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Pharmacy Courses in Kealba

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Pharmacy courses in Kealba

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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

For individuals interested in advancing their careers in the pharmacy sector, Pharmacy Courses in Kealba provide a diverse range of educational opportunities. Located in the vibrant suburb of Kealba, 3021 Australia, numerous Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and esteemed institutions are available, offering quality training that addresses real-world pharmaceutical applications. Initiatives offered by local training providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and RMIT University aim to equip students with the essential skills required for various roles in the pharmacy landscape.

Jumpstart your career by exploring programs in key study areas such as Pharmacy, Nursing, and Medical Administration. Enrolments in courses offered by local providers facilitate hands-on learning experiences coupled with practical knowledge in the pharmacy domain. For instance, Pharmaceutical Society of Australia provides a Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice that is valued within the healthcare community, while Monash University offers the Bachelor of Science with a focus on Pharmacology, preparing students for advanced roles in clinical settings.

Students who wish to delve deeper into specialised fields can also consider courses in Audiology or Aromatherapy. These specialisations provide enhanced knowledge that may be applied in various health-related roles, including those in Drug and Alcohol Testing. Training providers such as MCOHB and Spectra Training offer tailored courses ensuring you receive the most relevant education to meet industry demands.

Being part of the pharmacy sector in Kealba opens up multiple career pathways, spanning from pharmacy assistants to qualified pharmacists. With strong support from local institutions, students gain access to invaluable resources and connections within the healthcare community. Institutions like Deakin University and Swinburne University of Technology also contribute to a well-rounded educational experience designed to enhance employability in a competitive job market. Explore your options and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in pharmacy today!