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Pharmacy Courses in Summer Hill

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Pharmacy courses in Summer Hill

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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

If you are looking to advance your career in the pharmacy sector, Summer Hill offers a diverse range of Pharmacy courses tailored to both beginners and experienced learners. Whether you are interested in starting your journey with the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy, there are offerings designed specifically for those with no prior experience. For those further along in their careers, advanced qualifications such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are readily available to help you achieve your professional goals.

Summer Hill is well-serviced by several reputable training providers. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia offers foundational courses such as the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy, while the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing provides specialised training for those looking to excel in optical professions. Furthering your studies can be achieved at institutions such as the University of Sydney and UTS, which offer advanced courses like the Master of Pharmacy and the Graduate Certificate in Pharmacy Practice.

Embarking on a pharmacy career in Summer Hill opens numerous possibilities in roles such as pharmacy assistant, community pharmacist, or retail manager. With 21 different pharmacy courses available, you can select the right pathway that suits your aspirations. The support provided by local training organisations, including the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia and the Australia Learning Institute, ensures you have access to high-quality education that meets industry standards. Explore your options today on the Pharmacy Courses in Summer Hill page and take the first step towards a rewarding career in this vital sector.