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Pharmacy Courses in Dandenong North

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Pharmacy courses in Dandenong North

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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

Explore a diverse range of pharmacy courses in Dandenong North that cater to both beginners and experienced professionals. If you're just starting your journey in the pharmacy field, consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These beginner courses are designed to equip you with essential skills needed in community pharmacy settings. For those with prior experience looking to advance their careers, options like the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT will enhance your qualifications and open new job opportunities.

Dandenong North offers a variety of job roles for pharmacy graduates, including pharmacy assistants, community pharmacists, and medical technicians. As you consider your future in this field, you will benefit from exploring not only pharmacy-specific training but also related disciplines such as Healthcare Support Services and Medicine. Educational pathways such as the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and Bachelor of Science (Pharmacology) are ideal for learners aiming for specialised roles in pharmacy and healthcare.

The pharmacy courses available in Dandenong North are recognised by industry bodies and provide a solid foundation for career advancement. Explore the Pathology and Nursing categories as they relate to the pharmacy field, offering additional insights and learning opportunities that will enhance your understanding of patient care. Whether you are pursuing a Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy or a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity), Dandenong North provides the perfect setting for your pharmacy education and professional growth.