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Pharmacy Courses in Forrestfield

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Pharmacy courses in Forrestfield

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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 kick-start your career in the pharmacy field, you’ll find a diverse range of Pharmacy courses in Forrestfield tailored to meet your needs. With an impressive selection of 14 courses available, learners in the Forrestfield area have the opportunity to pursue both beginner-level courses, such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy (SIR20116) and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (SIR30116), as well as advanced qualifications that can enhance your career prospects.

Beginner courses are perfect for individuals with no prior experience or qualifications. Enrolling in the Certificate III in Hospital or Health Services Pharmacy Support (HLT37121) or the Certificate III in Retail (SIR30216) can open doors to various entry-level roles in pharmacy practice. Training providers like The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Cartec Training offer these courses in convenient campus-based settings right in the heart of Forrestfield.

For those with prior experience or education looking to advance in the pharmacy industry, the Forrestfield area has numerous options as well. Consider enrolling in the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary (SIR40216) or the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice (10737NAT). These advanced courses can take your career to the next level, preparing you for roles such as pharmacy technician or pharmacy manager, supported by well-respected organisations like Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and Curtin University.

With a strong focus on vocational education, the pharmacy courses available encompass a variety of study areas, ensuring that students can specialise further in their fields of interest. For instance, those interested in medicine can explore courses like Medicine or delve into Audiology for niche roles in healthcare. Forrestfield’s local training providers are equipped to support your learning journey, providing face-to-face training and accessible facilities.

Studying pharmacy courses in Forrestfield not only provides you with the necessary educational foundation but also connects you with industry professionals and networking opportunities. By pursuing a pharmacy qualification, you can position yourself for a rewarding career in health and pharmaceutical services. Take the next step today and explore the exciting Pharmacy courses in Forrestfield! Your future in the pharmacy industry awaits.