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Pharmacy Courses in North Lakes

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Pharmacy courses in North Lakes

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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

North Lakes, a thriving suburb in Queensland, is an excellent location for those looking to embark on a career in the pharmacy field. With a variety of Pharmacy courses available, learners can choose from beginner options such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, both designed for those with no prior experience in the industry. Additionally, the Certificate III in Retail SIR30216 provides an essential foundation for aspiring pharmacy professionals.

For those with prior experience, a selection of advanced courses awaits in North Lakes. You can pursue the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 or the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815. There are also higher education options available, including the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and the Master of Pharmacy, tailored for those seeking greater proficiency in their careers.

Several reputable training providers are conveniently located in and around North Lakes, offering face-to-face learning opportunities. Notable institutions include the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the Griffith University, which provides the esteemed Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours). Other providers such as the ACOD and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia are also integral in delivering quality education within this field.

In North Lakes, pharmacy graduates can look forward to a variety of career paths, including roles such as community pharmacy assistants, optical dispensers, and pharmacists. With the right training and qualification, opportunities will arise in various sectors of the healthcare system. Pursuing a degree or certificate from accredited courses not only enriches your knowledge but also enhances your employability in a competitive job market.

For those considering a career in healthcare beyond pharmacy, various categories are available. Explore areas such as Nursing, Physiotherapy, and Occupational Therapy. Whatever your interest, the North Lakes region promises to deliver a wealth of educational opportunities paving the way for a successful career in the health and pharmacy sectors. Start your journey today by browsing the diverse range of Pharmacy courses in North Lakes.