How to Become A Pharmacist Assistant South Africa

Pharmacy assistants help pharmacists order, prepare and dispense medicines. See how you could use your customer service skills in a pharmacy.

What does a pharmacy assistant do?

Pharmacy assistants assist with drug dispensing by measuring, compounding, packaging, and distributing medications. A pharmacy assistant’s duties and responsibilities vary depending on where they work (in a hospital or community pharmacy).

Is pharmacy assistant Easy?

The work is demanding. It requires both accuracy and efficiency, and there is no room for error. Pharmacy assistants are on their feet for most of their shift. They may be required to lift and move heavy items.

Can a pharmacist assistant open a pharmacy?

PHARMACIST’S ASSISTANT

This category of pharmacy support personnel would be able to practice in any sector of pharmacy i.e. manufacturing, wholesale, community or institutional pharmacy in either the public or the private sector.

Below is How to Become A Pharmacist Assistant South Africa

Pharmacy Assistant Education and Training

Completing a postsecondary certificate program can help these professionals find work, and individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field should take math courses, study anatomy and physiology, or complete an internship to gain practical experience.

A pharmacist assistant doesn’t need to be certified to find entry-level employment. On-the-job training teaches customer service and clerical skills for supporting retail and clinical pharmacists.

Certificate Program

A pharmacist assistant certificate program focuses on mathematics, anatomy and physiology, computer applications and the principles and ethics of the pharmaceutical field. Students participate in a practicum to acquire hands-on training in the field.

Students must submit the results of a TB skin test and pass a background check before being allowed to participate in the practicum. Some schools require certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Career Info for Pharmacy Assistants

A pharmacist assistant handles many of the customer service and clerical tasks at a pharmacy, allowing pharmacists to address medical concerns and dispense prescriptions.

An assistant must have good record-keeping skills and the ability to communicate effectively with customers who may be in a stressful situation. Some pharmacist assistants may track inventory stock shelves. An assistant must have the ability to use cash registers and make transactions.

Gain on-the-job experience under the guidance of a senior Pharmacy Assistant or a Pharmacist.

Start your formal training with a Certificate II In Community Pharmacy registered training organization.

If you want to run the front-of-house operations and take on a Senior Pharmacy Assistant role, the Certificate IV in Community Pharmacy (SIR40116) will provide you with further skills and knowledge.

CAREER REQUIREMENT

Required EducationHigh school diploma and on-the-job training OR completion of a pharmacy assistant certificate program
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)4% for all pharmacy technicians*
Median Annual Salary (May 2019)$33,950 for all pharmacy technicians*

Below are Required Qualifications needed Become A Pharmacist Assistant South Africa

Certificate (National Senior Certificate/NC(V) )

Learnership: Basic Level Pharmacist Assistance

Learnership: Post Basic Level Pharmacist Assistance (NQF Level 4)

Workplace experience

How much do Pharmacist Assistant earn in South Africa?

The average salary for a Pharmacist Assistant is 10,040 per month in South Africa, which is 59% lower than the average Dis-Chem Pharmacies salary of 24,522 per month for this job.

How long does it take to train to be a pharmacy assistant in South Africa ?

Training to become a pharmacy technician takes two-years. It combines practical work with study as either a distance learning or college-based course.

Is pharmacy assistant a good job in South Africa ?

A Pharmacy Assistant’s Job Is Rewarding

Last but certainly not least, a pharmacy assistant’s job is extremely rewarding. You’ll be greeting customers all day either in person or by phone, and you’ll be working as part of a team helping to make sure that people in your community get the medications they need.

Is pharmacy assistant in demand in South Africa ?

Due to the increase of prescription drug use, our ageing population, and other health care sector needs, there are not enough Pharmacy Assistant graduates to fill demand, and the unemployment rate is accordingly low. Job openings are also expected to increase quickly over the coming years.

What makes a good pharmacy assistant in South Africa ?

Good literacy skills, basic computer skills, and mathematical knowledge are required. Customer service skills are also necessary, as often the pharmacy assistant is the first person a customer speaks with and the person who can immediately help with their prescriptions. Able to clearly explain instructions to customers.

What does a pharmacy assistant do in South Africa ?

Not only do pharmacy assistants help pharmacists fill prescriptions, they also answer customer questions, handle payment transactions and ensure the shelves are stocked with the proper over-the-counter medication.

How long does it take to be a pharmacist assistant in South Africa?

Most certificate programs can be completed within a year or less, while associate degree programs typically take two years to complete. Coursework covers technical and practical training in the following areas: Pharmacy law.

What is pharmacy assistant course?

Become a Pharmacy Assistant. The course provides an opportunity to interact with and learn from highly qualified and experienced professionals. The retail pharmacy is a vital health advisory centre in which graduates play an important role in.

How long is school for pharmacist?

Pharmacy school consists of a four-year Doctor of Pharmacy degree program, followed by an optional one- or two-year residency program. As such, pharmacy school will take most graduates four to six years to complete.