Re: Fwd: Become_IV_Certified

[Guest guest]

Dear All,

The Advertisement in the email I got did not post as an attachment.

So I am typing what it says here:

" " ALERT: NPTA Launches New Sterile Products Certification Program

Are you interested in becoming an IV Certified Pharmacy Technician?

NPTA has developed an all-new sterile products certification course

that requires no travel and is 300% less expensive than prior

courses!Courses begin November 8, 2004, but register by 10-15-04 and

save.For more information - click here.

" http://pharmacytechnician.org/home/sterilecourse.asp

Hope someone can use this!!

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT

> Dear All,

>

> I just got this from NPTA in my email. Well MANY of you have been

asking for this for the last two years!!! In the past I have had

leads on two separate sources that cost up to $1000 dollars. NOW you

can do it for so much less.

>

> Keep in mind if you have attended a school where you learned

aaseptic technique, IV preparation and IV math and you had to

perform mock labs and/or do an externship you may already be IV

certified or you may be able to go back to your school to get a

certificate of completion to prove to an employer that you have done

so.

>

> With this certification method it is up to you to get your own

site to perform the work and to get a pharmacist to sign you off.

May I suggest that you speak to a pharmacist and get this in writing

before you pay the big bucks. You do have 6 months after you

complete the non-lab or book training part of the course, however it

may be difficult to find a facility that will allow you to come in

to perform your skills. The main problem is interuption of work

flow. So it is very important to get a good rappor with the hospital

director and staff pharmacists. You may want to strike a deal where

you go in after the busy hours are over....during off peak times...

such as graveyard/11pm to 7 am. That may do the trick. Of course you

will want to meet the night pharmacist in advance even if the

director says okay.

>

> Hope these suggestions have helped someone out there.

>

> Please let me know how the program is and what it entails. I

teach aseptic technique, IV;s, TPNs IVPBS LVP's daily for the last 9

years in California. I am very interested in seeing the success of

this program. Several states require certification but no cert

programs that once could afford have been available.

>

> Thanks

> Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

> Founder/Owner

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Note: forwarded message attached.

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

You know, that sounds an awful like another distance course I know of. It to is

worth 40 hours of CE. You do the work book at home and then arrange with a

pharmacy to do the hands on. The Pharmacist then signs off what you have done.

The course I know of is $155.00 US and not 325 $295 for NPTA Members $395

$360 for Non-Members.

At the end of the course you get a certificate of completion.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear All,

The Advertisement in the email I got did not post as an attachment.

So I am typing what it says here:

" " ALERT: NPTA Launches New Sterile Products Certification Program

Are you interested in becoming an IV Certified Pharmacy Technician?

NPTA has developed an all-new sterile products certification course

that requires no travel and is 300% less expensive than prior

courses!Courses begin November 8, 2004, but register by 10-15-04 and

save.For more information - click here.

" http://pharmacytechnician.org/home/sterilecourse.asp

Hope someone can use this!!

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT

> Dear All,

>

> I just got this from NPTA in my email. Well MANY of you have been

asking for this for the last two years!!! In the past I have had

leads on two separate sources that cost up to $1000 dollars. NOW you

can do it for so much less.

>

> Keep in mind if you have attended a school where you learned

aaseptic technique, IV preparation and IV math and you had to

perform mock labs and/or do an externship you may already be IV

certified or you may be able to go back to your school to get a

certificate of completion to prove to an employer that you have done

so.

>

> With this certification method it is up to you to get your own

site to perform the work and to get a pharmacist to sign you off.

May I suggest that you speak to a pharmacist and get this in writing

before you pay the big bucks. You do have 6 months after you

complete the non-lab or book training part of the course, however it

may be difficult to find a facility that will allow you to come in

to perform your skills. The main problem is interuption of work

flow. So it is very important to get a good rappor with the hospital

director and staff pharmacists. You may want to strike a deal where

you go in after the busy hours are over....during off peak times...

such as graveyard/11pm to 7 am. That may do the trick. Of course you

will want to meet the night pharmacist in advance even if the

director says okay.

>

> Hope these suggestions have helped someone out there.

>

> Please let me know how the program is and what it entails. I

teach aseptic technique, IV;s, TPNs IVPBS LVP's daily for the last 9

years in California. I am very interested in seeing the success of

this program. Several states require certification but no cert

programs that once could afford have been available.

>

> Thanks

> Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

> Founder/Owner

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Note: forwarded message attached.

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dear

Please post the exact site addy for that program.

I am aware of a similar one out of New Mexico. Is that the one you

are refering to?

Jeanetta

> > Dear All,

> >

> > I just got this from NPTA in my email. Well MANY of you have

been

> asking for this for the last two years!!! In the past I have had

> leads on two separate sources that cost up to $1000 dollars. NOW

you

> can do it for so much less.

> >

> > Keep in mind if you have attended a school where you learned

> aaseptic technique, IV preparation and IV math and you had to

> perform mock labs and/or do an externship you may already be IV

> certified or you may be able to go back to your school to get a

> certificate of completion to prove to an employer that you have

done

> so.

> >

> > With this certification method it is up to you to get your own

> site to perform the work and to get a pharmacist to sign you off.

> May I suggest that you speak to a pharmacist and get this in

writing

> before you pay the big bucks. You do have 6 months after you

> complete the non-lab or book training part of the course, however

it

> may be difficult to find a facility that will allow you to come in

> to perform your skills. The main problem is interuption of work

> flow. So it is very important to get a good rappor with the

hospital

> director and staff pharmacists. You may want to strike a deal

where

> you go in after the busy hours are over....during off peak

times...

> such as graveyard/11pm to 7 am. That may do the trick. Of course

you

> will want to meet the night pharmacist in advance even if the

> director says okay.

> >

> > Hope these suggestions have helped someone out there.

> >

> > Please let me know how the program is and what it entails. I

> teach aseptic technique, IV;s, TPNs IVPBS LVP's daily for the last

9

> years in California. I am very interested in seeing the success of

> this program. Several states require certification but no cert

> programs that once could afford have been available.

> >

> > Thanks

> > Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

> > Founder/Owner

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Note: forwarded message attached.

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Hello,

The web site is www.pharmacyeducation.cc

They are not in New Mexico, I forget where they are though. But as I said, they

sound very similar and this program I hope to do in the future is alot cheaper.

I checked the one you posted out as well. They both sound very good, so which

ever one anyone decided to do, they would be gaining needed sterile preparation

education as well as hands on experience.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear

Please post the exact site addy for that program.

I am aware of a similar one out of New Mexico. Is that the one you

are refering to?

Jeanetta

> > Dear All,

> >

> > I just got this from NPTA in my email. Well MANY of you have

been

> asking for this for the last two years!!! In the past I have had

> leads on two separate sources that cost up to $1000 dollars. NOW

you

> can do it for so much less.

> >

> > Keep in mind if you have attended a school where you learned

> aaseptic technique, IV preparation and IV math and you had to

> perform mock labs and/or do an externship you may already be IV

> certified or you may be able to go back to your school to get a

> certificate of completion to prove to an employer that you have

done

> so.

> >

> > With this certification method it is up to you to get your own

> site to perform the work and to get a pharmacist to sign you off.

> May I suggest that you speak to a pharmacist and get this in

writing

> before you pay the big bucks. You do have 6 months after you

> complete the non-lab or book training part of the course, however

it

> may be difficult to find a facility that will allow you to come in

> to perform your skills. The main problem is interuption of work

> flow. So it is very important to get a good rappor with the

hospital

> director and staff pharmacists. You may want to strike a deal

where

> you go in after the busy hours are over....during off peak

times...

> such as graveyard/11pm to 7 am. That may do the trick. Of course

you

> will want to meet the night pharmacist in advance even if the

> director says okay.

> >

> > Hope these suggestions have helped someone out there.

> >

> > Please let me know how the program is and what it entails. I

> teach aseptic technique, IV;s, TPNs IVPBS LVP's daily for the last

9

> years in California. I am very interested in seeing the success of

> this program. Several states require certification but no cert

> programs that once could afford have been available.

> >

> > Thanks

> > Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

> > Founder/Owner

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > Note: forwarded message attached.

> >

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

OK, sorry if I step on some toes or ruffle

some feathers---but here goes anyway...

Am I the only one here who believes that sterile prep and IV

certification needs to be validated by someone who has actually had

extensive training/experience in aseptic technique and sterile

compounding---who is indeed an " expert " ?!?! In my opinion, your

average, licensed pharmacist does not qualify as an 'expert' in the

area of aseptic technique and sterile compounding.

Unless you are working in a compounding/infusion pharmacy, chances

are that the pharmacists you work with do little if any

compounding/sterile prep. The most time they spent in a hood was

during their internships in pharmacy school.

While I appreciate affordable education, this is the wrong venue to

try and save a buck. There's just too much at stake not to have

an " EXPERT " teach and oversee your practical training. What we really

need is regional training facilities or a mobile aseptic lab. If they

can have mobile surgery clinics, why not an 18-wheeler IV room?

Sincerely,

Dora

[Guest guest]

I agree with you. The course I was talking about doesn't say that you are

certified upon completion though. It is actually a CE course, but sounds

identical to the one NPTA had advertised. But you are right. It only makes

sense to have someone who truely knows what they are doing to teach that.

However, do you always end up with that when you are taking a course in school

that teaches how to prepare sterile products? I am not sure, I would hope so

though!

CPhT

doracpht <doracpht@...> wrote:

OK, sorry if I step on some toes or ruffle

some feathers---but here goes anyway...

Am I the only one here who believes that sterile prep and IV

certification needs to be validated by someone who has actually had

extensive training/experience in aseptic technique and sterile

compounding---who is indeed an " expert " ?!?! In my opinion, your

average, licensed pharmacist does not qualify as an 'expert' in the

area of aseptic technique and sterile compounding.

Unless you are working in a compounding/infusion pharmacy, chances

are that the pharmacists you work with do little if any

compounding/sterile prep. The most time they spent in a hood was

during their internships in pharmacy school.

While I appreciate affordable education, this is the wrong venue to

try and save a buck. There's just too much at stake not to have

an " EXPERT " teach and oversee your practical training. What we really

need is regional training facilities or a mobile aseptic lab. If they

can have mobile surgery clinics, why not an 18-wheeler IV room?

Sincerely,

Dora

[Guest guest]

So can you tell us the name of this IV certification

distance learning program that costs less that the NPTA one?

I would like to see the main differences, if any.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

> I agree with you. The course I was talking about doesn't say that

you are certified upon completion though. It is actually a CE

course, but sounds identical to the one NPTA had advertised. But

you are right. It only makes sense to have someone who truely knows

what they are doing to teach that. However, do you always end up

with that when you are taking a course in school that teaches how to

prepare sterile products? I am not sure, I would hope so though!

> CPhT

>

>

[Guest guest]

I would like to add my two cents here!

I respect the desire to have a 'qualified' person train and educate

and to test for competency on the certification process. I am not

so sure that it must be a person with 'extensive' training in

compounding. I know lots of voc instructors, including myself, who

are not 'compounders by trade'; but educators and trainers, who have

been IV techs and or have been retail compounders that CAN teach,

CAN train and can test and observe students for IV and Aseptic

Technique competency.

In FACT it is a requirement for passing the course that I teach that

students demonstrate how to their wash hands properly, clean a hood

properly, knowledge of different hoods, how to manipulate their

hands in the various hoods while making admixtures, before they

graduate. They recieve much more than 40 hours of training with ASHP

videos, teacher demonstration, on hands use of syringes, needles, IV

bags and bottles. They learn to reconstitute and to make TPN's and

IVPBS and LVP, all done with sterile technique. In addition a

foundation of chemotherapy is taught, while experience is not

possible. All is followed up with competency exam and written exam.

Our students must get an 80 Percent on written to pass not a 75% or

70%.

If any one says that I can not teach or can not test a studentm with

such in depth training, as well as an IV pharmacist or an expert

with extensive compounding, then I do not deserve to be teaching. On

the other hand I do not believe that a course of 40 hours = ONE WEEK

is enough to state that one is CERTIFIED in excellent aseptic

technique; NO MATTER whether it is taught by a pharmacist, 'expert'

or tech instructor. If the certification is to state that

one 'attended' a course and has been " exposed " then fine. But if a

certification is to state 'proficiency' then I say NO WAY!!! Much

more experience is needed to ascertain proficiency. Again if the

certification is to certify or state the person attended and was

exposed to information and a 'beginning hands on' experience, then I

say okay. But if the cert is to mean or imply proficiency I say no

way .

What I am trying to say is that I do not think it takes a surgeon to

teach anatomy and physiology. Likewise it does not take a person who

does compounding only or extensively to teach aseptic technique. Or

to test it. But it does take MUCH experience on the part of the

trainee or student to PRACTICE and PRACTICE and PRACTICE aseptic

technique. I would state that the person must have

IV/compounding/Aseptic Technique experience.

Most of the techs I worked with were way better with aseptic

technique than the pharmacists I worked with. But I have to admit

they were pretty good too! Why? Because the ones I worked with got

into the trenches and made IV's. The problem with today's

pharmacists of the last 5-8 yrs of graduation is that they depend on

the techs to do soooo much and they rarely get into the trenches;

that they loose what they do not use. I call these the new breed of

pharmacists. I think I stole that from Rob , not sure.... But

the truth is they do not do what the old timers once did and yet

they supervise techs! Most put a great tech in charge of training

aseptic technque: 1. because they can, 2. because it works, 3.

because they are good (perhaps better) 4. because they do not have

time.

I love the idea of a mobile lab. I am up for the position! Any one

hiring?

For the record, my toes are just fine! Hope every one else's toes

re okay too!

Dora I do not think that we differ on the 'new breed' of

pharmacists. But I just do not think the trainer or teacher has to

be a pharmacist of any sort. In California, and according tothe ASHP

model of curriculum, the site for externship may have a designated

trainer that is 'approved' by the director of pharmacy. this trainer

may be a tech. In California the instructor must be a tech or a

pharmacist with at least 3 years of experience. Schools rarely hire

retail only techs, just because of the experience with IV's/aseptic

technique. In addition it is MY job as program director that

a 'standard' method of cleaning hands, the hood, handling syringes

and IV's are being taught, which must be consistent with the model

curriculum and accepted GMPs.

We may be saying the same thing.... But I am anal retentive and hung

up on the 'extensive experience' .

Most respectfully to all,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharmacy Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

> OK, sorry if I step on some toes or ruffle

> some feathers---but here goes anyway...

>

> Am I the only one here who believes that sterile prep and IV

> certification needs to be validated by someone who has actually

had

> extensive training/experience in aseptic technique and sterile

> compounding---who is indeed an " expert " ?!?! In my opinion, your

> average, licensed pharmacist does not qualify as an 'expert' in

the

> area of aseptic technique and sterile compounding.

> Unless you are working in a compounding/infusion pharmacy, chances

> are that the pharmacists you work with do little if any

> compounding/sterile prep. The most time they spent in a hood was

> during their internships in pharmacy school.

>

> While I appreciate affordable education, this is the wrong venue

to

> try and save a buck. There's just too much at stake not to have

> an " EXPERT " teach and oversee your practical training. What we

really

> need is regional training facilities or a mobile aseptic lab. If

they

> can have mobile surgery clinics, why not an 18-wheeler IV room?

>

> Sincerely,

> Dora

[Guest guest]

Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc. Upon completion of the

manual you purchase from them, and do your hands on with a pharmacy you set up

yourself and have the pharmacist sign off a sheet verifying that you complete 12

different duties, Texas Health System Pharmacists grades your work and then

mails you a certificate of completion.

The web site for the course is www.pharmacyeducaton.cc I really want to

complete it when I get some extra money so I have that experience.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

So can you tell us the name of this IV certification

distance learning program that costs less that the NPTA one?

I would like to see the main differences, if any.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

> I agree with you. The course I was talking about doesn't say that

you are certified upon completion though. It is actually a CE

course, but sounds identical to the one NPTA had advertised. But

you are right. It only makes sense to have someone who truely knows

what they are doing to teach that. However, do you always end up

with that when you are taking a course in school that teaches how to

prepare sterile products? I am not sure, I would hope so though!

> CPhT

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you . There may be some dfferences that we are not aware of. But

fo the most part probably not.

Jeanetta

Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc. Upon completion of the

manual you purchase from them, and do your hands on with a pharmacy you set up

yourself and have the pharmacist sign off a sheet verifying that you complete 12

different duties, Texas Health System Pharmacists grades your work and then

mails you a certificate of completion.

The web site for the course is www.pharmacyeducaton.cc I really want to

complete it when I get some extra money so I have that experience.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

So can you tell us the name of this IV certification

distance learning program that costs less that the NPTA one?

I would like to see the main differences, if any.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

[Guest guest]

You are welcome. They both sound great, but for me, I will go with the cheaper

one simply because it is hard enough for me to come up with the money as it is

because I have to convert it to US from Cnd. Anyways, hope I helped.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Thank you . There may be some dfferences that we are not aware of. But

fo the most part probably not.

Jeanetta

Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc. Upon completion of the

manual you purchase from them, and do your hands on with a pharmacy you set up

yourself and have the pharmacist sign off a sheet verifying that you complete 12

different duties, Texas Health System Pharmacists grades your work and then

mails you a certificate of completion.

The web site for the course is www.pharmacyeducaton.cc I really want to

complete it when I get some extra money so I have that experience.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

So can you tell us the name of this IV certification

distance learning program that costs less that the NPTA one?

I would like to see the main differences, if any.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

[Guest guest]

Please keep us informed every step of the way. We all need to know

if this program is good and if we can recommend it.

Jeanetta

> Thank you . There may be some dfferences that we are not

aware of. But fo the most part probably not.

>

> Jeanetta

>

>

> Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc.

[Guest guest]

I too agree with,

I work at NIH and most of the pharmacists here have never worked in a hood

and those that have have been trained here by a technician who was also

trained here. They recently brought a pharmacist from the FDC to trqain

everyone. When I asked her a few questions about sterile technique she

couldn't answer them because she hasn't really worked with IVs that much she

said. We were told she would b certifying us to do IVs,(I found out this

certification is worthless outside of here). I also found out she was using

this experience to gain a higher ranking as a public health officer, so this

would only benifit her.

Re: Re: Fwd: Become_IV_Certified

I agree with you. The course I was talking about doesn't say that you are

certified upon completion though. It is actually a CE course, but sounds

identical to the one NPTA had advertised. But you are right. It only makes

sense to have someone who truely knows what they are doing to teach that.

However, do you always end up with that when you are taking a course in

school that teaches how to prepare sterile products? I am not sure, I would

hope so though!

CPhT

doracpht <doracpht@...> wrote:

OK, sorry if I step on some toes or ruffle

some feathers---but here goes anyway...

Am I the only one here who believes that sterile prep and IV

certification needs to be validated by someone who has actually had

extensive training/experience in aseptic technique and sterile

compounding---who is indeed an " expert " ?!?! In my opinion, your

average, licensed pharmacist does not qualify as an 'expert' in the

area of aseptic technique and sterile compounding.

Unless you are working in a compounding/infusion pharmacy, chances

are that the pharmacists you work with do little if any

compounding/sterile prep. The most time they spent in a hood was

during their internships in pharmacy school.

While I appreciate affordable education, this is the wrong venue to

try and save a buck. There's just too much at stake not to have

an " EXPERT " teach and oversee your practical training. What we really

need is regional training facilities or a mobile aseptic lab. If they

can have mobile surgery clinics, why not an 18-wheeler IV room?

Sincerely,

Dora

[Guest guest]

Hi Dora,

I have wondered about the validity of the NPTA IV Certification

program due to it not involving a VALID practical aspect of

certification of which I would think would be even more necessary

than the didactic aspect.

I am not saying the IV certification program is necessarily bad. I

am just saying that the program lacks a true practical aspect that

can be monitored for consistency and validity. For now all I see is

a 20.00 manual and binder being offered for a fee of 395.00 that is

expensive for the average Pharmacy Technician. Especially when the

Pharmacy Technician is ON THEIR OWN in obtaining the practical

aspect required.

This is just my own personal view. I am sure with all of the

Pharmacy Technicians in need of IV Certification, NPTA will be there

and they will make much money in the offering of their program. But

again, does this offering fulfill the need of the Pharmacy Technician

or is it just another opportunity for NPTA to make hard earned money

off of Pharmacy Technicians?

With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing our

profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its capability

to make a great deal of money off of their IV Certification program.

But if I were to offer one of my own, I would include the practical

aspect as well. As mentioned many times before in my postings, it

is one thing to know about aseptic technique and another to actually

do aseptic technique.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

OK, sorry if I step on some toes or ruffle

some feathers---but here goes anyway...

Am I the only one here who believes that sterile prep and IV

certification needs to be validated by someone who has actually had

extensive training/experience in aseptic technique and sterile

compounding---who is indeed an " expert " ?!?! In my opinion, your

average, licensed pharmacist does not qualify as an 'expert' in the

area of aseptic technique and sterile compounding.

Unless you are working in a compounding/infusion pharmacy, chances

are that the pharmacists you work with do little if any

compounding/sterile prep. The most time they spent in a hood was

during their internships in pharmacy school.

While I appreciate affordable education, this is the wrong venue to

try and save a buck. There's just too much at stake not to have

an " EXPERT " teach and oversee your practical training. What we really

need is regional training facilities or a mobile aseptic lab. If they

can have mobile surgery clinics, why not an 18-wheeler IV room?

Sincerely,

Dora

[Guest guest]

Dear ,

I am trying to do a 'piece' on a comparison of IV certification

product and services available. The address that you provided does

not work can you please correct it???

Thanks

Jeanetta

> " " Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc. Upon

completion of the manual you purchase from them, and do your hands

on with a pharmacy you set up yourself and have the pharmacist sign

off a sheet verifying that you complete 12 different duties, Texas

Health System Pharmacists grades your work and then mails you a

certificate of completion.

> The web site for the course is www.pharmacyeducaton.cc I really

want to complete it when I get some extra money so I have that

experience.

> CPhT " " "

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

> Hi Dora,

>

> I have wondered about the validity of the NPTA IV Certification

> program due to it not involving a VALID practical aspect of

> certification of which I would think would be even more necessary

> than the didactic aspect.

>

> I am not saying the IV certification program is necessarily bad. I

> am just saying that the program lacks a true practical aspect that

> can be monitored for consistency and validity. For now all I see is

> a 20.00 manual and binder being offered for a fee of 395.00 that is

> expensive for the average Pharmacy Technician. Especially when the

> Pharmacy Technician is ON THEIR OWN in obtaining the practical

> aspect required.

>

> This is just my own personal view. I am sure with all of the

> Pharmacy Technicians in need of IV Certification, NPTA will be

there

> and they will make much money in the offering of their program. But

> again, does this offering fulfill the need of the Pharmacy

Technician

> or is it just another opportunity for NPTA to make hard earned

money

> off of Pharmacy Technicians?

>

> With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing our

> profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its capability

> to make a great deal of money off of their IV Certification

program.

> But if I were to offer one of my own, I would include the practical

> aspect as well. As mentioned many times before in my postings, it

> is one thing to know about aseptic technique and another to

actually

> do aseptic technique.

>

> Respectfully,

> Joe Medina, CPhT

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Jeanetta,

I do accept your post in the positive spirit and do concede that I

did not take other offerings into consideration. From your postings

on this subject, since the SAME book is used, I do get the sense that

the fee of 395.00 is mainly because NPTA offers a Certificate of

Completion. So in essence the Pharmacy Technician is paying for a

piece of paper.

My main concern was that the practical aspect of training is the part

of which the Technician must do on their own and there is NO validity

in what they get. This I find unfair to the individual Pharmacy

Technician who may or may not be getting the proper practical

training required.

I suppose I too could enter the bandwagon in the offering of a

manual / binder and having the Technician find their own practical

training. I of course would charge much less because it is the fair

thing to do especially for the little I would offer.

As an " NPTA Poster Child " , I can understand your stance and need to

glorify this organization, but also as an individual who cares about

our profession, you too must have concern about what NPTA or OTHER

organizations current offerings.

If this is bashing NPTA, then I apologize. I am just pointing out

the fact that not all is at it appears.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

http://www.techlectures.com

-----------

Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

[Guest guest]

Hello again,

I am not sure why it is not working. If I type in the address, it works fine

for me.

I put in www.pharmacyeducation.cc and it takes you to the home page. From there

you go to products on the left side of the page and it will give you the

following choices Product 1, self-instructional CE products for Technicians,

Product 2, ACPE sterile products Manuals for Pharmacists and Technicians.

Product 2 is the one you want, there it will give you information on the course

for Technicians, as well as the same course for Pharmacists.

Let me know if you have any other trouble.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear ,

I am trying to do a 'piece' on a comparison of IV certification

product and services available. The address that you provided does

not work can you please correct it???

Thanks

Jeanetta

> " " Sure, it is sold by Pharmacy Education Resources Inc. Upon

completion of the manual you purchase from them, and do your hands

on with a pharmacy you set up yourself and have the pharmacist sign

off a sheet verifying that you complete 12 different duties, Texas

Health System Pharmacists grades your work and then mails you a

certificate of completion.

> The web site for the course is www.pharmacyeducaton.cc I really

want to complete it when I get some extra money so I have that

experience.

> CPhT " " "

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hello,

I have a question. If Pharm Ed. and NAPT have the same text to use and use the

same validation list to be checked by a Pharmacists, and Pharm Ed. is only a

certificate of completion where as NAPT is a certification couse, is that really

a certification course. I would think that if it could be considered a

certification course, then Pharm Ed. would also consider it the same since they

both use the same text and have the same validation check list.

It doesn't make sense to me that if they are the same but one is only considered

CE and the other somehow is a certification, that seems strange. I have

actually talked to Pharm Ed. before and he explained what the check list

includes and to me it is not enough to be a certification for Sterile products

preparation.

If there are any other differences I missed please do let me know. Also, did

you manage to get the website to work?

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

> Hi Dora,

>

> I have wondered about the validity of the NPTA IV Certification

> program due to it not involving a VALID practical aspect of

> certification of which I would think would be even more necessary

> than the didactic aspect.

>

> I am not saying the IV certification program is necessarily bad. I

> am just saying that the program lacks a true practical aspect that

> can be monitored for consistency and validity. For now all I see is

> a 20.00 manual and binder being offered for a fee of 395.00 that is

> expensive for the average Pharmacy Technician. Especially when the

> Pharmacy Technician is ON THEIR OWN in obtaining the practical

> aspect required.

>

> This is just my own personal view. I am sure with all of the

> Pharmacy Technicians in need of IV Certification, NPTA will be

there

> and they will make much money in the offering of their program. But

> again, does this offering fulfill the need of the Pharmacy

Technician

> or is it just another opportunity for NPTA to make hard earned

money

> off of Pharmacy Technicians?

>

> With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing our

> profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its capability

> to make a great deal of money off of their IV Certification

program.

> But if I were to offer one of my own, I would include the practical

> aspect as well. As mentioned many times before in my postings, it

> is one thing to know about aseptic technique and another to

actually

> do aseptic technique.

>

> Respectfully,

> Joe Medina, CPhT

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi and Jeanetta,

Now the plot thickens. If the check-off sheet is not enough to

actually make one considered certified then how can national

certification be offered using this format? Not only is the

practical aspect validated, but the practical aspect is simply basic.

Maybe I am missing something. My sense of one being nationally

certified especially in the IV Certification sense is that one has

SPECIALIZED in the area of both didactic and more importantly

practical aspect of making different types of Intravenous fluids.

For an employer, the hiring of a national IV Certified Technician

should mean this individual knows EXACTLY what they are doing when it

comes to both knowledge and the practical aspect, including aseptic

technique in the making of most IV's presented.

With the current format of which NPTA offers a national

certification, this appears to mean that the individual pharmacy

technician has ONLY limited knowledge and may or may not have some

practical experience. In fact, one can become nationally certified

without ever working in the IV room setting.

So we go back to why is NPTA offering a national IV Certification

program? Simply because the need is there and money can be made.

Good for the individual Pharmacy Technician seeking IV Certification,

good for NPTA in the making more money off of Pharmacy Technicians,

bad for our profession.

Maybe this is of no concern to many, but for yourself or a loved one

who someday will be receiving an IV made by a nationally certified

Pharmacy Technician, I would like to think that all is well.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

I know many have this need to hold NPTA in the highest regard, but if

we were to look at this with even limited intelligence we should see

much soundness in what I am posting.

-----------

I have actually talked to Pharm Ed. before and he explained what the

check list includes and to me it is not enough to be a certification

for Sterile products preparation.

[Guest guest]

Hi Jeanetta,

I too hold you in the highest regard because I think you are one of

only a handful of individuals that truly advocate our profession

because you simply care. Your Forum is an excellent source of

information and has helped hundreds of individual Pharmacy

Technicians in the passing of the national exam and more importantly,

in new careers.

It is with this concern that I bring up the National IV Certification

program offered by NPTA. As one who believes in the quality and

need for education and not just the passing of a national exam, I

would think you would of realized that what is currently being

offered is NOT of the educational value considered necessary and

totally unfair to the individual Pharmacy Technician and our

profession.

Yes many will flock to NPTA for IV Certification and NPTA will make

more money, but how does this make our profession better?

I will disengage myself from this topic as again many feel I am just

bashing NPTA. In actuality I am just bringing up a topic that no one

else will because they may be stepping on someone's toes.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

[Guest guest]

Dear Joe,

I do not think that your last post is NPTA bashing per se.

Actually I appreciate your concession. FINALLY! Thank you!

As I HAVE ALREADY stated I am concerned with the amount of time spent in the

training. To me 40 hours is not enough time.

Now as far as your concern and that of Dora, regarding 'who' is doing the

validation, well I think it is very possible that a pharmacist who is geared and

practicing more in retail may sign someone off. But I do hope that the

pharmacist who signs off must be actively practicing in a hospital or IV

setting. After all the student MUST make such products in a hood to get signed

off.

Since pharmacy is the number 2 ( used to be #1) trusted profession, I for one

have better faith than the two of you or I am just plain nuts or too

trustworthy and naive???.

I think it is " NPTA " bashing when the only company or org that you can find

fault with is " NPTA " .

I personally can be a poster child for any organization that does well by techs!

That includes AAPT, CSHP ASHP. ACPE, NPTA etc and I will continue to fight

against any thing said negatively that is not true or not substantiated on MY

site. I am and have always been for the little guy and for all recognition and

education for technicians.

Say what you like on your site Joe, that is your perogotive. I am actually happy

to have you here so that I can set the record straight on anything you may say

that is incorrect or not substantiated about ANY organization! As I WILL NOT

do so on your site. That would be JOE bashing!

When it comes to NPTA you just do not see straight! But I hope to set the

record straight whenever I can. Howver I call 'em as I sees 'em! So if and when

you ever say anything that is correct about NPTA, if NPTA were to be wrong in a

given issue, I will be the first to applaud and to agree with you! Just as I

would about any other entity.

Respectfully,

Tech Advocacy Poster Child

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BSChem

Founder/Owner

PS for those who do not know Mr Joe Medina and I we go back a long way and we

have counter pointed each other many atime in the past. Fior the most part we

agree on many tech issues. I beieve I speak for both of us when I say, we both

hope that no one reads animosity inour posts, but rather jest, opinion, chide,

professional critisicm and fun.Of course in my case FACT !

Joe Medina <techlectures@...> wrote:

Hi Jeanetta,

I do accept your post in the positive spirit and do concede that I

did not take other offerings into consideration. From your postings

on this subject, since the SAME book is used, I do get the sense that

the fee of 395.00 is mainly because NPTA offers a Certificate of

Completion. So in essence the Pharmacy Technician is paying for a

piece of paper.

My main concern was that the practical aspect of training is the part

of which the Technician must do on their own and there is NO validity

in what they get. This I find unfair to the individual Pharmacy

Technician who may or may not be getting the proper practical

training required.

I suppose I too could enter the bandwagon in the offering of a

manual / binder and having the Technician find their own practical

training. I of course would charge much less because it is the fair

thing to do especially for the little I would offer.

As an " NPTA Poster Child " , I can understand your stance and need to

glorify this organization, but also as an individual who cares about

our profession, you too must have concern about what NPTA or OTHER

organizations current offerings.

If this is bashing NPTA, then I apologize. I am just pointing out

the fact that not all is at it appears.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

http://www.techlectures.com

-----------

Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

[Guest guest]

and Joe,

First of all I have never said ( I do not think I better re-read) that the three

entitities have th esame check off list. I would have no idea of knowing that.

I found no reference to this. So if I have said this please forgive me. but

please le t me know where I said it ( if I did).

What I meant by the 'same validation process' is taht they all 3 require to have

the tech find a site and pharmacist to validate the training and practice.

Secondly I think you ALL are getting the wrong idea about a certification course

onSteril Products preparation. It does not state that a peson would be a master

at preparing all types of IV's . It means however that a person could prepare

them self, a hood, and the equipment used to prepare sterile products.

The intent of such a course is to teach/train a person in proper aseptic

technque in order to prepare sterile products. IF in fact the programs use the

same check off list, then what does it matter as long as the person is prepared.

That is WHY the state of TEXAS accepted the CE/Cert of Attendance programs of

Pharm Ed. BEFORE NPTA certificate program existed they were not called

certification courses. NPTA may very well be using the same check off list. I

doubt it. NPTA uses a 10 point list and Pharm Ed uses a 12 point list. Whats on

the lists? Who knows??? Does 10 mean less in quality?? not if two points are

combined??? Any one know???

My POINT is ONLY NPTA has had the smarts to use the words that the 'industry'

has been asking for : " Certification " in Sterile Perparation : not CE or Cert of

Attendance!!! Just watch and see the programs change their titles. markmy

words. If you want to market and sell you are going to have to give what they

need or want. Other companies and perhaps Pharm Ed will change. Pergaps not.

Depends upon sales and if what they sell is useful and adequate.

I will not entertain any more about NPTA making money off of techs while other

companies are doing the same, and for good reason, to further the profession to

certifiy techs aseptic technique. Can they wash their hands well? Can they

prepare adn clean a hood aseptically? do they know about air flow and how to

manipulate their hands? Do they understand how to organize materials in the

hood? etc. See the outline that New Mexico has. Now if the tech can do all this

and knows about this then he or she is 'ready' to go to a hospital to get hired

to be FURTHER TRAINED !!!!

End of story.

On this site lets get back to basics: Answering PTCB study questions.

Let's move this topic back to Tech Lectures where Joe, Dora and can make

all the statements they want. I am pulling the plug on this because it is

distracting to my intent of my site. It served a purpose:

1. Buyer beware

2. You get what you pay for (Cert vs Ce vs Attendance

3. Informing all of where one can obtain sucha cert.

Any honest new information and or questions regarding ithis topic can and will

be

posted.

Any old rehashing of NPTA bashing or other companies offering such a service so

that techs can get their feet in the hospital door is just plain motivated by

malice and forethought. Therefore ENOUGH is ENOUGH!!

END OF STORY!!

Most Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner

Pottruff <jennycpht@...> wrote:

Hello,

I have a question. If Pharm Ed. and NAPT have the same text to use and use the

same validation list to be checked by a Pharmacists, and Pharm Ed. is only a

certificate of completion where as NAPT is a certification couse, is that really

a certification course. I would think that if it could be considered a

certification course, then Pharm Ed. would also consider it the same since they

both use the same text and have the same validation check list.

It doesn't make sense to me that if they are the same but one is only considered

CE and the other somehow is a certification, that seems strange. I have

actually talked to Pharm Ed. before and he explained what the check list

includes and to me it is not enough to be a certification for Sterile products

preparation.

If there are any other differences I missed please do let me know. Also, did

you manage to get the website to work?

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chemistry <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.

> Hi Dora,

>

> I have wondered about the validity of the NPTA IV Certification

> program due to it not involving a VALID practical aspect of

> certification of which I would think would be even more necessary

> than the didactic aspect.

>

> I am not saying the IV certification program is necessarily bad. I

> am just saying that the program lacks a true practical aspect that

> can be monitored for consistency and validity. For now all I see is

> a 20.00 manual and binder being offered for a fee of 395.00 that is

> expensive for the average Pharmacy Technician. Especially when the

> Pharmacy Technician is ON THEIR OWN in obtaining the practical

> aspect required.

>

> This is just my own personal view. I am sure with all of the

> Pharmacy Technicians in need of IV Certification, NPTA will be

there

> and they will make much money in the offering of their program. But

> again, does this offering fulfill the need of the Pharmacy

Technician

> or is it just another opportunity for NPTA to make hard earned

money

> off of Pharmacy Technicians?

>

> With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing our

> profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its capability

> to make a great deal of money off of their IV Certification

program.

> But if I were to offer one of my own, I would include the practical

> aspect as well. As mentioned many times before in my postings, it

> is one thing to know about aseptic technique and another to

actually

> do aseptic technique.

>

> Respectfully,

> Joe Medina, CPhT

>

>

[Guest guest]

Thank you Joe,

Jeanetta

Joe Medina <techlectures@...> wrote:

Hi Jeanetta,

I too hold you in the highest regard because I think you are one of

only a handful of individuals that truly advocate our profession

because you simply care. Your Forum is an excellent source of

information and has helped hundreds of individual Pharmacy

Technicians in the passing of the national exam and more importantly,

in new careers.

It is with this concern that I bring up the National IV Certification

program offered by NPTA. As one who believes in the quality and

need for education and not just the passing of a national exam, I

would think you would of realized that what is currently being

offered is NOT of the educational value considered necessary and

totally unfair to the individual Pharmacy Technician and our

profession.

Yes many will flock to NPTA for IV Certification and NPTA will make

more money, but how does this make our profession better?

I will disengage myself from this topic as again many feel I am just

bashing NPTA. In actuality I am just bringing up a topic that no one

else will because they may be stepping on someone's toes.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

[Guest guest]

Hello,

I would think that you would have to get a pharmacist working in a hospital or

IV setting to sign off (if you were actually going to do the work) because of

the nature of the list that the student must complete. Most of them couldn't be

done in a retail setting.

CPhT

Jeanetta Mastron <rxjm2002@...> wrote:

Dear Joe,

I do not think that your last post is NPTA bashing per se.

Actually I appreciate your concession. FINALLY! Thank you!

As I HAVE ALREADY stated I am concerned with the amount of time spent in the

training. To me 40 hours is not enough time.

Now as far as your concern and that of Dora, regarding 'who' is doing the

validation, well I think it is very possible that a pharmacist who is geared and

practicing more in retail may sign someone off. But I do hope that the

pharmacist who signs off must be actively practicing in a hospital or IV

setting. After all the student MUST make such products in a hood to get signed

off.

Since pharmacy is the number 2 ( used to be #1) trusted profession, I for one

have better faith than the two of you or I am just plain nuts or too

trustworthy and naive???.

I think it is " NPTA " bashing when the only company or org that you can find

fault with is " NPTA " .

I personally can be a poster child for any organization that does well by techs!

That includes AAPT, CSHP ASHP. ACPE, NPTA etc and I will continue to fight

against any thing said negatively that is not true or not substantiated on MY

site. I am and have always been for the little guy and for all recognition and

education for technicians.

Say what you like on your site Joe, that is your perogotive. I am actually happy

to have you here so that I can set the record straight on anything you may say

that is incorrect or not substantiated about ANY organization! As I WILL NOT

do so on your site. That would be JOE bashing!

When it comes to NPTA you just do not see straight! But I hope to set the

record straight whenever I can. Howver I call 'em as I sees 'em! So if and when

you ever say anything that is correct about NPTA, if NPTA were to be wrong in a

given issue, I will be the first to applaud and to agree with you! Just as I

would about any other entity.

Respectfully,

Tech Advocacy Poster Child

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BSChem

Founder/Owner

PS for those who do not know Mr Joe Medina and I we go back a long way and we

have counter pointed each other many atime in the past. Fior the most part we

agree on many tech issues. I beieve I speak for both of us when I say, we both

hope that no one reads animosity inour posts, but rather jest, opinion, chide,

professional critisicm and fun.Of course in my case FACT !

Joe Medina <techlectures@...> wrote:

Hi Jeanetta,

I do accept your post in the positive spirit and do concede that I

did not take other offerings into consideration. From your postings

on this subject, since the SAME book is used, I do get the sense that

the fee of 395.00 is mainly because NPTA offers a Certificate of

Completion. So in essence the Pharmacy Technician is paying for a

piece of paper.

My main concern was that the practical aspect of training is the part

of which the Technician must do on their own and there is NO validity

in what they get. This I find unfair to the individual Pharmacy

Technician who may or may not be getting the proper practical

training required.

I suppose I too could enter the bandwagon in the offering of a

manual / binder and having the Technician find their own practical

training. I of course would charge much less because it is the fair

thing to do especially for the little I would offer.

As an " NPTA Poster Child " , I can understand your stance and need to

glorify this organization, but also as an individual who cares about

our profession, you too must have concern about what NPTA or OTHER

organizations current offerings.

If this is bashing NPTA, then I apologize. I am just pointing out

the fact that not all is at it appears.

Respectfully,

Joe Medina, CPhT

http://www.techlectures.com

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Dear Mr Joe Medina,

I see that you have once again joined this site.

I respect all your good work Joe. You are a true advocate. You

continue to help many technicians and students. However, sometimes

you bark when you should not be barking. Or at least you bark in the

wrong direction! I think this is one of those times:

I ask you to question your own judgement on the validity of NPTA

practical aspect of certification process. NPTA states clearly that

it does not do this part of the certification process, but rather

leaves this to a practicing licensed pharmacist, which is slightly

different than NMSHP which states it uses a " NMSHP approved

instructor " . It is interesting to note that NPTA's validity process

is identical to that of of Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education

Resources.

Further if you will read the area near the summary of my previous

post you will note that Texas has already approved two similar

programs. Both of which have a validation process identical to that

of NPTA. The difference being that they do not call the programs a

Certificate in the IV or Aseptic Technique or Sterile Product Prep,

but simply CE or Cert of Attendance. Why is that? Is it because the

programs just are not up to par? Or is it because the other two

programs do not want to take responsibility? Or is it because

Certification was not a requirement at the time the programs were

initiated???

I personally would like to see a longer program. I do not think that

40 hours is enough. But who are you and I do disagree with TEXAS

law??

It is interesting to me that you PICK on NPTA ALL the time....see

your own site and comments there....but you always fail to mention

the other guys out there that are also charging techs and

pharmacists for the same thing!!!! You did not mention the fact that

Pharm Ed or Pharmacy Education Resources has the very same program.

Oh except for the fact that they give only a cert of attendance.

While it is true that NPTA program costs about twice as much, you

get what you pay for: a Certificate in IV Sterile Prep vs CE or Cert

of Attendance.

If your statements regarding NPTA's validity process are to be taken

as truth and concern, then you MUST have the SAME concerns for the

validity process of Pharm Ed or PER programs, not to mention

NMSHP's.

Let's face it, others have done the research and found that this

validation process is good acceptable and will satisfy the state's

needs (NW and Tx).

While I argue the length of all three programs' and not the quality

or the content, you only argue the validity process of ONE program.

I ask you to research the three that I have and give one of the two

following opinions:

1. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that take

money from techs, NPTA being twice as high, and I question the

validity process of all of them.

or

2. I, Joe Medina, concede that there are other programs that provide

sterile product preparation, with the same validation process, but

only one, that from NPTA, that yields a true certification for such,

even though they may be accepted by TSHP or Texas BOP. This may be

why NPTA charges so much.

Joe knowing you as well as I do, you are not capable of making a

decision between comments 1 or 2 ONLY. You will tack on your own

ammendment which will undoubtedly paint NPTA once again as a

villian. You always do. You do this even though your readers have

counted the many, many times that you say you will not.

All I ask of you is to do research BEFORE you make statements that

are broad and could be applied to any number of associations,

businesses or organizations.

Cost? you want to talk about cost? Okay I agree NPTA is twice as

much. But what is the tech getting for that? Is it worth it? What do

you want your paper to certify? What does the tech need it to state

to get a job in their particular state??? Attendance or

Accomplishment?

In addition I will take this opportunity to remind you and everyone

else, that this site is not here to bash any particular program or

book or ce offering. However I do take constructive criticizm

seriously. So if you want to further discuss the pros and cons of

these programs please remember only in a productive manner. No

bashing!

I am going to also attempt to address your NPTA BASHING:

1. " With the for profit million dollar business NPTA monopolizing

our profession, I am sure what I say has no deviation in its

capability to make a great deal of money off of their IV

Certification program. " Joe Medina

First of all since this is the good old USA NPTA, LIKE Techlectuers

has the right to make money and to be a business. One may not like

the buisness or the owner, but it is legal to make a profit.

Second of all NPTA is not monopolizing the profession. If it were

there would not be other companies or organizations out there that

are offering the same or similar educational programs. They just

happen to be the only one AT THIS time that offers a Certificate of

accomplishment not just a CE or cert of attendance. Smart huh??

2. " For now all I see is a 20.00 manual and binder being offered

for a fee of 395.00 that is expensive for the average Pharmacy

Technician. "

Joe Medina

First of all I have NO CLUE where you got the price of $20 for this

mannual. I tried to find a price online and I could not find one. It

simply is not listed. I believe because the course is offered with

it in all instances. So how do YOU KNOW what the price is.

Secondly we are back to any business in USA is allowed to charge

what it wants except pharmacy. They are allowed to gouge even if it

means no one will buy from them.

Thirdly you underestimate the American public and certainly the

American Pharmacy Tech or student. If they want a service they will

either randomly choose one or they will investigate. Those that

investigate for educational purposes only will probably go with the

cheapest one; while those that investigate for the speicific words

of certification on the paper they get will probably go with NPTA or

any other in the future that provides such that is cheaper.

Fourth: You fail to recall or mention that NPTA once did offer its

own certification for the prohibative $1000. It was prohibative

because one had to fly to Texas for the physical aspect amd because

they had to set up the location of hands on at a facility.

Fifth: If you offered your own it would have to be ACPE approved to

be competitive, but you state that you would never do this. It

would also have to be expensive if you were to fly from state to

state or you would only be able to offer it in one area of Colorado

which means it would be cost prohibative for the tech outside of

Colorado. Back to square one!

Joe I hope you do come up with an IV Certification Program that can

be validated by you alone and can be cheap enough for the average

tech. I have thought about this idea for a long time. Outside of the

mobile lab that Dora came up with I have no other idea that can keep

the cost down. More power to you if you are able and capable of

doing this.

In my state IV Certification is not required because schools and

military have their own training and education and also hospitals

take care of their own upon hire. Those with PTCB only after Jan

2004 will need some type of certification. I think schools are the

answer to provide the foundation andmock labs, with a live on hands

component later.

I do hope that you accept this post in the positive spirit in which

it is delivered. I stay away from commenting on what I disagree with

you on your site. But once you travel to my site, if I disagree with

you I will definitely NOT KEEP QUIET!!

With Respect,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS Chem

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site.