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Pharmacy Courses in Palm Cove

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Pharmacy courses in Palm Cove

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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 are looking to advance your career in the field of pharmacy, Palm Cove offers a variety of reputable Pharmacy courses. Nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Northern Queensland, Palm Cove presents a unique opportunity for students to study in a serene environment while pursuing their educational goals. The region boasts three available pharmacological courses, tailored for experienced learners with prior qualifications or experience. This is an excellent chance to further your expertise in the pharmacy sector.

Among the advanced courses available, the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) stands out, equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in a competitive job market. Additionally, the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical Engineering provide further avenues for specialisation, ideal for those aiming to integrate their pharmacy practice with scientific applications.

Palm Cove is home to esteemed training providers like JCU, which offers a variety of campus-based programmes. This is particularly beneficial for students who prefer in-person interaction and hands-on learning experiences. Studying locally at JCU not only allows for easier networking within the community but also provides a supportive learning environment surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Palm Cove.

In addition to pharmacy-specific education, those interested can explore various related fields such as Nursing, Healthcare Support Services, and Medical Technician. Expanding your skills across these domains can significantly enhance your career prospects within the healthcare industry, making your education even more comprehensive.

With courses designed for seasoned learners, Palm Cove's educational offerings are perfect for those aiming to specialise in areas like Cosmetic Surgery, Oncology, and Nutrition and Dietetics. The diverse range of courses ensures that you can tailor your studies according to your career aspirations. If you are ready to take the next step in your pharmacy career, explore the available courses in Palm Cove today at Courses.com.au.