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Pharmacy Courses in Oakleigh

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Pharmacy courses in Oakleigh

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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

Welcome to the comprehensive selection of Pharmacy courses available in Oakleigh, 3166 Australia. Whether you are just starting your career in pharmacy or looking to advance your existing skills, there are 18 courses offered that cater to varying experience levels. For beginners with no prior experience, consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116, Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, or the Certificate III in Retail SIR30216. These foundational courses will provide you with a solid grounding in pharmacy practices.

If you’re an experienced learner seeking advanced qualifications, Oakleigh offers a variety of courses that can elevate your knowledge and career prospects. Some of the most sought-after advanced courses include the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216, the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT, and the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours). These programmes are designed to prepare you for various roles within the pharmacy sector, from advanced dispensary duties to management and clinical expert positions.

In addition to a vast array of courses, learners in Oakleigh benefit from the presence of numerous reputable training providers. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia offer hands-on training that can help facilitate a successful career in pharmacy. Furthermore, esteemed institutions such as Monash University, RMIT University, and Federation University provide higher education pathways that lead to specialised fields within pharmacy, including optician roles and psychology disciplines.

By pursuing pharmacy qualifications in Oakleigh, you are positioning yourself for a rewarding career within a vital industry. The courses available not only cover essential skills but also offer significant career opportunities, allowing you to explore roles in sectors such as drug and alcohol testing and ambulance and paramedic services. Explore the array of options available and take the first step towards becoming a qualified pharmacy professional; find out more about these exciting opportunities at Courses.com.au.