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Pharmacy Courses in Eastern Heights

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Pharmacy courses in Eastern Heights

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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

If you're considering a career in the pharmacy field, Eastern Heights offers a variety of courses to help you get started or advance your knowledge. With 23 Pharmacy courses available in the area, you're sure to find the right fit for your skills and ambitions. For those new to the industry, popular beginner options include the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. Both courses provide essential foundational knowledge for aspiring pharmacy professionals.

For individuals with prior experience or qualifications, Eastern Heights boasts several advanced courses to further enhance your expertise. Notable options include the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT. These programmes equip you with valuable skills necessary for roles such as a Medical Technician or Optician, enabling you to take on more responsibility within the healthcare system.

Several reputable training providers are located in or near Eastern Heights, making it easy for students to access face-to-face learning opportunities. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, along with the ACOD and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, offer comprehensive Pharmacy courses in welcoming environments. Additionally, well-known institutions like QUT and Griffith University provide advanced education for students seeking higher qualifications.

The courses available not only prepare you for various job roles within the pharmacy domain but also allow you to explore specialised areas of study. Interested students can delve into fields such as Aromatherapy, Oncology, or Medical Administration. These specialisations open up multiple career pathways and help you stay abreast of the latest industry trends and technological advancements in healthcare.

Eastern Heights provides a vibrant learning community for students eager to pursue a career in pharmacy. With a diverse range of courses and talented training providers, you’ll have the tools you need to succeed. Whether you are starting fresh or looking to enhance your qualifications, explore the options available on Courses.com.au and take the first step towards your rewarding career in pharmacy.