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Pharmacy Courses in Strathfield

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Pharmacy courses in Strathfield

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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

Strathfield, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a hub for aspiring pharmacy professionals looking to make a mark in the healthcare industry. Courses.com.au offers a comprehensive range of Pharmacy Courses in Strathfield, catering to individuals at different stages in their career. From beginner programmes such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy and the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy to advanced qualifications like the Master of Pharmacy, there is a suitable course for everyone. With 21 courses available, students can find the perfect fit for their educational and career aspirations.

For newcomers to the pharmacy field, the selection of beginner courses such as the Certificate III in Retail and the Infection Control Skill Set (Retail) is designed to equip them with the fundamental skills needed in community pharmacies. These preparatory courses are ideal for those without prior experience, enabling them to enter this vital sector with confidence. Local training providers such as The Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Aurora TPS cater to face-to-face learning, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Experienced learners seeking higher qualifications will find extensive options in Strathfield, including advanced courses such as the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice and the Graduate Certificate in Pharmacy Practice. Additionally, the local campuses of institutions like The University of Sydney and Western Sydney University provide advanced learning opportunities for those looking to excel in specialised pharmacy roles such as pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and optical dispensers.

Students interested in branching into related areas can explore courses in Psychology, Pathology, and Nutrition and Dietetics alongside traditional pharmacy education. This diversification enhances their employment prospects in a competitive job market. There are also opportunities to specialise further with qualifications like the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing, providing additional pathways to develop a fulfilling career in health and wellness.

With a total of 21 Pharmacy courses and numerous local training providers, Strathfield is an excellent location for students to embark on their pharmacy education journey. Offering options for beginners to advanced learners, the region is rich with educational resources, making it an ideal choice for those aiming to join the healthcare industry. For more information, explore the full range of Pharmacy Courses in Strathfield available on Courses.com.au.