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Pharmacy Courses in Thornlie

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Pharmacy courses in Thornlie

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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

Discover the rewarding world of pharmacy with comprehensive Pharmacy Courses in Thornlie. Whether you're a beginner or looking to advance your career, Thornlie offers a variety of courses tailored to meet your needs. For those new to the field, consider enrolling in the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy. These courses provide essential skills for a fulfilling career in community pharmacy settings. Local providers like the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and NMTAFE offer these valuable training programs right in your area.

If you have prior experience in pharmacy, explore our selection of advanced courses that can help elevate your career. Programs such as the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary and the Graduate Diploma of Advanced Pharmacy Practice are designed for those looking to specialise further within the field. Institutions like UWA and Curtin University provide access to these advanced learning opportunities, ensuring you'll receive top-notch training from reputable providers close to home.

Thornlie is not just a place to study; it’s a vibrant community that supports your educational journey. With over 14 pharmacy courses available, you can find the right fit for your career aspirations, whether that is in community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy support, or even optical dispensing with programs like the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing. Don't forget to check out specialised areas within the pharmacy field, such as Naturopathy and Oncology, for even more tailored learning experiences.

With numerous physical training providers located in or near Thornlie, students have the unique advantage of gaining hands-on, face-to-face training. Engage with expert instructors at institutions like ACOD or Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, who are there to guide you on your path to success. Don’t miss the opportunity to start your journey in pharmacy today — browse our available courses and take a significant step toward a rewarding career in health care.