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Pharmacy Courses in Berala

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Pharmacy courses in Berala

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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 considering a career in the pharmacy field, Berala offers a variety of high-quality pharmacy courses that can suit your educational needs. With a total of 21 courses available, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, aspiring pharmacy professionals have ample opportunities to enter and excel in this rewarding sector. The courses cater to those who seek vocational training, higher education, or short courses, and provide the foundation for various roles in the pharmacy industry.

For beginners with no prior experience or qualifications, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 are excellent starting points. These certifications equip students with the essential skills required for entry-level job roles like pharmacy assistants and dispensary assistants. If you are looking to enhance your qualifications further, consider the Infection Control Skill Set (Retail) HLTSS00065, which adds valuable competency in infection control specific to the retail environment.

For those with prior experience or qualifications, Berala offers advanced courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Master of Pharmacy. These programmes are designed for individuals aiming to advance their careers into specialised roles such as pharmacists or pharmacy managers. Other notable options include postgraduate degrees like the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice and Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), which delve deeper into the scientific underpinnings of pharmacy.

The Berala region is a vibrant area, and pursuing pharmacy courses here means you’ll be well-prepared to contribute to the local healthcare sector. By gaining recognised qualifications in pharmacy, graduates can expect to find rewarding roles in not only community pharmacies but also in specialised practices such as oncology and drug and alcohol testing. Exploring other related sectors like nutrition and dietetics or physiotherapy may also complement your career path, showcasing the interconnected nature of healthcare professions.

With a range of pharmacy courses to choose from, your journey into the pharmaceutical realm begins right here in Berala. Browse our available options and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with the assistance of our comprehensive listings. For a complete overview of pharmacy courses in Berala, visit Courses.com.au and discover how you can transform your passion for healthcare into a profession.