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Pharmacy Courses in Alphington

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Pharmacy courses in Alphington

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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

Pharmacy courses in Alphington offer an excellent opportunity for those looking to begin or advance their careers in the healthcare sector. With a total of 18 courses available in this field, both beginner and advanced learners can find the right fit. For newcomers, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 are ideal starting points. These foundational courses equip students with essential skills and knowledge needed to work effectively in community pharmacy settings.

Experienced learners in the Alphington area will also find an array of advanced courses tailored to their qualifications and experience. Noteworthy options include the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice. These courses not only enhance professional capabilities but also open doors to various job roles in the pharmacy sector such as pharmacy manager and clinical pharmacist.

Alphington is located conveniently close to Melbourne's growing health sector, making it an ideal spot for pursuing pharmacy education. Courses from recognised Training Providers in the area ensure that learners receive qualifications that are respected and valued by employers. For those interested in diversifying their skills, the realm of health also includes related fields such as Nursing and Physiotherapy, both of which have their own sets of courses available in Alphington.

As students progress through their pharmacy education, they can explore specialised areas such as Nutrition and Dietetics or Pathology that complement their pharmacy expertise. With ongoing public interest in health and wellness, pharmacists with advanced training are increasingly sought after in various health-related roles across the community.

Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to upskill, Alphington offers a range of pharmacy courses that cater to every learner’s needs. Be sure to check out the complete list of options on the Pharmacy Courses in Alphington page and take the first step towards an enriching career in healthcare.