Ace Your Clinical Pharmacy Technician Interview: The Top 5 Questions and How to Answer Them

So you’ve got an interview lined up for a clinical pharmacy technician position Congratulations! This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills and experience in a healthcare setting

But now comes the tough part – preparing for those all-important interview questions. Clinical pharmacy technician interviews often focus heavily on assessing your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail.

To help you put your best foot forward we’ve compiled the 5 most common clinical pharmacy technician interview questions along with tips on how to craft winning sample answers. Read on to learn how to ace your upcoming interview!

Question 1: What would you do if a coworker exhibited suspicious behavior?

This question tests your integrity, ethics, and ability to ensure proper procedures are followed, even if it involves reporting a colleague. Here are some tips for answering:

• State that you would document all observed behaviors and report concerns directly to a supervisor or manager. Emphasize discretion and using proper channels.

• Demonstrate understanding of policies around controlled substances and protecting patient safety. Explain duty to report suspected diversion.

• Highlight importance of clear communication, gathering facts before escalating, and maintaining professionalism. Convey ability to handle situation judiciously.

Sample Answer: “I understand we have a duty to ensure controlled substances are handled properly. If I noticed questionable behavior from a coworker, I would document specifics about what I observed in an objective, factual manner. I would then discreetly report my concerns to the pharmacy manager per policy. I would not accuse anyone directly but would make management aware of the situation so they can investigate further and handle appropriately. Patient safety is the top priority, so following protocols around potential diversion is critical even if it involves reporting a fellow team member.”

Question 2: What is your experience handling insurance claims?

This question gauges your technical experience in pharmacy billing practices. Be sure to highlight:

• Knowledge of common prescription coverage plans, PBMs, reimbursement practices.

• Skills submitting accurate claims electronically through pharmacy management systems.

• Verifying patient eligibility and coverage, tracking rejected claims and working to resolve issues.

• Communicating effectively about medication costs, copays, formulary restrictions to patients.

Sample Answer: “I have 2 years of experience efficiently processing insurance claims for prescription medications. I am proficient at using our pharmacy management system to submit clean electronic claims to PBMs like Express Scripts and CVS Caremark. I verify eligibility using plan websites or calling help lines. For rejected claims, I investigate the reason, whether due to authorization requirements or formulary restrictions. I then work to gather documentation and resubmit correctly. An important part of my role is also explaining medication costs clearly to patients, including copays, deductibles or alternate options if drugs are not covered.”

Question 3: Can you describe a time when you noticed an error with a prescription?

This behavioral question allows you to demonstrate vigilance, critical thinking, and commitment to quality assurance. Use the STAR method when structuring your response:

Situation – Briefly explain the prescription error situation you faced.

Task – Describe your responsibilities in that situation.

Action – Explain the steps you took to address the error.

Result – Share the positive outcome of your actions.

Sample Answer: “When filling prescriptions during a busy shift, I noticed amoxicillin 250mg capsules had been dispensed when the prescription clearly called for 500mg capsules. Recognizing the potential patient harm from an underdose, I immediately notified the pharmacist-in-charge. Following protocols, I also explained the situation to the patient’s guardian and asked them to return the incorrect capsules so we could provide the proper 500mg dosage. The error was recorded per our quality assurance program. We were able to resolve the issue swiftly and prevent improper treatment for the patient. This highlighted the importance of staying focused when fulfilling complex prescription orders.”

Question 4: How do you make sure you fill priority medications on time?

This question allows you to discuss your organization, time management, and sense of urgency when processing vital prescriptions. Be sure to emphasize:

• Keeping updated medication fill lists and noting priority orders.

• Managing time wisely, starting early on items needing lead time.

• Communicating with patients about status for medications requiring extra steps.

• Asking for assistance from team when needed to expedite priority orders.

Sample Answer: “Ensuring patients get critical prescriptions promptly is incredibly important. I keep detailed to-do lists and designate high priority medications that require extra focus. For drugs needing additional steps like insurance approvals, I start the process early and keep patients informed of status via phone calls or text updates. If I anticipate delays, I ask pharmacists for guidance to possibly provide partial emergency supplies. I also collaborate with my team, asking for help preparing priority orders if I’m behind on my tasks. My priority is always getting vital medications ready on time for our patients.”

Question 5: Why do you want to work as a pharmacy technician?

This common question allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm and motivation for the role. Focus your answer on:

• Your interest in healthcare and desire to help people.

• Appreciation for the vital role of pharmacy technicians.

• Excitement to learn and grow your skills on the job.

• Looking forward to being part of an essential healthcare team.

Sample Answer: “I am genuinely excited for the opportunity to begin my career as a pharmacy technician. I’ve always had an interest in the healthcare field and helping people through their medical journeys. I respect the incredibly important role that pharmacy techs play in delivering safe, effective treatment. I know I have a lot to learn but I’m eager to develop my knowledge and skills under the guidance of experienced pharmacists and technicians. Most of all, I’m motivated to do my part supporting the pharmacy team in providing quality care and making a difference in our patients’ lives.”

There you have it – some of the top questions you’re likely to encounter when interviewing for a clinical pharmacy technician position along with strategies for crafting compelling responses. Preparation is key, so spend time practicing answers to these common questions aloud until you feel confident.

Highlight your passion for helping patients, technical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and ability to support the wider pharmacy team. With diligent practice using the STAR method and sample answers provided here, you’ll be equipped to ace your clinical pharmacy technician interview!