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Pharmacy Courses in Villawood

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Pharmacy courses in Villawood

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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're looking to embark on a rewarding career in the pharmacy sector, Villawood offers a variety of courses to suit every level of experience. Whether you're a beginner keen to learn the basics or an experienced professional seeking to advance your career, you can find the perfect fit among the Pharmacy courses in Villawood. With 21 courses available, students can explore beginner options like the Certificate II in Community Pharmacy SIR20116 or the Certificate III in Community Pharmacy SIR30116, perfect for those with no prior qualifications.

For those who already have experience in the field, Villawood also provides a selection of advanced courses. Consider enrolling in the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy Dispensary SIR40216 or the Master of Pharmacy. With 17 advanced courses available, there's an opportunity for every pharmacist to further their career. Embrace specialisation in areas such as Medicine or Allied Health to enhance your professional expertise.

Several well-regarded training providers operate in and around the Villawood area, making it convenient for students to study face-to-face. Institutions such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and Benchmark College offer a range of pharmacy courses tailored to meet industry requirements. Additional options include the University of Sydney and UTS, known for their high-quality degree programs in pharmacy and related fields.

Embarking on a pharmacy career can lead to numerous fulfilling job roles, from pharmacy assistants to advanced practice pharmacists. Start your journey today by exploring available courses in Villawood, including specialisations in Nursing or Audiology. With support from reputable providers and a wide selection of courses available, you can confidently step into the pharmacy field. Discover your pathway to success with the vibrant Pharmacy courses in Villawood today!