School of Pharmacy Technology
Student Handbook and
Program Syllabus
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Table of Contents
Program Mission, Vision, and Values Statements
Program Goals
Program Overview
Contact Information
Program Staff and Duties
Instruction Staff
Program Oversight Committee
Pharmacy Practice Sites
Accreditation
Academic Counseling
Operational Policies
Student Examinations
Student Evaluations
Student Conduct
Disciplinary Action
Grievance Policy and Procedure
Discrimination and Harassment Grievance
Universal Precautions
Student Health Services & Medical Waiver
Patient Care and Confidentiality
Smoking
Drug and Alcohol Policy
Electronic Devices
Social Media Policy
General Resources
Attendance
Call-Offs
Grading
Grade Reports and Transcripts
Completion and Graduation Requirements
Tuition
Terminal Objectives
Dismissal Policy
Voluntary Withdrawal Policy
Dress Code
Student Parking
Graduation Ceremony
Board Certification
Competency Testing
Plagiarism and Academic Conduct
Employment Guidelines for Students
Problem Resolution
Supervision of Students
Weather Emergency Policy
Program Curriculum and Course Descriptions
Assignments and Due Dates
Exam Schedule
Acknowledgement Statement
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Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
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Mission:
The mission of the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology is to educate,
train, and prepare students for careers in pharmacy technology at the Cleveland Clinic.
Vision:
The vision of the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology, in collaboration with
the Department of Pharmacy, is to provide didactic and experiential training to develop
students into contributing members of the Cleveland Clinic Enterprise; to develop a
pharmacy technology program with local, state, and national recognition; and to
contribute to the development and growth of allied health professions.
Values:
Teamwork: The School of Pharmacy Technology, in collaboration with the Department
of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Institutes, and leaders in allied health education will
provide education and oversight to students in support of Cleveland Clinic’s mission.
Integrity: The School of Pharmacy Technology is committed to academic integrity,
professional conduct, and the responsibility to support the values of Cleveland Clinic &
the Department of Pharmacy.
Quality: The School of Pharmacy Technology will provide superior training and
education that ensures the provision of safe and optimal drug therapy outcomes in
patients, as supported by the mission of the Department of Pharmacy.
Commitment: The School of Pharmacy Technology, the Department of Pharmacy, and
the Cleveland Clinic are committed to the education, development, and placement of
pharmacy technicians within the Cleveland Clinic Enterprise.
Goals:
Recruit candidates that will positively represent the program and excel academically
Prepare students for employment with the Cleveland Clinic Health-System
Achieve, local, state, and national program recognition
Provide a superior level of clinical training to technician students
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
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Program Overview:
The Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology operates in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Department
of Pharmacy. The Department of Pharmacy operates multi-site hospital, ambulatory, and specialty pharmacy services
for the Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic is a multi-site, academic health-system with advanced clinical services and
a world-wide presence. Students of the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology gain experience in various
pharmacy practice sites, while receiving didactic training from pharmacy specialists at Cleveland Clinic.
Contact Information:
Program Coordinator:
Tara Hannum
hannumt@ccf.org
(216) 445-9977
Pager #22840
Program Director:
Corey McEwen
mcewenc@ccf.org
Education Manager:
Rebecca Taylor
taylorr3@ccf.org
(216) 444-1756
Pager: (216) 464-8410, Pager #83029
Associate Chief Pharmacy Officer
Sam Calabrese
calabrs@ccf.org
Program Oversight
Program Coordinator
The Program Coordinator and the Program Director oversees the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology
in its entirety. The Program Director and the Program Coordinator are ultimately accountable for the overall quality of
the program and the trainee’s experiential and didactic training. Students report directly to the Program Coordinator.
The Program Coordinator maintains responsibilities commensurate with those of other allied health, technical, and
vocational training programs offered by the Cleveland Clinic.
Program Director
The Program Director has the appropriate authority to direct all aspects of training. The Program Director is active in
both local and national pharmacy organizations to maintain standards of technician training. The Program Director
maintains considerable latitude in delegating preceptor responsibilities for the technician training program to others
on staff.
Education Manager
The Education Manager, reporting to the System Director of Academic Affairs, assures competency and training for
pharmacist members of the Cleveland Clinic staff.
Associate Chief Pharmacy Officer
The Associate Chief Pharmacy Officer, reporting to the Chief Pharmacy Officer, is responsible for all academic,
education, and training programs within the Cleveland Clinic Department of Pharmacy. The Program Director reports
to the ACPO.
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Instruction
The Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology supports student education by delivering
instruction from pharmacists who specialize in each subject within clinical areas. This structure allows
students to receive the most advanced, applicable information possible. Instructors subject to change.
Pharmacy Calculations: William Ryman, RPh, PharmD.
Pharmacy Law: Todd Donnelly, RPh., MBA
Intro to Pharmacology: Rebecca Taylor, PharmD., BCPS, MBA
Agents for the Endocrine System: Donald Zabriskie, PharmD.
Electronic Medical Records and Order Entry: Kevin Amoline, RPh.
Purchasing and Inventory: Jeffrey Rosner, RPh., MBA
Agents for the Nervous System: Donald Zabriskie, PharmD.
Agents for the Muscular System: Steven Meek, RPh.
Agents for the Skeletal System: Cristal Exline, PharmD. BCPS
Agents for the Renal System: Julie Barnes, PharmD., BCPS
Agents for the Reproductive System: Ashley Carty, RPh., PharmD.
Agents for the Cardiovascular System: Ramone Boyd, PharmD.
Agents for the Gastrointestinal System: Marcia Wyman, PharmD., BCPS
Agents for the Respiratory System: Marcia Wyman, RPh., MSc., BCPS., CGP
Agents for the Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat: Janet Sensenbrenner, PharmD.
Agents for the Dermatological System: Rachel Lovria, PharmD., BCPS
Agents for the Immune System: David Tietz, RPh, PharmD
Medication Therapy Management: Lisa Potts, RPh, PharmD.
Pharmacy Ethics: Nagy Ramzy, RPh
Continuing Education and Professional Organizations: Rebecca Taylor, PharmD., BCPS, MBA
Pharmacy Practice Model Initiative Vision: Sam Calabrese, RPh, MBA
Program Advisory Committee:
Tara Hannum, Program Coordinator (Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology)
Corey McEwen, Program Director (Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy)
Sam Calabrese (Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy)
Kory Ross, Regional Oncology Pharmacy Technician III (Cleveland Clinic)
Roy Anderson, Director (Cleveland Clinic Allied Health Education Partnerships)
Holley Boren, Manager, (Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy)
Joston Da Grava, Training Specialist (Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy)
Pharmacy Practice Sites
Cleveland Clinic Euclid Avenue Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Crile Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Children’s Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Strongsville Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Fairview Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Willoughby Hills Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Twinsburg Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Marymount Ambulatory Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Home Delivery Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Central Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Pediatrics Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Intensive Care Unit Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Pharmacy Decentralized Surgical Services
Cleveland Clinic Heart Center Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Inpatient Sterile Pharmacy Services
Cleveland Clinic Euclid Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Southpoint Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Marymount Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Lakewood Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
Cleveland Clinic Lutheran Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy
5
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
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Accreditation
Cleveland Clinic feels that an important part of expanding the pharmacy practice model is expanding the
role pharmacy technicians serve. This is accomplished by training, educating, and providing experience
to technician students at a consistently high standard. As such, the Cleveland Clinic maintains full
accreditation through the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. The Cleveland Clinic’s
accreditation is valid through 2018, at which point a re-accreditation process will be completed.
Academic Counseling
Students will be given a regular schedule to meet with the Program Director in group settings to discuss
academic progress, issues, and concerns. Meeting time is available outside of the regular schedule, upon
request.
Operational Policies
Instructors, program staff, and department staff and leadership will be non-discriminatory with regard to
disability, race, color, creed, gender, sexual preference, veteran status, national origin and other
protected classes.
Program leadership will be active advocates for students in the program. When appropriate, the staff will
support student decisions in administrative, educational, and clinical matters. To provide support and
advocacy, students must inform the Program Director immediately of any incidents, problems, or errors.
Student Examinations
Students will receive one weekly comprehensive exam during the didactic portion of the program.
This is a graded assignment. Make-up examinations are not allowed. Students who fail to
complete the examination on test day will forfeit points for the exam. All exams are completed
online, and the link is closed after the due date.
Student quizzes are demonstrative, and reflect the lessons of the previous week. These quizzes
will be performed under the direction of the Program Director, Training Specialist, or designee.
Make-up quizzes are not allowed. Students who fail to complete the quiz on the assigned day will
forfeit points for the quiz.
Student Evaluations
Student evaluations are necessary to determine a student’s progress in the program. Several evaluation
types will be provided to monitor progress:
Comprehensive skill checklists will serve as a mechanism for monitoring progress throughout the
practice labs. Students are responsible for maintaining this list during the first 15 weeks of the
program, and turn it in to the program director prior to beginning externship. Lost, stolen,
damaged, or otherwise irretrievable lists will not receive credit.
Weekly evaluations are required during the externship. Students are responsible for ensuring the
preceptor has completed and reviewed the evaluation with the student and returned to the
program director. Evaluations are due no later than each Monday following the completion of the
externship week. Evaluations submitted after Monday will not receive credit.
Students are required on a weekly basis, during externship, to complete an evaluation of the site
preceptor. This evaluation is necessary to monitor the student’s experience on-site. This
evaluation is due by each Monday following the completion of the externship week. Evaluations
submitted after Monday will not receive credit.
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Student Conduct
Students accepted into the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology represent not only the
school, but also the Cleveland Clinic and the Department of Pharmacy. Students are expected to
represent themselves in a professional manner at all times. Students are to maintain a professional
approach that encourages teamwork, the free exchange of ideas, and collaborative problem solving. Any
interference with this work and learning environment is classified as disruptive behavior and violates
policy. Failure to adhere to program, department, or organization policies may lead to corrective action or
in some cases, dismissal from the program. Professional conduct
Disruptive behavior includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Using profane or disrespectful language
Engaging in negative talk about the program, classmates, or employees
Degrading or demeaning comments and/or behavior
Name-calling
Sexual comments or innuendo
Inappropriate or unwanted touching
Racial, ethnic, or sexual jokes
Outbursts of anger
Comments that undermine a caregiver or student’s confidence
Intimidating behavior intended to suppress opinions from other classmates or employees
Reluctance or refusal to answer phone calls, emails, pages, or requests
Unfair or inappropriate evaluation of caregiver’s or classmates
Failing to report inappropriate conduct to the program director
Disciplinary Action
Students who fail to follow policies, meet attendance requirements, or fail to use appropriate judgment in
the practice setting are subject to corrective action. When appropriate, feedback will be provided to
engage the student in a performance improvement plan. The program director will use a standard
documented corrective action form to outline the steps following any deviation from program policy.
Serious infractions can result in immediate dismissal from the program (see dismissal policy).
Grievance Policy and Procedure
Students have the right to appeal operational and administrative policies and decisions through a formal
process, by following these steps:
1. Discuss the problem/issue with the preceptor, site manager, or pharmacist (when in practice labs
or externship).
2. If the student does not gain satisfactory resolution from the site leadership, the student should
provide any supporting documents or examples to the Program Director for review. The Program
Director will make a decision within 2 business days.
3. If the student does not gain satisfactory response from the Program Director, s/he can request a
meeting with the Program Director and the Director of Academic Affairs. The leadership will
provide a response to the appeal within 2 business days.
4. As a final level of appeal, students may submit, in writing, an appeal to the Program Oversight
Committee. The committee consists of individuals from the Department of Pharmacy and Health
Sciences Education. The committee meets on the first Friday of each month, and will respond to
the appeal within 2 business days following the meeting. Upon recommendation by the CC
Director of Health Science Education, the appeal may be forwarded to the Cleveland Clinic
Health Professions Educator’s Council for further review.
Students must follow this procedure in order to have a decision reviewed.
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Discrimination and Harassment Grievance Policy and Procedure
The Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology affirms a commitment to freedom from
discrimination for all members of the program. Discrimination or harassment of one’s race, national origin,
sex, age, creed, disability, religion, color, veteran status, sexual orientation, or marital status is strictly
prohibited. Students who feel they have been discriminated against or harassed should notify the
program director immediately. Students may also file a formal grievance with the Cleveland Clinic Human
Resources Department.
Universal Precautions
Students must take standard precaution to reduce risk of blood-borne pathogens and infectious disease.
Personal protective equipment is provided in all areas with risk. Students should consider all bodily
substances potentially infectious and not enter any room, or handle items without personal protective
equipment. Gloves, masks, protective eyewear, and gowns must be worn when appropriate. Additionally,
students must wash hands before and after any direct patient contact.
Student Health Services and Medical Waivers
Student Health Services are at the students’ expense. Emergency services are offered at all hospital
locations.
The Program Coordinator/Director will maintain a copy of the medical liability waiver for all students in the
program. Students should note that this waiver acknowledges and waives liability for injury and illness
while in the practice settings.
Patient Confidentiality
During the course of the program, students will gain access to protected health information (PHI).
Students must follow HIPAA regulations at all times. Class discussions, case study reports, and other
communications are prohibited from including PHI. All students must complete HIPAA training through
the COMET online system prior to starting the program and receiving an ID badge. Information obtained
through the course of the program may not be shared with any other party unless to facilitate patient care.
Failure to follow the patient confidentiality policies can result in immediate dismissal from the program.
Smoking
Cleveland Clinic campuses are smoke-free to promote a healthy environment for patients, employees,
and visitors. Students are prohibited from smoking anywhere on Cleveland Clinic property. This includes
smoking in one’s vehicle when it is parked on Cleveland Clinic property. Smoking on Cleveland Clinic
property will lead to immediate dismissal from the program (see dismissal policy).
As part of the health screening, students are tested for the presence of tobacco. Although a positive
tobacco test does not preclude one from acceptance into the program, students cannot gain employment
at the Cleveland Clinic until a follow up test shows a negative result.
Drug and Substance Abuse
Drug and substance abuse will not be tolerated and is considered a major infraction of policy. Students
suspected by the Program Director, preceptor, or department manager of being under the influence of
illegal substances, mood altering prescription therapies, or alcohol will be sent for testing immediately.
Positive results or refusal to receive testing will result in immediate dismissal from the program (see
dismissal policy).
Electronic Devices
Pharmacy practice can be supplemented through the use of electronic devices (smart phones, PDA’s,
etc) with clinical applications. As such, students are permitted to use personal electronic devices for
clinical purposes only when in clinical sites. However, students must restrict the use of such devices in
the presence of hospital patients. Further, students should explain to preceptors that the use of electronic
devices is restricted to clinical application.
The use of electronic devices is not permitted during clinical hours to make personal phone calls, send
text or instant messages, or access Internet services for personal communication purposes.
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
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Students will have access to laptops when in the classroom. These devices may not ever leave the
classroom, and students will be held responsible for their assigned computer. Students must ensure that
the laptop computers are charged each day, and have available battery supply necessary to perform
learning objectives.
Social Media Policy
Students are prohibited from posting any confidential or sensitive patient information or information
related to the Cleveland Clinic on any social media website (Google+, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, etc).
Students are responsible for all content they post on social media sites. If students post any information
related to Cleveland Clinic, they must disclose their role and attach the statement: This post is personal to
me and does not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the Cleveland Clinic.” Failure to follow
social media guidelines can result in dismissal from the program.
General & Clinical Resources
The program training room is located in Hb102 and available to students Monday through Thursday from
7am – 6pm on these days. Laptop computers can be requested for use outside of normal class hours
provided they do not leave the training room. Use of department resources (copy machine, fax machine,
office supplies, etc) is permissible when appropriate and required. Students may use clinical resources
(Lexi-comp, Micromedix, etc) from any department computer. Students requiring tutoring should direct
requests to the Program Director.
Attendance
Program attendance is of the utmost importance to the learning process and a student’s program grade.
Attendance is heavily weighted in grading, and is closely monitored. Poor attendance limits a student’s
ability to meet learning objectives, negatively influences the grades, affects the learning environment, and
negatively influences the student’s employment prospects.
Students may only miss up to 4 days during the 15-week didactic portion of the program.
Students may only miss up to 2 days during the 10-week externship rotations.
Late arrivals count as an absence equal to ½ day.
Students cannot “bank” absences: For example, if the student only missed 1 day during the
didactic program, s/he may not miss 5 days during externship.
Students, even within the “allowed” absences, will lose attendance points for absences.
Illness, injury, or personal emergencies will not excuse students from accumulating absences or
losing points. These “allowed” absences should be reserved for such reasons, and when used
within reason will not adversely affect a student’s grades.
The death of an immediate family member provides 3 days of bereavement leave with an
opportunity to make-up assignments. Immediate family members are defined as: spouse, brother,
sister, child, stepchild, mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, mother-in-law, father-in-law,
grandchild, or same-gender domestic partner. Documentation is required to request bereavement
leave.
Students who miss an assignment, exam, quiz, clinical rotation, or other graded work will not be
permitted to make-up the work. Therefore, the student will forfeit credit for these assignments.
Students who exceed the allowed absences during the didactic portion of the program will enter
corrective action. If students can maintain a passing grade with the loss of attendance and
missed assignment points, s/he will be permitted to move into externship.
Students who exceed 2 absences during the 10-weeks of externship will enter corrective action.
The student’s externship evaluations will be considered to determine whether a passing score will
be provided for the externship. Students who fail the externship for attendance-only related
reasons will be permitted one additional attempt to complete externship.
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Timekeeping
Students are required to use the Kronos Timekeeping Stations to swipe in/out each day of
classes and externships
Students assigned to locations without a Kronos Timekeeping Station are required to notify the
timekeeper before the end of the workday
Students who miss a swipe in or swipe out will be counted as a tardy or leave early, resulting in a
½ day absence
During the first 15-week didactic component of the program, students must use the Kronos
Station located in the basement of the H-building for all in & out swipes.
During the last 1-week externship component of the program, students must use the Kronos
Station closest to the assigned pharmacy.
Call-Offs
During the 15-week didactic program, students must notify the Program Coordinator of an absence by
one of the following methods:
Email at hannumt@ccf.org
Phone: 216-445-9977
Text: 740-509-0483
During the 10-week externships, students must first notify the site preceptor or manager at the number
provided and notify the Program Coordinator by one of the methods above.
Failure to notify the program director of an absence will result in corrective action.
Grading
The following scale is used to determine letter grades:
Total Number of Points
2520-2318
2317.5 – 2066
2065.5 – 1814
1813.5 – 1562
Below 1561.5
Grade
92% - 100% - A
82% - 91.5% - B
72% - 81.5% - C
62% - 71.5% - D
(does not meet graduation requirements)
Failing
Grade Reports and Transcripts
Grade reports will be generated and available to students every 5 weeks during the program. Requests
for official program transcripts should be directed to the Program Director.
Completion and Graduation Requirements
The following conditions must be met for program completion and graduation:
Student maintains a “C” or better in didactic programming
Student maintains a “C” or better in externships
Student has met all attendance requirements throughout the program
Student is not in active corrective action, or has met the recommendations set forth in corrective
action documentation
Student has paid tuition in full by the graduation date
Student has completed an advancement plan
Student has presented longitudinal project
Student has received a recommendation to advance from the Program Director and preceptors at
both externship sites.
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
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Tuition
Full program tuition is $3,800. Students who pay in full prior to the start of classes will receive a 10%
discount. Students wishing to enter a payment arrangement will be required to place a $500 downpayment at the start of the program. The following monthly options are available:
Down Payment
$500
$750
$1000
$1250
$1500
$1750
$2000
Month 1
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
Month 2
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
Month 3
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
Month 4
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
Month 5
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
Month 6
$417
$375
$334
$292
$250
$209
$167
th
Payments are due on the 15 of each month. Student should notify the Program Director immediately of
any late or missed payments. Late or missed payments can result in dismissal from the program.
Terminal Objectives
Upon completing the course, students will demonstrate competency in the following areas:
Demonstrate ethical conduct in all job-related activities.
Present an image appropriate for the profession of pharmacy in appearance and behavior.
Communicate clearly when speaking and in writing.
Demonstrate a respectful attitude when interacting with diverse patient populations.
Apply self-management skills, including time management, stress management, and
adapting to change.
Apply interpersonal skills, including negotiation skills, conflict resolution, and teamwork.
Apply critical thinking skills, creativity, and innovation to solve problems.
Foundational Professional Knowledge and Skills
Demonstrate understanding of healthcare occupations and the health care delivery
system.
Demonstrate understanding of wellness promotion and disease prevention concepts, such
as use of health screenings; health practices and environmental factors that impact
health; and adverse effects of alcohol, tobacco, and legal and illegal drugs.
Demonstrate commitment to excellence in the pharmacy profession and to continuing
education and training.
Demonstrate knowledge and skills in areas of science relevant to the pharmacy
technician’s role, including anatomy/physiology and pharmacology.
Perform mathematical calculations essential to the duties of pharmacy technicians in a
variety of contemporary settings.
Demonstrate understanding of the pharmacy technician’s role in the medication-use
process.
Demonstrate understanding of major trends, issues, goals, and initiatives taking place in
the pharmacy profession.
Demonstrate understanding of non-traditional roles of pharmacy technicians.
Identify and describe emerging therapies.
Processing and Handling of Medications and Medication Orders
Assist pharmacists in collecting, organizing, and recording demographic and clinical
information for direct patient care and medication-use review.
Receive and screen prescriptions/medication orders for completeness, accuracy, and
authenticity.
Assist pharmacists in the identification of patients who desire/require counseling to
optimize the use of medications, equipment, and devices.
Prepare non-patient-specific medications for distribution (e.g., batch, stock medications).
Distribute medications in a manner that follows specified procedures.
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Practice effective infection control procedures, including preventing transmission of blood
borne and airborne diseases.
Assist pharmacists in preparing, storing, and distributing medication products requiring
special handling and documentation [(e.g., controlled substances, immunizations,
chemotherapy, investigational drugs, drugs with mandated Risk Evaluation and Mitigation
Strategies (REMS)].
Assist pharmacists in the monitoring of medication therapy.
Prepare patient-specific medications for distribution.
Maintain pharmacy facilities and equipment, including automated dispensing equipment.
Use material safety data sheets (MSDS) to identify, handle, and safely dispose of
hazardous materials.
Prepare medications requiring compounding of sterile products.
Prepare medications requiring compounding of non-sterile products.
Prepare medications requiring compounding of chemotherapy/hazardous products.
Procurement, Billing, Reimbursement and Inventory Management
Initiate, verify, and assist in the adjudication of billing for pharmacy services and goods,
and collect payment for these services.
Apply accepted procedures in purchasing pharmaceuticals, devices, and supplies.
Apply accepted procedures in inventory control of medications, equipment, and devices.
Explain pharmacy reimbursement plans for covering pharmacy services.
Patient- and Medication-Safety
Apply patient- and medication-safety practices in all aspects of the pharmacy technician’s
roles.
Verify measurements, preparation, and/or packaging of medications produced by other
healthcare professionals (e.g., tech-check-tech).
Explain pharmacists’ roles when they are responding to emergency situations and how
pharmacy technicians can assist pharmacists by being certified as a Basic Life Support
(BLS) Healthcare Provider.
Demonstrate skills required for effective emergency preparedness.
Assist pharmacists in medication reconciliation.
Assist pharmacists in medication therapy management.
Technology and Informatics
Describe the use of current technology in the healthcare environment to ensure the safety
and accuracy of medication dispensing.
Regulatory Issues
Compare and contrast the roles of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in ensuring
pharmacy department compliance with professional standards and relevant legal,
regulatory, formulary, contractual, and safety requirements.
Maintain confidentiality of patient information.
Quality Assurance
Apply quality assurance practices to pharmaceuticals, durable and non-durable medical
equipment, devices, and supplies.
Explain procedures and communication channels to use in the event of a product recall or
shortage, a medication error, or identification of another problem.
Dismissal Policy
Students can be dismissed from the program for major infractions to policy, including but not limited to:
Drug or substance abuse
Smoking on Cleveland Clinic property
Excessive Absence
Failure to follow professional conduct policy
Violating social media policies
Violating patient confidentiality policies
Violating harassment policies
Theft or vandalism of Cleveland Clinic property
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Failure to meet recommendations set forth in a corrective action document
Failure to maintain passing scores in the program
Failure to make scheduled tuition payments
If a student is dismissed from the program for violating policy or failing to follow administrative
procedures, refunds of tuition will not be issued.
Voluntary Withdrawal Policy
Students may voluntarily withdrawal from the program for personal reasons. However, if an administrative
decision to dismiss the student is under review following a corrective action, the dismissal will precede the
decision to withdrawal. In the event the student withdrawals, tuition will be refunded at a prorated amount
during the 15-week didactic program. Each week of the didactic program is prorated at $200 per week.
Students withdrawing from the program after the first 15 weeks will not receive a refund.
Conversely, students who drop the program without paying at least $200/week for the time they were
enrolled will be responsible for any tuition due. Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology and the
Department of Pharmacy maintain the right to collect any tuition due at this predetermined rate.
Dress Code
Students will be issued uniforms at no additional charge. The uniforms will consist of a logo polo shirt,
and scrub bottoms. Students are required to wear this uniform at all times during the program, unless
specifically directed otherwise by the Program Coordinator.
Students should keep uniforms laundered and tidy at all times.
Students must wear closed toe athletic or orthopedic type footwear. Open-toe or dress shoes are
not permitted.
Socks or hosiery must be worn at all times.
Students may not wear clothing over their uniforms, including hooded sweatshirts, cardigan
sweaters, or coats. Plain long-sleeved shirts may be worn under the polo shirt to provide
additional layering, when needed.
Students may not wear more than 1-2 pairs of tasteful earrings in each ear. Facial piercings are
not permitted.
Tattoos should remain covered while in practice sites.
Students must keep facial hair well groomed.
Students must maintain natural hair colors.
Artificial fingernails and distracting fingernail coloring is not permitted.
Cleveland Clinic ID badges must be worn above the waist at all times.
Students who fail to follow the dress code policy may be sent home at the Program Director or
preceptor’s discretion.
Student Parking
Students will receive a free, on-site parking assignment at the same time the ID badge is retrieved.
Students must park in assigned locations, and follow posted parking rules.
Graduation Ceremony
A graduation ceremony will be planned and arranged at the school’s expense. This is a formal event that
students and their guests must dress appropriately for. Men should plan to wear suits and women should
dress in a suit, business dress, or business skirt. Each student is permitted to invite up to 4 adult guests
to the event. Final counts are due at least two weeks before the graduation ceremony.
Board Certification
To gain employment as a pharmacy technician at Cleveland Clinic, students must pass the Pharmacy
Technician Certification Board Exam. Once the requirements for program completion have been met and
tuition is paid in full, the Program Director will arrange and pay for the first attempt at the exam. Once the
fees have been paid in full, students will receive an Authorization to Test from PTCB via email. The
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
14
student is responsible for scheduling the day and time of the test. Once the testing is complete, the
student must notify the Program Director of the results.
Competency Testing
All students admitted into the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology were required to take the
TABE test, or show satisfactory competency through a completed college degree program. Satisfactory
competency is required of all students in math, reading, and language.
Plagiarism and Academic Conduct
Students who use resources to complete project work must properly cite sources using APA or MLA
format. Failure to properly cite work is considered plagiarism and can result in immediate dismissal from
the program.
Students will use electronic tools to complete assignments and examinations. Students may not use
outside resources to complete these graded assignments. Academic misconduct during examinations or
other graded work will result in a failed score (zero points). Academic misconduct includes, but is not
limited to, sharing answers, using unapproved resources during testing; making copies of tests or
assignments, having others complete assignments on another student’s behalf. Academic misconduct
can result in immediate dismissal from the program. Upon completion of the program, former students are
not permitted to share answers to assignments or tests with current students.
Employment Guidelines for Students
Students graduating from the Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology may be considered for
employment within the Cleveland Clinic Health System. Students should carefully monitor their own
behavior within practice sites, as all feedback throughout the program relating to one’s professional
conduct can be considered when evaluating employability. Attendance records and academic evaluations
may be considered. All requests for letters of recommendation should be directed to the Program
Director.
Students seeking employment within the Cleveland Clinic Health-System may apply for open positions
during the last 5 weeks of externship. The department may choose to interview student applicants during
this time, but all offers are contingent upon successful passage of the certification board exams. Hiring
decisions are those of the hiring manager within each site.
Problem Resolution
Students learning in an adult environment should build the skills to handle small conflicts individually, and
are encouraged to do so as part of the learning process. However, problems should be brought to the
attention of the Program Director immediately to document and facilitate resolution. Students wanting to
appeal policies or decisions should refer to the Grievance Policy.
Supervision of Students
All students report directly to the Program Coordinator Tara Hannum. Any corrective action,
administrative decisions, and instruction is the sole responsibility of the Program Coordinator. Please see
the duties of each staff member for additional information. Students are expected to take clinical direction
from the site preceptors, and pharmacists in every location to maintain pharmacy operations and patient
care. Any misconduct, issues, or feedback will be provided to the Program Coordinator.
Weather Emergency Policy
Students are required and expected to maintain attendance in the program during all seasons. Cleveland
Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology will follow the Cleveland Clinic’s weather emergency policy.
Weather emergencies are generally announced within 1-3 shifts after the emergency is declared. If a
weather emergency is declared by Cleveland Clinic, absences will be announced and make-up work will
be scheduled. Otherwise, absences during inclement weather will follow the normal attendance policy.
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
15
Program Curriculum and Course Descriptions
Course Code
Course Title
Course Description
CCRx - INTRO100
Introduction to Pharmacy Practice
CCRx –
PHARM100
Pharmacology and the Human
Body for Technicians
CCRx –
PHARM200
Medication & Drug Class Review
CCRx – MATH200
Pharmacy Technician Math
CCRx – LAB100
Pharmacy Technician Process Lab
CCRx – LAB200
Pharmacy Technician Practice
Labs
CCRx – HR100
Workplace Relations & Policies
CCRx – HR200
Job Seeking Skills
CCRx – LAW100
Pharmacy Law
CCRx – ETH100
Pharmacy Ethics
CCRx – AUTM100
Pharmacy Automation
CCRx – CERT100
Technician Certification and
Program Accreditation
CCRx – PINV100
Pharmacy Purchasing and
Inventory
CCRx – SAFT100
Medication Safety
CCRx – TECH100
Expanding Technician Practice in
Pharmacy
CCRx – BILL100
Pharmacy Billing
CCRx – INVS100
Investigational Drugs
CCRx – EXT100
Pharmacy Technician Externship Ambulatory
Pharmacy Technician Externship Inpatient
History of pharmacy, general terminology,
introduction to hospital practice, policies, and
regulation
Pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology in the
following subjects: Endocrine System, Nervous
System, Muscular System, Skeletal System, Renal
System, Reproductive System, Cardiovascular
System, Gastrointestinal System,
Ears/Eyes/Nose/Throat, Dermatological System,
Immune System
Top prescription and over-the-counter medications,
explores deeper into drug classifications, adverse
effects, interactions, and off-label indications.
Application of common mathematics the technician
will need to complete tasks in the inpatient and
ambulatory pharmacy settings to prepare IV
products, compound medications, and calculate
information necessary to process orders.
Inpatient and ambulatory pharmacy processes,
sterile products, and chemotherapy in the
classroom setting in a constructed lab.
Student rotates through various hospital pharmacy
practice sites while accumulating training from a
comprehensive objectives checklist.
Teambuilding skills, working in diverse teams,
policies and regulations
Employment application, interviews, and offer
negotiation skills necessary to begin work in
pharmacy
State and federal laws pertaining to
pharmaceuticals
Ethical conduct in pharmacy practice, including
case examples
Pharmacy technology systems including automated
medication dispensing machines, carousel
technology, and the electronic medical record
Test review, requirements, and scheduling. Also
covers the importance of program accreditation
and the requirements for accredited programs.
Training to order products and maintain pharmacy
inventory. Covers policies and laws regarding
purchasing and inventory. Provides background on
drug shortages.
Case study review, pharmacy technician role in
medication safety, reporting medication errors
Addresses the expanding role of the pharmacy
technician in hospital practice and PPMI, included
continuing education and professional organization
overviews
Third-party billing, claims adjudication, and patient
assistance
Procedures, policies and laws involving drug
studies and investigational drugs.
5-week externship within the CC Health-System
ambulatory pharmacies.
5-week externship within the CC Health-System
inpatient pharmacies.
CCRx – EXT200
Total
Hours
13
43
13
26
15
150
24
4
3
2
6
35
2
2
25
4
2
200
200
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
16
Assignments and Due Dates
Week 1
Graded Assignments
Read Chapter 1
Introduction to Pharmacy
Complete Chapter 1 Multiple Choice
Problems
Read Chapter 2
Pharmacy Law
Complete Chapter 2 Multiple Choice
Problems
Read Chapter 3
Ambulatory Pharmacy
Complete Chapter 3 Multiple Choice
Problems
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x2
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Due Date
ASHP Manual for Pharmacy
Technicians
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for Pharmacy
Technicians
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for Pharmacy
Technicians
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
Points
10
10
10
20
100
5
10
10
20
Week 2
Graded Assignments
SIG Code Worksheet
Read Chapter 7
Drug Info Resources
Complete Chapter 7 Multiple
Choice Problems
Read Chapter 11
Biopharmaceutics,
Pharmacokinetics, and
Pharmacodynamics
Complete Chapter 11 Multiple
Choice Problems
Math Assignment
Read pages 201-214 Drugs that
Affect the Nervous System
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x5
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 3
Graded Assignments
Read Chapter 19
Purchasing and Inventory Control
Complete Chapter 19
Multiple Choice Problems
Read Pages 228-231
Drugs that Affect the Endocrine
System
Read Chapter 15
Nonsterile Compounding and
Repackaging
Complete Chapter 15
Multiple Choice Problems
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x3
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Manual for Pharmacy
Technicians
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for Pharmacy
Technicians
10
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
10
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
10
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Week 4
Graded Assignments
Read Pages 224-228
Drugs that Affect the
Musculoskeletal System
Read Page 236
Drugs that Affect the Urinary
System
Read Chapter 4
Hospital Pharmacy Practice
Complete Chapter 4 Multiple
Choice Problems
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x5
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Week 5
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Pages 214-220
Drugs that Affect the
Cardiovascular System
Read Chapter 17
Medication Errors
Complete Chapter 17 Multiple
Choice Problems
Read Chapter 16
Aseptic Technique
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x2
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Due Date
17
Points
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
Book
10
100
20
100
5
10
2
20
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
10
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Week 6
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read pages 232-236
Drugs that Affect the GI System
Read Chapter 20
Billing and Reimbursement
Complete Chapter 20 Multiple
Choice Problems
Read pages 220-224
Drugs that Affect the Respiratory
System
Review Chapter 16
Aseptic Technique
Complete Chapter 16 Multiple
Choice Problems
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x6
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 7
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Pages 241-245
Drugs that Affect Men’s and
Women’s Health
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x4
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 8
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read pages 231-232
Drugs that Affect the Immune
System
Read pages 245-251
Antibiotics, Antivirals, and
Antifungals
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x6
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Due Date
18
Points
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Workbook to the Manual for
Pharmacy Technicians
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
10
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
ASHP Manual for the Pharmacy
Technician
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Week 9
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Chapter 1
Complete Chapter 1 Self
Assessment Questions
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x2
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 10
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Individual Presentation
Read Chapter 2
Complete Chapter 2 Self
Assessment Questions
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 11
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Chapter 3
Complete Chapter 3 Self
Assessment Questions
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x1
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 12
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Chapter 4
Complete Chapter 4 Self
Assessment Questions
Math Assignment
Group Presentations
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Due Date
19
Points
10
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
100
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
Book
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
20
100
100
20
100
5
10
20
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Week 13
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Read Chapter 5
Complete Chapter 5 Self
Assessment Questions
Complete Problems 1-29 of the
Practice Exam
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Instructor Evaluation x4
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 14
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Complete Problems 30-52 of the
Practice Exam
Complete Problems 53-89 of the
Practice Exam
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Rotation Evaluation x2
Attendance
Total
Book
Week 15
Graded Assignments
Medication Drug Class Review
Complete Problems 90-125 of the
Practice Exam
Math Assignment
Weekly Quiz
Weekly Exam
Weekly Self-Reflection
Rotation Evaluation x2
Instructor Evaluation X2
Attendance
Total
Book
Due Date
Points
10
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Due Date
Points
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
10
20
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
20
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
20
Due Date
Points
10
20
ASHP Certification Review Booklet
Math for the Pharmacy Technician
100
20
100
5
10
10
20
Final Assignments
Due Date
Longitudinal Project
Summaries on April 19 – Presentations per
schedule
th
April 19
Practice Lab Checklists
20
Points
th
100
100
Assignment Type
Total Points
Workbook
Problems
Longitudinal
Project
Quiz
Practice Lab Checklists
Exam
th
120
Summaries on April 19 – Presentations per
schedule
300
th
April 19
1500
Medication Drug Class Review
120
Attendance
300
Practice Certification Problems
220
Presentations
200
Math
1500
Other
10
Longitudinal Project
100
Practice Lab Checklist
100
Total
4470
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
Exam Schedule
Exam Topics
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15
Intro to Pharmacy
Pharmacy Law
Ambulatory Pharmacy Practice
SIG Codes
Into to Pharmacology
Drugs for the Nervous System
Top Prescribed Medications
Purchasing and Inventory
Drugs for the Endocrine System
Non-Sterile Compounding
Drugs for the Musculoskeletal System
Drugs for the Renal System
Pharmacy Calculations
Institutional Pharmacy Practice
Drugs for the Cardiovascular System
Pharmacy Calculations
Medication Safety
Sterile Compounding and Aseptic Technique
Drugs for the GI System
Smoking Cessation Therapies
Pharmacy Billing
Drugs for the Respiratory System
Chemo and Cytotoxic Medications
Drugs for the Reproductive System
Pharmacy Calculations
Drugs for the Ear, Eyes, Nose, and Throat
Drugs for the Dermatological System
Investigational Drugs
Drugs for the Immune System
Medication Therapy Management
Pharmacy Ethics
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Cumulative
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Cumulative
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Customer Service
Cumulative
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Cumulative
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Professional Organizations
Cumulative
Top Drugs
Pharmacy Calculations
Cumulative
Cumulative/FINAL Exam
21
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology – Student Handbook
22
Cleveland Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology
Student Handbook
Acknowledgement Statement
Program Mission, Vision, and Values Statements
Program Goals
Program Overview
Contact Information
Program Staff and Duties
Instruction Staff
Program Oversight Committee
Pharmacy Practice Sites
Accreditation
Academic Counseling
Operational Policies
Student Examinations
Student Evaluations
Student Conduct
Disciplinary Action
Grievance Policy and Procedure
Discrimination and Harassment Grievance
Universal Precautions
Student Health Services & Medical Waiver
Patient Care and Confidentiality
Smoking
Drug and Alcohol Policy
Electronic Devices
Social Media Policy
General Resources
Attendance
Call-Offs
Grading
Grade Reports and Transcripts
Completion and Graduation Requirements
Tuition
Terminal Objectives
Dismissal Policy
Voluntary Withdrawal Policy
Dress Code
Student Parking
Graduation Ceremony
Board Certification
Competency Testing
Plagiarism and Academic Conduct
Employment Guidelines for Students
Problem Resolution
Supervision of Students
Weather Emergency Policy
I have read, reviewed, and understand the above mentioned policies and descriptions listed above, and
referenced in the Student Handbook. I understand that failure to comply with the policies of the Cleveland
Clinic School of Pharmacy Technology, Department of Pharmacy, or Cleveland Clinic can result in
corrective action, including immediate dismissal from the program.
_________________________________________________
Student Signature
_________________________________________________
Student Name (Printed)
________________________________
Date