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Pharmacy Courses in Fitzroy North

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Pharmacy courses in Fitzroy 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 range of Pharmacy courses in Fitzroy North designed to help you embark on a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical field. With 18 different courses available, students can find offerings that meet their educational needs, from face-to-face classes to online learning options. Local training providers, such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Monash University, provide industry-recognised qualifications including the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy and the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), ensuring you receive quality education in a supportive environment.

In Fitzroy North, aspiring health professionals have the opportunity to specialise in various areas, including Healthcare Support Services and First Aid. If you're interested in complementary fields, consider studying Alternative Health and Holistic Medicine or Allied Health. Reputable local institutions like Swinburne University of Technology and RMIT University offer comprehensive courses that cater to diverse interests within the pharmacy sector, providing students with essential knowledge and skills for their future careers.

The vibrant Fitzroy North community is home to numerous opportunities that can lead you to a successful career in pharmacy and related fields. Join forward-thinking institutions like Deakin University and Victoria University, which offer advanced degrees and specialisations. Whatever your goals in the pharmacy sector—whether it's gaining practical skills through a Diploma of Clinical Aromatherapy from MCOHB or pursuing innovative studies in Medical Technician roles—Fitzroy North has the right course for you! Start your journey today by browsing our selection of courses and finding the ideal training provider that suits your ambitions.