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Pharmacy Courses in McDowall

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Pharmacy courses in McDowall

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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

Are you considering a career in pharmacy? McDowall, located in the vibrant area of 4053 Australia, offers a wide array of pharmacy courses to suit various levels of expertise. Whether you are just starting out or looking to enhance your qualifications, there are 22 pharmacy courses available in this locality. For beginners, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, Certificate III in Community Pharmacy, and Certificate III in Retail are excellent starting points, providing foundational skills for those new to the industry.

For experienced individuals looking to further their careers in pharmacy, McDowall has plenty to offer. You will find advanced courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary, Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice, and a range of degrees including the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and Master of Pharmacy. These qualifications will not only enhance your skill set but also open doors for various job roles in the field.

Several reputable training providers are situated in and near McDowall, offering face-to-face learning opportunities that can enrich your educational experience. Consider enrolling with The Pharmacy Guild of Australia for the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, or Griffith University for a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours). Other notable providers include ACU, which offers the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, and UniSC.

With so many options available, pursuing a career in pharmacy within the McDowall area can be an enriching path filled with opportunities. Begin your journey today by exploring the beginner courses or advanced programmes that best suit your needs. Every step you take can lead to rewarding roles such as a pharmacist, pharmaceutical salesperson, or pharmacy technician. For detailed information on the available courses and training providers, visit the Pharmacy Courses in McDowall page on Courses.com.au and take the first step towards your pharmacy career.