Pharmacy Technician Organization
Oncology Pharmacy Technician Association
As the only forum for the global oncology pharmacy technician community, OPTA provides a voice and resources for oncology pharmacy technicians worldwide. OPTA is by oncology pharmacy technicians for oncology pharmacy technicians. We give our members this platform to connect and work together to advance personally and professionally to provide a higher level of care for our patients. For us, that means advocating for oncology pharmacy technicians to be an influential voice for patients undergoing cancer care. Membership is complimentary.
Meet Jennifer Dix, CPhT, a dedicated pharmacy technician with over 20 years of experience spanning retail, health systems, and insurance. Now specializing in prior authorizations and patient financial support, Jennifer finds joy in making a real difference.
Her efforts to improve workflows, like streamlining cold chain shipping, demonstrate her focus on efficiency and patient safety. Combined with her compassionate approach, she’s making a meaningful impact on patient care
“Securing medication for a patient and knowing I’ve made a real difference in their journey is what keeps me going. The gratitude they show—sometimes even to the point of tears—reminds me why I chose this path.”
Learn more about Jennifer's role
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as a pharmacy technician?
I started as a pharmacy technician in 2001 at Target Pharmacy, becoming certified and advancing to Technician Lead. In 2007, I joined HealthPartners as Lead Technician before moving to the insurance side in prior authorization. In 2020, I brought my diverse experience to my current role.
Explain your current role at your practice.
Our team consists of six members, each responsible for a set of clinics. We manage prior authorizations, guide pharmacies on medication selection, and assist with finding financial support for patients.
What aspects of being a pharmacy technician do you find most rewarding?
The most rewarding part of my work is securing medication coverage, and when I’m able to find financial assistance for patients, their gratitude is overwhelming—sometimes even bringing them to tears.
How do you stay updated on new medications and advancements in pharmacy practice? Are there any certifications or specialized training you are pursuing or have completed?
My goal is to obtain the oncology certification. In the meantime, I focus on reading relevant articles and earning continuing education credits.
How do you ensure excellent patient care when patients? Can you share a memorable patient interaction that had a positive impact on their experience?
We use Smartsheets to track prior authorization approvals and financial assistance, including relevant dates. This system sends notifications when approvals are within 30 days of expiring, ensuring we stay on top of renewals.
How do you collaborate with pharmacists and other team members of the multidisciplinary team to ensure quality patient care?
We all work together as a team for our patients and keep the lines of communication open.
How do you handle changes or challenges in pharmacy operations or technology? Are there any innovative practices or improvements you’ve introduced in your role?
I embrace change, particularly when it enhances patient safety and improves workflow. Last year, I helped implement a change in our cold chain shipping process by switching to pre-assembled packing products. This small change significantly streamlined our workflow and had a positive impact on efficiency.
How do you collaborate with pharmacists and other team members of the multidisciplinary team to ensure quality patient care?
As a remote team, most communication happens through Teams or chat messages. We also have a weekly meeting with our pharmacy managers, but we’re in constant contact with nursing staff and providers.
What achievements or moments in your career as a pharmacy technician are you most proud of?
While working in the pharmacy, I managed inventory and reduced our on-hand costs by 50%, ensuring we maintained sufficient stock levels to minimize out-of-stock situations.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to become a pharmacy technician? Are there specific qualities or skills you believe are crucial for success in this role?
You need to have thick skin! For those entering the field now, retail pharmacy can be challenging. If possible, I’d recommend considering a move to specialty pharmacy for a different experience.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue outside of your role as a pharmacy technician? How do you find the balance between work and personal life?
I enjoy walking my dog daily, playing piano, creating watercolor art, kayaking, and hiking. Working from home allows me to multitask, like throwing in a load of laundry, and my husband and I often take walks together during lunchtime.
Complimentary Continuing Education For Pharmacy Technicians
By empowering pharmacy technicians, we can create better continuity of care for patients being treated with oral oncolytics. Through free continuing education for pharmacy technicians, we’re equipping technicians with the knowledge they need to provide quality care to cancer patients.
OPTA’S MISSION
Our Mission is to strengthen and empower oncology pharmacy technicians in their increasingly vital role as part of the medically integrated team by providing leadership and professional development opportunities to ensure better outcomes for cancer patients.
our vision and values
Our vision is for each patient to receive the maximum benefit from their cancer treatment. We can achieve this by cultivating a community focused on advancing the oncology pharmacy technician’s role through professional development and innovation.
Questions about OPTA? Please contact Taryn.Newsome@NCODA.org for more information.
Resources
OPTA LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE
Alicia Barnes, CPhT
AON, Patient Assistance Technician
BRANDI GUDWIEN, CPHT
Alabama Cancer, Patient Advocate
EMILY ZIMDARS, CPHT
M Health Fairview, Business Operations Specialist – Oncology
LINDA GRIMSLEY, CPHT
Vicginia Cancer Specialists, Retail Pharmacy Supervisor
SARA EISENHART, CPHT
AON, Patient Assistant Advocate
TERI ROBERTS, CPHT
Arizona Oncology, Pharmacy Technician, Admixture and Oral Medications
Vonda McClendon, CPhT
Texas Oncology, Pharmacy Technican
Carol Hemersbach, CPhT, BSHCA
Arizona Blood and Cancer Specialists, Admixture/IOD Technician
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315-655-4640
P.O. Box 468
Cazenovia, NY 13035