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Pharmacy Courses in Middle Ridge

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Pharmacy courses in Middle Ridge

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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

Are you considering a rewarding career in the pharmacy sector? Middle Ridge offers a variety of Pharmacy courses to help you step into this dynamic field. With 7 different options available, you can find the right course tailored to your interests and career ambitions. Local training providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, ACOD, and MIA are dedicated to providing high-quality education that prepares you for the job market.

Whether it's through engaging face-to-face sessions or flexible learning environments, the local providers ensure you receive hands-on experience that can be invaluable in real-world situations. If you're aspiring to work as a paramedic or in occupational therapy, the skills you gain from pharmacy courses will complement your approach to healthcare. Likewise, those interested in medical administration or supporting roles in the field of audiology will find these pharmacy qualifications highly beneficial.

Middle Ridge is perfectly positioned to help you grow professionally. The area boasts numerous opportunities for practical application of what you learn, be it in psychology, nursing, or even specialised practices like oncology. With courses available through reputable institutions, you’ll be in good hands learning from industry experts. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia is another prominent provider for those wanting to thrive in this competitive industry.

Getting started in pharmacy has never been easier with so many options available right at your doorstep in Middle Ridge. Why not explore medicine, train as a medical technician, or take a course in first aid to enhance your skillset? As you embark on this journey, remember that studying pharmacy not only equips you with knowledge but opens doors to various roles within the health sector, including podiatry and much more.