certificationNationally Recognized

Medication Therapy Management Certificate (MTM)

The Medication Therapy Management Certificate certifies pharmacists in the skills needed to provide medication therapy management services. It involves reviewing and managing a patient's medications to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Total Cost

Estimated Budget

$650$2,350

Median Salary

Annual Earnings

$37,370

Job Growth

10-Year Outlook

2.5%

Training Hours

Total Program Duration

20-40 hours of MTM-specific training

Who Needs This Credential?

Pharmacists and pharmacy staff who are involved in direct patient care and who wish to provide medication therapy management services to improve patient health outcomes.

Reciprocity is generally not applicable as the certification is recognized nationally, but state-specific regulations may affect practice.

American Pharmacists AssociationNational Association of Chain Drug StoresHealthcareNationally Recognized

Requirements

To earn a Medication Therapy Management Certificate, pharmacists typically need a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, completion of specific training programs, and a valid pharmacy license. Eligibility often requires demonstrating skills in medication therapy management through both coursework and practical experience.

Minimum Age
18
Minimum Education
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
Training Hours
20-40 hours of MTM-specific training
Background Check
Verification of licensure, criminal record check, and past employment verification

Other Requirements

Current immunizationsTB testActive pharmacy license

How to Become MTM Certified

Obtaining a Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Certificate involves several steps, typically taking about 3-6 months depending on the provider and individual pace. Candidates must complete coursework, pass an exam, and often fulfill practical experience requirements.

1

Meet Basic Requirements

Verify eligibility, which generally includes holding a current pharmacist license in the U.S. and possibly meeting specific educational prerequisites.

1-2 weeks Free

Check eligibility requirements on the certifying body's website.

2

Select a Certification Program

Choose an accredited MTM certification program. Options vary by focus, cost, and format (online or in-person).

1 day Free

Compare programs based on curriculum, accreditation, and reviews.

3

Complete Coursework

Enroll and complete the required coursework, which typically includes clinical pharmacology, patient communication, and specific disease management.

2-4 months $500 - $2500

Stay organized and adhere to a study schedule to manage time effectively.

4

Gain Practical Experience

Some programs require hands-on experience in MTM. This may involve case studies, simulations, or supervised clinical practice.

1-2 months Varies

Seek opportunities for practical experience early to align with coursework.

5

Pass the Certification Exam

After completing the coursework and any practical requirements, pass the certification exam. The exam tests knowledge and skills in medication therapy management.

1-3 weeks $300 - $400

Take practice exams and review areas of weakness.

6

Apply for Certification

Submit an application for certification to the accrediting body. Include proof of education, experience, and exam results.

1-2 weeks $100 - $200

Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete before submission.

7

Maintain Certification

MTM certifications require periodic renewal, typically every few years, which may involve continuing education and re-examination.

Every 2-3 years $100 - $300

Plan for continuing education courses throughout the certification period to avoid lapses.

Cost Breakdown

The total costs for obtaining a Medication Therapy Management Certificate can vary based on the provider and location, typically ranging from $500 to $2,500. Key factors influencing cost include the choice of training program and geographic area. Financial aid options and employer sponsorships may be available to offset these costs.

Training Program$300$2,000
Exam Fee$200
Application Fee$50
Background Check$100
Total Estimated Cost$650$2,350

💰 Financial Aid Available

Some employers offer sponsorship for MTM certification as part of professional development programs. Eligibility and availability depend on the employer's policies and the employee's role within the organization.

Salary & Career Outlook

Entry Level

$31,000

Median Salary

$37,370

Experienced

$45,000

Job Outlook: 2.5%

The modest growth in the field of Medication Therapy Management can be attributed to an aging population requiring more medication management services and the ongoing shift towards personalized medicine. However, technological advancements such as telemedicine and automated dispensing systems may limit more significant growth.

HospitalsCommunity Pharmacies

Exam Information

The Medication Therapy Management Certificate exam assesses the competency of pharmacy professionals in providing medication therapy management services. The exam consists of a written test focusing on clinical knowledge and practical skills. Candidates should prepare by reviewing clinical guidelines, pharmacotherapy, and patient communication strategies.

Medication Therapy Management Certification Exam

Administered by Board of Pharmacy Specialties • Fee: $350

Written test
120 questions3 hoursPassing: 75%
Retake policy: Candidates may retake the exam up to three times in a year, with a mandatory waiting period of 90 days between attempts.

Industry Insights

Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET

Modest Growth Ahead for Medication Therapy Management, with a 2.5% Increase by 2034

Current Employment

5,200

Projected

5,300

Growth Rate

+2.5%

New Positions

100

What's Driving Demand

The growth in the MTM field is driven primarily by the increasing needs of an aging population and changes in healthcare policies that expand patient access to medication management services.

Aging populationHealthcare policy changesTechnological advancements

The Medication Therapy Management (MTM) profession is projected to see a modest growth of 2.5% from 2024 to 2034, increasing from 5,200 to 5,300 employed professionals. This slight growth suggests stability rather than expansion, with a median annual wage of $37,370 indicating a middle-range earning potential within the healthcare sector. As AI continues to evolve, MTM professionals will likely experience a shift in their role, with automation handling routine data processing and initial patient inquiries, thus freeing up time for more complex and personalized patient care. Demographic shifts, particularly the aging population, and evolving healthcare policies such as Medicaid expansions are expected to maintain a steady demand for MTM services. For those considering entering this field, embracing AI tools and understanding demographic trends will be crucial to leveraging opportunities within the industry.

Long-Term Outlook

AI & Automation

medium disruption risk

AI's integration into MTM poses a medium risk to routine tasks but offers significant opportunities for those who adapt. Tools like predictive analytics can enhance patient care, making early adopters more competitive.

Changes are already being observed and will continue to evolve over the next decade.

Demographics

The aging population remains a consistent driver for MTM services, as older adults typically require more complex medication regimens.

Key factor: Aging population

Policy & Regulation

Ongoing reforms in healthcare policies, especially regarding Medicare and Medicaid, could increase the scope and demand for MTM services.

Medicare/Medicaid expansionsState-level licensing reforms

Industry Shifts

The MTM sector is witnessing a shift towards more integrated care models and telehealth, which broadens the reach of services.

TelehealthIntegrated care collaborations

Top Skills

Service Orientation

69/100

Social Perceptiveness

66/100

Speaking

66/100

Bottom Line

The MTM credential is becoming increasingly valuable with the integration of AI, making it a wise choice for those who are tech-savvy and looking to enter a stable healthcare field.

State-by-State Variations

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Certificate requirements vary significantly across states in the United States. These variances can include differences in training prerequisites, continuing education requirements, and specific state regulations.

Most Accessible

Reciprocity: Reciprocity for MTM certificates between states is not automatic. Pharmacists often must meet the specific requirements of the state to which they are moving, which may include additional training or examination.

Renewal Requirements

Medication Therapy Management Certificate holders must renew their certification periodically to ensure they remain knowledgeable about current practices and regulations. Renewal typically involves continuing education and a fee, emphasizing the professional's commitment to up-to-date, effective patient care.

Renewal Period

every 2 years

Renewal Cost

$150

CE Hours

15 hours

CE Topics: Patient-Centered Care, Drug Interactions and Management

Late renewal may incur additional fees and require extra continuing education credits.

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