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Pharmacy Courses in O’Connor

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Pharmacy courses in O’Connor

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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

Welcome to the comprehensive list of Pharmacy courses in O’Connor, where aspiring pharmacists and pharmacy assistants can kickstart their careers or enhance their existing skills. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to build on your expertise, O’Connor has a range of Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Higher Education courses tailored to your needs. With a total of 11 courses available, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your learning journey.

If you’re a beginner with little or no previous experience, consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These essential courses are designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills, setting you up for success in the community pharmacy environment. Many local training providers, such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, offer these courses, making it convenient for you to learn in-person in O’Connor.

For those with prior experience or qualifications, O’Connor has an impressive selection of advanced Pharmacy courses. Courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are perfect for those seeking to deepen their expertise. Additional advanced qualifications such as the Master of Pharmacy and the Bachelor of Pharmacy are also available through the University of Canberra and the ANU.

In O’Connor, you can also explore specialised fields within pharmacy, such as optical dispensing. The Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing HLT47815 offered by the ACOD is an excellent choice for those interested in integrating optical health into their pharmacy practice. This course equips learners with the diverse skills necessary for a dynamic and rewarding career.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to advance your pharmacy career in O’Connor. With flexible learning options and a variety of courses available, it’s time to take the next step toward your professional goals. To see the full range of Pharmacy courses in O’Connor and connect with local training providers, visit Courses.com.au today.