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Pharmacy Courses in Dandenong

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Pharmacy courses in Dandenong

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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 embark on a rewarding career in pharmacy, Dandenong offers a variety of courses tailored to both beginners and experienced learners. With a total of 18 pharmacy courses available, individuals can find programmes that suit their specific career aspirations and existing qualifications. These training options are provided by recognised training organisations and ensure that you acquire the necessary skills to thrive in the pharmacy sector.

For those at the beginning of their pharmacy journey, there are excellent introductory courses available, such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These foundational courses provide essential training for those looking to start a career in community pharmacy. Additionally, the Certificate III in Retail SIR30216 prepares individuals for roles that encompass various aspects of retail pharmacy.

Experienced learners seeking advanced knowledge can explore a range of higher-level courses. The Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815 are ideal for those wishing to further their pharmacy skills. In addition, the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT offers advanced training for leadership roles within the pharmacy profession.

Dandenong residents can also pursue various higher education options, such as the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and Master of Biotechnology, equipping graduates for diverse roles in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Other options include degrees like the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and the Bachelor of Biomedicine, which provide a solid foundation for those interested in scientific research or laboratory environments.

With the vibrant community of Dandenong and its commitment to educational excellence, now is the perfect time to explore pharmacy courses. Whether you are seeking to enhance your skills or start anew, the available training programmes can set you on the path to success in the pharmacy field. For more information on all available courses, visit the Pharmacy Courses in Dandenong page, and take a step towards your future in pharmacy.