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Pharmacy Courses in Carnegie

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Pharmacy courses in Carnegie

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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 looking to pursue a career in the pharmacy field in Carnegie, you’ll find a wide variety of Pharmacy courses designed to meet your educational goals. With 18 courses available, students have the opportunity to learn from esteemed The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, who offer the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, and prestigious institutions such as RMIT University, providing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours). For those interested in advanced studies, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia offers the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice. Other institutions, like Deakin University and MCOHB, also contribute to a rich learning environment by providing diverse courses related to healthcare.

In the Carnegie area, students can enhance their knowledge in various specialisations, preparing them for roles such as Nursing, Medical Technician, and First Aid. These specialised courses not only build foundational skills but also equip aspiring pharmacists with practical knowledge necessary for employment in modern healthcare settings. The combination of local training providers with a physical presence ensures students have ample support and access to face-to-face studies, fostering an engaging learning atmosphere.

Furthermore, Carnegie's location allows students to easily access local amenities while pursuing their studies in Pharmacy. As you consider your future in the healthcare industry, explore the full range of offerings in the Pharmacy field and the various interconnected areas such as Massage or Pathology. The local training providers are well-equipped to provide you with practical skills and knowledge to thrive in job roles including Drug and Alcohol Testing and Ambulance and Paramedic. Embark on your educational journey today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in pharmacy in Carnegie!