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Pharmacy Courses in Bedford

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Pharmacy courses in Bedford

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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

For those interested in pursuing a career in the pharmacy sector, Bedford offers a variety of courses designed for both beginners and experienced professionals. With a focus on vocational education and training, courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 cater to learners who are just starting out. These foundational courses provide essential skills and knowledge that will prepare students for roles in community pharmacy. The training can be completed locally through providers like The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Gateway Training Academy.

In addition to beginner courses, Bedford also hosts advanced qualifications to help those with prior knowledge progress in their careers. For example, the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT are just a few options designed for experienced learners. These courses are vital in advancing clinical skills and pharmacy practice, with local training providers such as North Metropolitan TAFE and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia facilitating these studies.

Students looking to specialise further can explore options such as the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815 and higher education qualifications like the Master of Pharmacy. These programs are essential for those aiming to excel in various pharmacy branches and ensure they remain at the forefront of the industry. Local institutions, including The University of Western Australia, offer these programs, making it convenient for Bedford residents to pursue their studies without relocating.

With a total of 14 pharmacy courses available in Bedford, aspiring pharmacists have numerous options to choose from. The courses span both Vocational Education and Training (VET) and higher education, granting flexibility to students seeking to enter or advance within the pharmacy profession. For those interested in the full range of available courses, more information can be found on the Pharmacy Courses in Bedford page. By selecting the right course and training provider, students can embark on a fulfilling pharmacy career right here in Bedford, 6052 Australia.