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Pharmacy Courses in Croydon South

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Pharmacy courses in Croydon South

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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 looking to start their journey in the pharmacy industry in Croydon South, there are various Pharmacy Courses available that cater to beginners as well as experienced learners. With 18 diverse courses listed, aspiring pharmacy professionals can find the training that best suits their career goals. Consider beginning with the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the more advanced Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, both highly regarded qualifications in the field. Additionally, the Certificate III in Retail SIR30216 allows for further skill enhancement applicable to community pharmacy settings.

For those with prior qualifications looking to advance their skills, there are an impressive range of advanced courses available in Croydon South. The Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 is particularly beneficial for professionals seeking to manage dispensary duties effectively. Other notable qualifications include the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT, which are instrumental in elevating one's career in pharmacy practice.

Furthermore, for those interested in more specialised roles within the healthcare sector, Croydon South offers a variety of study areas such as Audiology, Naturopathy, and even Oncology. These specialisations can complement a pharmacy qualification and provide a comprehensive understanding of various health disciplines, allowing for a versatile career path. Additionally, entering fields such as Psychology or Allied Health can broaden professional networks and enhance job prospects.

Moreover, developing a strong foundation in pharmacy can also lead to roles in Cosmetic Surgery and Aromatherapy, reflecting the diverse options accessible through pharmacy training. In Croydon South, learners can easily find reputable training providers to guide their education in these dynamic fields. With numerous bachelor and master level courses, including the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and the Master of Biotechnology, there's a pathway for every aspiring professional.

Whether you are beginning your career or looking to advance within the pharmacy sector, exploring the range of Pharmacy Courses in Croydon South can set the groundwork for success. With dedicated support and a variety of course options, you can find the right fit that aligns with your career aspirations, ensuring you become a valuable asset to the healthcare community in Croydon South and beyond.