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Pharmacy Courses in Giralang

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Pharmacy courses in Giralang

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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

Located in the heart of Giralang, 2617 Australia, aspiring pharmacists and pharmacy assistants can find a range of Pharmacy courses tailored to both beginners and experienced professionals. With a total of 11 courses available, individuals looking to enter the pharmacy field or enhance their qualifications will benefit from studying in close proximity to prominent training providers. For those starting out, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy (SIR20116) and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy (SIR30116) are excellent options to kickstart your pharmacy career.

For experienced individuals wishing to advance their pharmacy knowledge, Giralang offers a variety of advanced courses. Those looking to further specialise can pursue the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary (SIR40216) or the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing (HLT47815). Additionally, the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice (10737NAT) is highly regarded for pharmacists aiming to elevate their practice to a higher standard.

The training providers in Giralang cater extensively to local students, enhancing the learning experience with face-to-face interactions. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia offers the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, while the ACOD teaches the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing. Furthermore, the prestigious Pharmaceutical Society of Australia provides the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice.

For those wishing to pursue higher education in pharmacy-related fields, Giralang's educational landscape includes institutions like the Australian National University (ANU), which offers the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and the University of Canberra (UC) with its range of pharmacy-focused courses. These higher education options are designed for individuals seeking to build a solid foundation in pharmacy or biotechnology, catering to a growing demand for skilled professionals in the field.

With a vibrant educational community and numerous course offerings, Giralang stands as a prime location for those interested in pharmacy studies. Potential students can explore all available courses at Courses.com.au to find the right fit for their professional aspirations. Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to advance your career, Giralang offers the resources and support needed to succeed in the pharmacy industry.