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Pharmacy Courses in Girrawheen

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Pharmacy courses in Girrawheen

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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

Looking to advance your career in the pharmacy field? Girrawheen, located in the vibrant region of Western Australia, offers a selection of specialised pharmacy courses to cater to both beginners and experienced learners. With a variety of options available, you can find the right training to meet your professional goals right here in the heart of Girrawheen.

For those just starting out, there are beginner courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These programs are expertly delivered by local providers, including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and GTA, ensuring high standards of education and hands-on training essential for entering the pharmacy workforce.

For those with prior experience seeking to further their qualifications, advanced courses are also available. You can explore options such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Master of Pharmacy. Local institutions like ECU and UWA are recognised for their industry-relevant courses and can help you obtain the skills needed for advanced roles in healthcare.

With 14 pharmacy courses available, including vocational education and higher education options, students in Girrawheen can find a range of pathways tailored to different career aspirations. Courses such as the Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice can pave the way for a successful career in pharmacy, research, or academia.

Studying in Girrawheen offers the combined benefit of high-quality education and the local community atmosphere that makes learning enjoyable and engaging. Whether you choose to study at NMTAFE for practical training or pursue an advanced degree at recognised universities, the options are abundant. Start your journey now by exploring the available pharmacy courses in Girrawheen at Courses.com.au.