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Pharmacy Courses in Sandringham

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Pharmacy courses in Sandringham

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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

Are you looking to kick-start your career in the pharmacy field? Sandringham, located in Melbourne's southeastern suburbs, offers a fantastic array of pharmacy courses designed for both beginners and experienced learners. With 18 courses available, you can find the path that best suits your aspirations. For those new to the industry, consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy. These courses provide a solid foundation for a future in pharmacy, equipping students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed in this vital sector.

If you already have some experience or qualifications, Sandringham also hosts a variety of advanced pharmacy courses that can help you further your career. Options such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are available. These courses are ideal for those aiming to refine their expertise and take on more significant roles within the pharmacy industry.

Choosing the right training provider is crucial for your academic journey, and Sandringham is home to several esteemed institutions. The Monash University offers programmes like the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours), while the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Pharmaceutical Society of Australia provide industry-focused training that prepares students for real-world challenges.

For those seeking flexible learning modalities, explore our Drug and Alcohol Testing, Nursing, and Nutrition and Dietetics courses, which are also offered in Sandringham. These adjacent fields can complement your pharmacy studies, making you a more versatile candidate in the healthcare sector.

As you navigate your options, remember that Sandringham is well-serviced by reputable training providers like Monash University, Deakin University, and RMIT University. Regardless of whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced professional, the Pharmacy Courses in Sandringham page has something for everyone to enhance your knowledge and skills in this rewarding field. Start your journey today by exploring the available courses and academic providers!