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Pharmacy Courses in Penrith

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Pharmacy courses in Penrith

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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 vibrant community of Penrith, where aspiring pharmacy professionals can kick-start their careers with a wide variety of Pharmacy courses. Whether you are looking to begin your journey in the pharmacy field or you're an experienced professional seeking to enhance your qualifications, Penrith offers numerous options tailored to your needs. With 21 diverse courses available, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your educational goals. For beginners, the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy are excellent starting points.

The advanced learners can also benefit from a selection of robust pharmacy programmes designed to propel their careers forward. Courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are just a few of the many options worth exploring. Additionally, Penrith is close to various healthcare facilities, providing practical opportunities and real-world experience alongside your formal education.

Pharmacy is just one of the many health-related fields available for study in Penrith. You may also find interest in areas such as Nursing, Podiatry, and Dentistry. All of these fields play crucial roles in the wellbeing of the local community. With the right training, you can contribute significantly to the health sector and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

As you contemplate your options, rest assured that taking a course in pharmacy or a related area can be a fruitful investment in your future. With both beginner and advanced courses available, there’s no better time to get started than now. Embrace the opportunity to further your education and enhance your career in this dynamic field. Your path to becoming a skilled pharmacy professional starts here in beautiful Penrith!