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Pharmacy Courses in Adelaide

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Pharmacy courses in Adelaide

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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

Are you considering a rewarding career in the pharmacy sector? Adelaide is home to a wide range of Pharmacy Courses, offering something for everyone, from beginners to advanced learners. With a total of 18 courses available, you'll find an array of training options that can lead you towards a fulfilling profession in this essential field of healthcare. Whether you are looking to pursue a Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, or even a Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice, there is a pathway for you.

For those just starting out, there are six beginner options available, including popular courses like the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy and Support the Supply of Pharmacy Medicines and Pharmacist Only Medicines. These qualifications are designed for those with no prior experience, providing essential knowledge and skills that pave the way to a successful career. Get started today and join the ranks of skilled pharmacy professionals!

If you have some existing experience or qualifications, you might explore the 12 advanced courses available in Adelaide. Options such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the esteemed Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) can help you deepen your expertise and advance your career. With job opportunities expanding in this vital industry, now is a great time to enhance your qualifications and expertise.

Students seeking face-to-face learning in Adelaide can benefit from several respected training providers. Institutions such as The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, UniSA, and Flinders University are some of the notable options available. These providers offer not just a recognised certification, but also robust support and networking opportunities that can significantly benefit your career in pharmacy.

As you explore the field of pharmacy, consider browsing through related areas such as Medicine, Physiotherapy, and First Aid. Each of these sectors is interconnected and can provide valuable insights and complementary skills beneficial to your pharmacy career. Embrace this opportunity to learn and grow, and remember, the journey in pharmacy is just beginning in beautiful Adelaide!