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Pharmacy Courses in Cairns City

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Pharmacy courses in Cairns City

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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 considering a career in pharmacy, Cairns City is an excellent place to start your journey. With a bustling healthcare sector, studying pharmacy in this tropical paradise not only opens up diverse job opportunities but also allows you to enjoy the picturesque beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the surrounding rainforests. The pharmacy landscape in Cairns offers many career paths, including roles such as pharmacist, pharmacy assistant, and pharmaceutical sales representative, all of which are vital in supporting the health and wellbeing of the community.

There are currently three Pharmacy courses available in the Cairns City area, each delivered by recognised training providers that assure quality education. Among them, the James Cook University (JCU) stands out as a premier choice for students seeking a hands-on learning experience. With their campus located in Cairns, JCU offers tailored courses designed to equip students with the essential skills for successful careers in the pharmacy sector. Whether you wish to become a pharmacist or embark on related roles, their programmes are aimed at fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Studying pharmacy at an institution close to home not only enhances your learning experience but also connects you with local professionals and job opportunities. In Cairns, the demand for skilled pharmacy practitioners is consistently on the rise, making it an opportune time to enrol in courses that lead to fulfilling careers. Pharmacy graduates are often sought after in various settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and health clinics, ensuring that your qualifications lead to rewarding positions in the healthcare industry.

As you explore your options for pharmacy training in Cairns, remember to assess the unique offerings of each course and consider how they align with your career aspirations. With the right qualifications and support from outstanding training providers like JCU, you can embark on a successful career path tailored to your ambitions. For more information and to discover the available courses in your area, visit this page and take the first step towards your future today.