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Pharmacy Courses in Gilston

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Pharmacy courses in Gilston

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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 considering a career in pharmacy and are located in Gilston, you're in luck. The region offers a comprehensive range of Pharmacy Courses designed to cater to both beginners and experienced practitioners. With 22 courses available, including Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, there’s ample opportunity for newcomers to enter the field and gain essential skills. For those who already possess relevant experience, advanced courses such as Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT are also available.

The local area of Gilston is served by several reputable training providers, including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, which offers the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy. Additionally, ACOD provides the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing, while MIA provides the Certificate III in Retail. These face-to-face training options enhance the learning experience and support your journey into various pharmacy-related job roles in the Gilston area.

Choosing to study in Gilston opens up pathways not only into pharmacy but also related fields such as Pathology, Aromatherapy, and Allied Health. The opportunity to explore diverse study areas can broaden your understanding and qualifications, allowing you to specialize in roles that align with your interests. For example, pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) or a Master of Pharmacy can prepare you for advanced positions within the healthcare sector.

The vibrant community in Gilston supports an active pursuit of education in pharmacy and health-related fields. With recognised and qualified training providers such as Griffith University and UQ, you can be assured that your education is in capable hands. Explore the myriad options available by visiting our Pharmacy Courses in Gilston page today to find the perfect course that fits your career aspirations and set the foundation for a successful future in the pharmacy industry.