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Pharmacy Courses in Eight Mile Plains

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Pharmacy courses in Eight Mile Plains

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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 located in Eight Mile Plains, 4113 Australia, and are considering a career in the pharmacy field, Courses.com.au offers an exceptional selection of pharmacy courses to suit your needs. With a total of 23 courses available, aspiring students can choose from beginner programs such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, to more advanced options like the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice.

For those eager to enter the pharmacy profession without prior experience, the beginner courses will lay a solid foundation. The local training providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Griffith University offer specialised training that prepares you for various roles in this rewarding sector. Graduates can expect to pursue job roles like pharmacy assistant, retail pharmacist, or even optical dispenser, with pathways opening up to advanced certifications and higher education options.

For experienced learners, Courses.com.au features advanced courses including the Master of Pharmacy and the Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy HLT52315. These programs are designed to elevate your expertise and position you for senior roles within the pharmacy environment. Training providers such as QUT and UniSC support these advanced learning opportunities, helping you excel in specialisations like Pharmacology and Biotechnology.

As you explore your options within the pharmacy sector in Eight Mile Plains, you may also find interest in related fields such as Physiotherapy, Dentistry, and Allied Health. The variety of pathways available at your fingertips ensures a bright future in the health sector. Dive into the world of pharmacy by visiting Courses.com.au today and discover the right course for you!