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Pharmacy Courses in Macquarie Park

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Pharmacy courses in Macquarie Park

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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 those considering a career in the pharmacy sector, Macquarie Park serves as an excellent location to pursue relevant courses and training. With a diverse range of offerings, you can kick-start your journey into the pharmacy field with beginner courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These courses equip learners with essential skills and knowledge, paving the way for roles such as pharmacy assistants or community pharmacy technicians in Macquarie Park and surrounding areas.

For experienced individuals looking to advance their careers, there is a wealth of advanced training available. Options include the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the prestigious Master of Pharmacy. These qualifications open doors to higher-level positions such as licensed pharmacists or pharmacy managers, enhancing your expertise and career prospects in a vibrant local healthcare environment.

Macquarie Park's strategic location also makes it an ideal place to explore additional study areas relevant to pharmacy, including Physiotherapy, Oncology, and Naturopathy. This interconnectedness means pharmacy professionals can expand their knowledge and skills through multidisciplinary courses, ultimately enhancing their employability in an evolving healthcare landscape.

With 21 courses available in Macquarie Park, there is bound to be a perfect fit for everyone, whether you are just starting or looking to hone your existing skills. Investing in your education and training can lead to fulfilling roles in the pharmacy sector and beyond. For more information about available courses, visit the Pharmacy Courses in Macquarie Park page to take the first step towards your exciting career in healthcare.