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Pharmacy Courses in Point Cook

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Pharmacy courses in Point Cook

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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

Located in the vibrant suburb of Point Cook, Pharmacy Courses offer a variety of qualifications for aspiring pharmacy professionals. With a total of 18 diverse courses available, learners can select from beginner to advanced levels, depending on their experience and career goals. For those new to the pharmacy field, popular beginner courses include the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, providing foundational skills for a successful career in community pharmacy.

For experienced learners seeking to advance their careers, Point Cook offers various skilled courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice 10737NAT. These courses are designed to enhance your knowledge and expertise, preparing you for various roles within the pharmacy industry, including pharmacy dispensary and advanced clinical practice.

The available pharmacy courses in Point Cook are delivered by esteemed training providers with a strong presence in the area. Institutions such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and RMIT University offer comprehensive training that aligns with industry standards and best practices. Other providers like ACOD and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia also deliver specialised courses such as the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice, respectively.

In addition to pharmacy, there are several related health fields to explore within Point Cook, including Medical Administration, Nursing, and Physiotherapy. Students keen on expanding their skills in these areas can benefit from a holistic understanding of the interconnected nature of the healthcare sector. The variety of courses available ensures that there is something to suit every interest and aspiration.

With expanding opportunities in healthcare and pharmacy, the courses available in Point Cook are perfect for nurturing future talent. By choosing to undertake your training with leading providers in an area rich with educational resources, you are setting yourself up for success in your pharmacy career. Explore the detailed courses listed and take the first step towards a rewarding career in pharmacy today!