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Pharmacy Courses in Sunshine Beach

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Pharmacy courses in Sunshine Beach

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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 Sunshine Beach provide an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in influencing healthcare through medication management and patient care. With a total of four courses available, students can choose from a variety of programs tailored to their career goals. The vibrant community of Sunshine Beach, located on Australia's picturesque Sunshine Coast, is home to reputable training providers such as RTS Queensland, which offers a Certificate III in Retail, and UniSC, known for its Bachelor of Science (Chemistry). Both institutions provide an ideal environment for students to engage with their studies face to face.

For those who wish to broaden their horizons within the pharmacy field, there are various specialisations available. Interested learners can explore the dynamic spheres of Optician, Cosmetic Surgery, Podiatry, and more, ensuring that they acquire valuable skills relevant to the healthcare industry. These focused study areas equip students with the knowledge necessary to thrive in specialised roles, making them highly sought after in the job market.

Sunshine Beach not only offers a tranquil learning environment but also a gateway to diverse career pathways in healthcare. Students enrolled in pharmacy courses can seamlessly transition into related fields such as Pathology, Medical Technician, and Oncology. Each discipline presents unique challenges and rewards, contributing to a holistic understanding of the healthcare landscape. With hands-on training and local exposure, students will cultivate skills that enhance patient outcomes in Sunshine Beach and beyond.

For those passionate about making a difference in people's lives, pursuing pharmacy courses can lead to fulfilling careers in healthcare, including roles in Physiotherapy, Nursing, Midwifery, and emergency services like Ambulance and Paramedic training. As part of a community-oriented approach, these programs foster collaboration among future healthcare professionals, emphasizing well-rounded learning experiences tailored to local needs. Explore the full range of pharmacy courses available in Sunshine Beach today at Courses.com.au.