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Pharmacy Courses in Ashgrove

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Pharmacy courses in Ashgrove

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Common questions

Often known as a ‘chemist’, a community pharmacy provides medication, healthcare advice, and retail products to customers. It’s a key component of the pharmacy industry which also comprises hospital pharmacy and industrial pharmacy.

What is the outlook for the community pharmacy sector?

With an aging population and an increase in chronic diseases, community pharmacies provide an essential service for almost every town and city in Australia. As the first port of call for health concerns, there are 443.6 million individual patient visits to pharmacies each year, making it a key part of the healthcare sector.

What roles are available in community pharmacies?

There are a number of roles in community pharmacies, including:
  • Pharmacists
  • - Who dispense medications, advise customers, and ensure patient safety.
  • Pharmacy Technicians
  • - Who assists pharmacists with dispensing and customer service.
  • Pharmacy Assistants
  • - Who helps with customer service, sales, and some dispensing tasks.

What is the role of a pharmacy assistant?

Pharmacy assistants work in customer service, process sales, and may assist with dispensing medications under pharmacist supervision.

What qualifications are required for pharmacy assistants?

Under the Quality Care Pharmacy Program (QCPP) a minimum S2/S3 certification is required to handle over-the-counter and pharmacist-only medications.

What is the role of a pharmacy technician?

Pharmacy Technicians help pharmacists prepare and dispense medicines. In a community pharmacy, technicians are also often involved in customer service duties and provide medical advice to customers under the supervision of the pharmacist on duty.

How do I become a pharmacy technician?

To meet the requirements of the Pharmacy Board of Australia, a Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary or SIRSS00012 Community Pharmacy Dispensary qualification is recommended.

Why should I consider a career in pharmacy?

Pharmacy careers offer:
  • Flexible working hours.
  • A mix of healthcare and customer service.
  • Opportunities for career advancement.
  • A stable and growing job market.

How can I enter the pharmacy industry?

An S2/S3 certification is a great way to get your foot in the door of the pharmacy industry. Completed online in as little as two days, this qualification does not require you to currently work in a community pharmacy and equips you to supply pharmacy medications and assist the pharmacist in the dispensary with the supply of pharmacist only medications.

What career pathways are available in the pharmacy industry?

You can progress from a pharmacy assistant to a senior role, become a pharmacy manager, or pursue further education to become a pharmacist. Other opportunities include hospital and industrial pharmacy roles.

Are there job opportunities in community pharmacies?

Yes, community pharmacies exist in cities, towns, and rural areas, ensuring employment opportunities nationwide.There are currently 39,900 pharmacy assistants and 6900 pharmacy technician positions in Australia, and the sector is growing.That said, it is a sought after part of the retail sector, with qualifications such as the S2/S3 allowing you to stand out from the crowd.

What skills are important for working in a pharmacy?

Author Image Cassandra Charlesworth

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More about Pharmacy courses

For those looking to embark on a rewarding career in the pharmacy sector, Ashgrove offers a variety of courses tailored to suit both beginners and experienced learners. With a total of 22 pharmacy courses, prospective students can find options that align with their skills and aspirations. Whether you're keen to start your journey or advance your knowledge in this vital field, there's something for everyone in the Ashgrove, 4060 area.

Beginners aiming to break into the pharmacy industry can consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These certificates provide foundational skills and knowledge essential for roles in pharmacies or community health settings. Students can also explore the Certificate III in Retail SIR30216, which introduces valuable customer service and sales skills relevant across various pharmacy practices.

For those with prior experience, Ashgrove offers an array of advanced courses designed to elevate your professional capabilities. The Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815 are prime examples of qualifications that can enable pharmacists to take on greater responsibilities and enhance patient care. Graduate learners can also choose from various higher education pathways, such as the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT or pursue a Master of Pharmacy, which deepens one’s understanding of pharmaceutical sciences and practice.

The Ashgrove area supports a thriving pharmacy community, creating a robust job market for well-trained professionals. Graduates from these courses can find fulfilling roles, including community pharmacist, pharmacy technician, and optical dispenser. The comprehensive training provided through programs like the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) or the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Pharmacology ensures that students are equipped with the requisite knowledge to excel in these positions.

With the flexible options available for both novice and experienced learners, Ashgrove is an excellent choice for those wishing to pursue pharmacy qualifications. Explore the range of courses at Courses.com.au and discover how you can take the next step in your pharmacy career journey today. The path to becoming a skilled pharmacy professional starts right here in Ashgrove, where excellent educational resources await you.