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Pharmacy Courses in Onkaparinga Hills

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Pharmacy courses in Onkaparinga Hills

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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

In the picturesque region of Onkaparinga Hills, aspiring pharmacy professionals can enhance their careers by enrolling in a selection of well-structured pharmacy courses offered by reputable training providers. With a total of 18 pharmacy courses available in the area, learners can choose from both beginner and advanced qualifications tailored to their individual experience levels. Those new to the field can start their journey with courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, which provide foundational skills essential for a successful career in community pharmacy.

For those already possessing experience or possessing prior qualifications, the advanced courses offer opportunities to broaden your expertise in pharmacy practice. Highly regarded programmes such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT are designed to elevate the knowledge and skills necessary for higher-level roles within the industry. Additionally, academic degrees, including the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) and the Bachelor of Biomedical Science, are available for those seeking to delve deeper into pharmacy and related fields.

In Onkaparinga Hills, learners will find an enriched learning environment where local training providers ensure that all courses meet industry standards, enhancing employability and professional growth. Beginner courses, such as the Support the Supply of Pharmacy Medicines and the Infection Control Skill Set (Retail), equip students with practical skills and knowledge to excel in the pharmacy sector. In contrast, experienced learners can explore advanced subjects like the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) or the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical Engineering, paving the way for multifaceted career opportunities.

The variety of pharmacy courses in Onkaparinga Hills not only caters to diverse learning needs but also provides a pathway to a fulfilling career within the healthcare sector. Whether you are beginning your pharmacy journey or looking to advance your professional qualifications, there is a course to match your aspirations. Visit the Pharmacy Courses in Onkaparinga Hills page to explore the full range of offerings and take the next step towards realising your career goals in pharmacy.