Do you want to be a...

Dispensary Assistant

Also known as Dispensary Technician and Pharmacy Assistant. Dispensary assistants work under the supervision of a pharmacist to prepare medicines, advise customers on non-medicinal products and assist with stock control.

Dispensary assistants have a high level of contact with the public and may have to work nights and weekends.

They must also work within the bounds of legislation when providing advice to customers and selling certain medicines.

TASKS

Dispensary assistants may perform the following tasks:

refer prescriptions to the pharmacist
assist in the preparation of medicines
select stock and attach dispensing and cautionary labels
put medication into administration containers
use computers for routine maintenance procedures
carry out customer service duties, such as answering enquiries and advising customers on appropriate products for use in relation to certain health-related conditions
operate cash registers

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

careful and methodical
willing to learn new skills
good communication skills
able to deal sensitively with customers' needs

Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a dispensary assistant without formal qualifications.

You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in community pharmacy or hospital-health services pharmacy support. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a dispensary assistant through a traineeship in Community Pharmacy or Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Retail Services or Health Training Packages that will expand your career opportunities within these industries.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most dispensary assistants are employed in the retail sector, although opportunities also exist in the health and community services area. There is potential for advancement for those who show initiative, enthusiasm and willingness to learn, especially in larger pharmacies. Skills gained are often transferable to related industries such as retail and beauty.