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Pharmacy Courses in Neutral Bay

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Pharmacy courses in Neutral Bay

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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

Discovering the right path in the pharmacy field has never been easier with the variety of Pharmacy courses in Neutral Bay. Located in the heart of the Lower North Shore, Neutral Bay boasts several reputable training providers keen to help you kickstart or advance your pharmaceutical career. Whether you’re a novice with an interest in community pharmacy or an experienced professional seeking to deepen your expertise, there is a course suited to your needs right here.

For beginners, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy (SIR20116) and Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (SIR30116) are excellent starting points that cover the foundational skills necessary for entry-level positions. The local training provider, Alpine Training, offers the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy, ensuring you receive quality education to help shape your career in this rewarding field.

As you progress, consider the advanced options available, such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary (SIR40216) and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice (10737NAT). These programs are designed for experienced learners and are delivered by esteemed providers such as the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, which has a strong presence in Neutral Bay.

Those looking to further their education can explore higher-level qualifications such as the Master of Pharmacy and various Bachelor of Science degrees, including Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), available through institutions like the Western Sydney University and the University of Technology Sydney. These programs offer deeper insights into the sciences connected to pharmacy and prepare you for leadership roles in the industry.

Regardless of where you are on your educational journey, Neutral Bay’s local offerings can empower you to achieve your career goals in pharmacy. With 21 pharmacy-related courses available, including both vocational education and higher education options, you can find precisely the right match for your aspirations. Explore the complete range of courses today and take the next step towards a fulfilling career in pharmacy.