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Pharmacy Courses in Ngunnawal

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Pharmacy courses in Ngunnawal

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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

If you're considering a career in the pharmacy field, you're in the right place! Ngunnawal is home to a variety of pharmacy courses that cater to different interests and specialisations. With a total of 11 courses available, you can find the perfect fit for your career goals. Whether you aim to become a pharmacist, pharmacy technician, or explore other exciting roles within health care, Ngunnawal offers a range of options to kickstart your journey.

Local training providers such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia offer the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, perfect for those starting out. Additionally, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia provides advanced training with their Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice. If you're looking for higher education, the University of Canberra and the Australian National University both offer a Master of Pharmacy program, ensuring you have top-notch credentials in a thriving industry.

For those interested in specific study areas, Ngunnawal also offers opportunities to explore audiology, obstetrics and gynaecology, and allied health, among others. These fields intersect with pharmacy, providing an expansive view of health care which can greatly enhance your career scope. Engaging in these areas will equip you with a diverse skill set, preparing you for various roles such as an optician or a professional in occupational therapy.

Ngunnawal is a vibrant community that values health education, making it an ideal location for pursuing pharmacy courses. With multiple campus-based providers, you can enjoy the benefits of face-to-face learning while being surrounded by supportive peers and experienced professionals. If you're ready to embark on this enriching career path, explore the available pharmacy courses in Ngunnawal today and take the first step towards a rewarding future in health care!