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Pharmacy Courses in Tingalpa

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Pharmacy courses in Tingalpa

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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're aspiring to start a career in the pharmacy field, Tingalpa offers an exciting variety of Pharmacy Courses perfect for beginners and experienced learners alike. With 23 courses available in the area, you can kickstart your journey in community pharmacy with initiatives like the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy (SIR20116) or advance your skills with choices such as the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (SIR30116). For those seeking retail proficiency, the Certificate III in Retail (SIR30216) is a great option. Each of these courses is supported by dedicated local training providers, ensuring that you receive the best education possible.

For learners with prior experience or qualifications, Tingalpa's pharmacy education programme provides numerous advanced courses to elevate your career. Notable options include the highly regarded Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary (SIR40216) and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice (10737NAT). Additionally, Griffith University offers the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), while local institutions like QUT and UQ provide specialised Bachelor courses in Chemistry and Pharmacology, respectively. These training providers bring their expertise to the heart of Tingalpa, making it easy for you to engage in face-to-face learning.

Exploring pharmacy-related career paths doesn't stop here. Tingalpa encompasses not only pharmacy but also studies in Healthcare Support Services, Ambulance and Paramedic, and even Nutrition and Dietetics, among others. The local providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the Griffith University offer top-tier training that can set you apart in this dynamic industry. With commitment and the right education, your future in pharmacy can be as bright as you make it!