A qualified Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant is responsible for providing pharmaceutical care services (within the scope of practice) and performing day-to-day dispensary administration according to the company’s Standard Operating Plans. To become a qualified pharmacist’s assistant, the learner is expected to work in a registered pharmacy on a full-time basis. The program consists of two levels: basic and post-basic.
Becoming a Pharmacist Assistant
The three requirements to become a pharmacist assistant are:
- Post-secondary education
- Experience
- A criminal record check
A pharmacist assistant works in a drug dispensing role within a pharmacy. The assistant’s responsibilities include creating and maintaining patient files, placing orders for pharmaceutical supplies, and operating the cash register. You should also be able to direct patients’ medication-related questions to the pharmacist.
Job Description and Duties
A pharmacy assistant is a healthcare professional who provides customer care, fills prescriptions, manages inventory, and maintains records. Their role varies depending on healthcare demands. Under the pharmacist’s supervision, an assistant’s core duty is to provide technical support. This involves:
- Filling Prescriptions
- Preparing IV Admixtures
- Maintaining Detailed Records
- Answering Customer Queries
- Checking Expired Medications
- Notifying Low Stock
- Receiving/Unpacking Supplies
- Ensuring Proper Stocking & Clean Work Areas
Required Skills
Skills needed for a pharmacy assistant include:
- Organization
- Communication
- Attention To Detail
- Computer Literacy
Depending on the pharmacy type and size, duties vary, but all assistants perform administrative and customer service tasks crucial for smooth functioning.
As a pharmacy assistant, you have the opportunity to earn a high salary and receive excellent benefits. Requirements include a Grade 12 or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification, post-basic pharmacist assistant qualification registered with the Pharmacy Council, experience working in a hospital or retail pharmacy environment, and advanced computer literacy.
With the necessary qualifications and training, pharmacy assistants can begin rewarding careers supporting pharmacist teams in delivering quality care.