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Pharmacy Courses in Salisbury Downs

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Pharmacy courses in Salisbury Downs

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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

Pharmacy courses in Salisbury Downs offer an excellent opportunity for both beginners and experienced learners to enter and advance in the healthcare sector. With a total of 18 courses available, individuals can choose from a wide range of options tailored to their skill levels. For those just starting their journey in pharmacy, popular beginner courses include the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116. These foundational programs provide essential skills and knowledge in pharmacy practice, setting the stage for a successful career.

For more advanced learners, there are 12 courses that cater to individuals with prior experience or qualifications in the pharmacy field. Courses such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 and the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) offer deeper insights into pharmaceutical sciences and patient care. These advanced qualifications are designed to equip students with a strong understanding of industry standards and practices, further enhancing their employability in roles such as community pharmacy, hospital settings, or pharmaceutical research.

Several reputable training providers operate in and around Salisbury Downs, ensuring accessible face-to-face learning for aspiring pharmacy professionals. Institutions such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, TIME Education and Training, and ARC Training offer specialised programs to support students in their educational pursuits. Furthermore, esteemed universities like UniSA and Flinders University provide higher education courses, empowering students to achieve degrees that are recognised across the industry.

The array of pharmacy courses in Salisbury Downs not only prepares learners for immediate employment but also lays a strong foundation for lifelong career growth in the healthcare sector. With courses like the Infection Control Skill Set (Retail) and Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice, students can advance their knowledge and specialisation, making them highly valuable in various pharmacy roles. Explore the complete range of pharmacy courses available in Salisbury Downs by visiting Courses.com.au today.