Ontario Registered Pharmacy Technician (RphT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free RphT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The distinction between pharmacists and pharmacy technicians lies significantly in their roles concerning clinical decision-making and medication therapy management. Pharmacists hold advanced training and education, typically requiring a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, which equips them with the knowledge to assess a patient's therapeutic needs, evaluate medication regimens, and optimize pharmacotherapy. This capability enables them to provide clinical decisions that ensure safe and effective treatment for patients, as well as engage in medication therapy management, which involves reviewing a patient's medications to improve outcomes and mitigate adverse effects.

In contrast, pharmacy technicians primarily assist with technical tasks within the pharmacy setting, such as dispensing medications, managing inventory, and handling pharmacy operations under the supervision of a pharmacist. They are not trained to make clinical decisions or manage therapy directly. This key difference emphasizes the pharmacist's central role in clinical care and patient-centered services, reflecting their critical function in the healthcare team.