As the health sector expands so do the tasks professionals have to perform, which makes pharmacy assistants a fundamental piece in the health care chain. They count pills, label bottles, record and store medication and even help patients with prescriptions. From having a friendly interaction with a customer to helping them feel better by recommending the right medication, choosing to become a pharmacy assistant can make a rewarding career choice.
But what do pharmacy assistants do? They are responsible for a variety of tasks, which range from providing customer service, to submitting insurance claims. Also, confirming the prescriptions each patient gets is one of the roles associated with this field, along with referring questions and concerns to the pharmacist on duty.
“Pharmacists don’t have a lot of time”, says a student from Manitoba to a health news outlet. “As pharmacy assistants, we can make their jobs easier and more productive by doing some detective work with patients to get their medication history. That and some of our other duties help give pharmacists the time they need to focus on the patient and to more effectively collaborate with other members of the patient’s care team.”
There are flexible learning options
In Canada, there are no mandatory requirements to work as a pharmacy assistant; however, getting the training and the set of skills that comes with it, will allow you to perform the position well and evolve in the industry. The blended learning option that ERP College offers enables students to get a diploma in 29 weeks, with schedule options that are able to suit their daily lives. The program includes a practicum where they can get hands-on experience, apply what they learned in the classroom, and get the confidence required to apply for a position.
Furthermore, students get assessment on how to apply for financial support, how to write their resumes, and how to perform their careers.
The program is designed to teach students the technical and clerical aspects of the pharmaceutical departments including inventory maintenance, record keeping, the latest trend of pharmacy equipment, mathematical skills related to pharmacy, and prescription. This program reflects the current trends and practices in Canada.
Completing this training will show employers that you are really interested in the field.
“Getting trained as a pharmacy assistant will open the door to many career opportunities, which makes it perfect for the people interested in medicine and customer service, and who are looking for a long term career with possibilities and challenges.”
There is a variety of advancement opportunities
Getting trained as a pharmacy assistant will open the door to many career opportunities, which makes it perfect for the people interested in medicine and customer service, and who are looking for a long term career with possibilities and challenges.
As a pharmacy assistant you can work in the retail environment, interact with patients and support pharmacists, as they run the pharmacy. Working in a hospital setting is also an option, by performing alongside a licensed pharmacist, to distribute medicines to patients.
Pharmacy is continuously expanding
Becoming a pharmacy assistant is the right decision if you are looking to enter a field that is growing in Canada. According to this study done by the Government of Canada, new job postings are expected to surge as a result of “expansion demand and retirements. Employment growth is expected to be slightly higher than the average for all occupations. Population aging is expected to lead to an increase in the share of the population in need of medication to treat health conditions, adding to the demand for pharmacists”. Therefore, taking online courses and earning qualifications to become a pharmacy assistant can put you on the path to a lifetime of secure yet challenging jobs in this field..
Pharmacy assistants help others
One of the best parts about being a pharmacy assistant is being able to make a difference in people’s lives every day. By using your skill set to assist others in a vital area such as health care. By assisting others to resolve problems or answering questions will give your position a sense of purpose and instead of just a job, you will have a fulfilling career helping out your community and being part of the solution.
In spite of being understated, being able to connect with others at the cashier, or helping them understand the instructions for a certain medication, will give you friendly interactions that will make your day, and theirs as they were able to meet someone who stopped to listen and understand their needs.
Pharmacy assistants are always on the move
If you are looking for a job that can keep you moving, and not sitting in front of a desk, as a pharmacy assistant you will be able to tick this box. Assistants are required to be constantly moving, either stocking shelves, packaging prescriptions, and managing customer transactions, all on the same day.
References
- Daly, M. (2014, March 19). 140319-Pharmacy-Assistants. When a good assist becomes the goal. https://professionals.wrha.mb.ca/old/extranet/inspire/2014/140319-Pharmacy-Assistants.php.
- Mae, G. (2020, September 15). 3 Tips for Securing a Job as a Pharmacy Assistant. International Career Institute UK. https://www.icieducation.co.uk/blog/3-tips-for-securing-a-job-as-a-pharmacy-assistant/.
- Mae, G. (2021, May 13). Pharmacy Assistant Job Description Sample. HR Resources | Recruitment Best Practices. https://www.monster.co.uk/advertise-a-job/hr-resources/hr-strategies/job-descriptions/pharmacy-assistant-job-description/.
- Pharmacy Assistant Job Description Sample. HR Resources | Recruitment Best Practices. (2021, May 13). https://www.monster.co.uk/advertise-a-job/hr-resources/hr-strategies/job-descriptions/pharmacy-assistant-job-description/.
- Pharmacy Assistant. Career Description – Health Match BC – British Columbia Physician, Nurse, and Allied Health Recruitment – Canada. (n.d.). https://www.healthmatchbc.org/Jobs-in-BC/Health-Career-Directory/Career-Description.aspx?careerId=36.
