of being part of a company that values diversity, inclusion, and employee growth. By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, CVS Health helps ensure that all employees have the opportunity to succeed and contribute to the company's success.
Compensation & Benefits
CVS Pharmacy Technician salaries are competitive, starting at approximately $11.00 per hour and averaging up to $15.00 per hour. In addition to competitive wages, technicians enjoy comprehensive benefits, including:
Health insurance
Paid time off
Insurance options
401(k) retirement plan
These competitive compensation and benefits packages demonstrate CVS Health's commitment to attracting and retaining top talent in the pharmacy industry. By offering a comprehensive benefits package, CVS Health helps ensure that all pharmacy technicians have the resources and support they need to be successful in their jobs.
What is the highest salary for a CVS pharmacy technician?
The highest salary for a CVS pharmacist is $42,500 (75th percentile). The average hourly wage ranges from $17 to $21, with an average total cash compensation of $19 per hour.
What elements does the CVS apprenticeship training program include?
The CVS apprenticeship training program includes classroom and online instruction, professional mentoring, on-the-job training, pre-employment support, and post-employment retention support.
The program provides a comprehensive preparation for individuals to succeed in the retail industry. It is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace. Participants receive hands-on training and mentoring from experienced professionals and have access to resources.
How long does pharmacist assistant training at CVS take?
It takes approximately 14 weeks of classroom instruction and 6 weeks of clinical on-the-job training to become a pharmacist at CVS. Training includes topics such as customer service, pharmacy operations, patient safety, pharmacy workflow, inventory management, and prescription medication measurement.
Does CVS Health offer any support to pharmacists seeking national certification?
Yes, CVS Health offers support to pharmacists seeking national certification, including providing courses, materials, and sponsoring eligible colleagues (covering the cost of the exam).
Summary
In summary, the CVS Pharmacist Training Program provides a comprehensive and supportive learning experience for those looking to begin a career in pharmacy. From the initial training program to ongoing professional development and career advancement opportunities, CVS Health is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce that delivers exceptional care to patients and communities. By choosing a CVS Pharmacist career, you’ll join a company that values your growth, supports your success, and is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those it serves.