Can pharmacy technicians provide patient counseling?

In Ohio, pharmacy technicians are not authorized to provide patient counseling. This responsibility lies specifically with pharmacists, who are trained and licensed to educate patients on their medications, potential side effects, and any other queries related to their health and treatment regimen. Patient counseling requires a professional understanding of pharmacology, drug interactions, and patient care that goes beyond the scope of practice for a pharmacy technician.

Pharmacy technicians play essential roles in medication preparation and processing, but their interactions with patients are typically limited to logistical tasks, such as filling prescriptions or answering questions about order status. This clear distinction in responsibilities ensures that patients receive the comprehensive and professional guidance they require from qualified pharmacists, who are trained to handle complex health-related inquiries and provide evidence-based recommendations.