Pharmacy courses in Downer
Course providers in Downer
The following providers offer Pharmacy courses in Downer.
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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?
- Retail and customer service skills
- Attention to detail
- Empathy and discretion
- Cert III in Community Pharmacy
- Cert IV in Community Pharmacy
- Cert IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary Experience and training can also lead to leadership or specialised roles.
How can I advance my pharmacy career?
Gain additional qualifications, such as the:
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Further reading
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- SIR30116 Certificate III in Community Pharmacy
- SIR40216 Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary
- HLTSS00064 Infection Control Skill Set
- SIRSS00030 Introduction to Community Pharmacy Skill Set
- Graduate Certificate in Pharmacy Practice
- Bachelor of Science (Microbiology and Immunology)
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity)
- SIRCIND002 Support the Supply of Pharmacy Medicines and Pharmacist Only Medicines
- 11030NAT Course in Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation)
- Master of Clinical Pharmacy
- Master of Pharmacy
- HLT37115 Certificate III in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
- Master of Biotechnology
- SIR20116 Certificate II in Community Pharmacy
More about Pharmacy courses
Located in the vibrant suburb of Downer, 2602 Australia, aspiring pharmacy professionals can choose from a comprehensive selection of Pharmacy Courses offered by reputable training providers. With both beginner and advanced level courses available, students can find the perfect fit for their experience and career aspirations. Whether you are new to the field or looking to enhance your skills, you have options such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116 to kickstart your career journey in the pharmacy sector.
For those with prior experience or existing qualifications, advanced courses cater to various specialisations within pharmacy. Explore the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216, or consider the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815. Additionally, elite academic options such as the Master of Pharmacy and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are available through institutions like the University of Canberra and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
For students who prefer a face-to-face learning experience, there are several physical training providers located in or near Downer. Notable institutions, such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, and ACOD, offer on-campus courses that promote interactive learning and direct industry exposure. The local presence of these established training providers ensures that students can access high-quality education right in their community.
As pharmacy plays a critical role in health care, exploring associated fields can further enhance your career opportunities. Individuals interested in branching out may want to consider the Nutrition and Dietetics, or Nursing fields. For those intrigued by drug testing and medical support, courses in Drug and Alcohol Testing and Healthcare Support Services might be beneficial choices.
Overall, Downer serves as an excellent hub for aspiring pharmacy professionals with a variety of courses designed to meet diverse educational needs. With skilled training organisations in the vicinity and a wide array of courses ranging from introductory to advanced levels, students have ample opportunity to develop into skilled pharmacy practitioners and enhance their careers in health care. Discover the available courses today and take your first step toward a rewarding career in pharmacy!