Comprehensive Overview of the Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) Position at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital
Introduction
The Department of Health offers a promising opportunity for a Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) to join their esteemed team at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Gauteng. This role is designed for individuals who are passionate about the pharmaceutical profession and are eager to contribute to the health and well-being of the community. As a part of the pharmacy department, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in the medication management process, directly impacting patient care and safety.
In this article, we will provide a thorough breakdown of the job requirements, key responsibilities, essential skills, and other important details about the role. Whether you are an aspiring pharmacist assistant or are simply looking to explore the job requirements for this position, this guide will offer in-depth insights.
Job Title: Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) Grade 1 & 2
Reference Number: refs/021844
Directorate: Pharmacy
Number of Posts: 1
Employer: Department of Health
Location: Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, Gauteng
Closing Date: 23-10-2024
Package:
- Grade 1: R250,947 – R282,921 per annum (plus benefits)
- Grade 2: R290,436 – R307,221 per annum (plus benefits)
The remuneration package for this position is competitive and includes additional benefits, such as medical aid, pension, and possibly housing allowances, making it an attractive career opportunity.
Role Requirements
Grade 1 Requirements:
- Post-Basic Qualification: The candidate must have a post-basic pharmacist assistant qualification, which must be registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC). This allows the individual to work as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic).
- Current Registration with SAPC: The applicant must be currently registered with the SAPC, which is a mandatory requirement.
- Experience: There is no required experience after registration with SAPC for Grade 1. Fresh graduates or individuals with no work experience after registration are welcome to apply.
Grade 2 Requirements:
- Post-Basic Qualification: Similar to Grade 1, candidates applying for Grade 2 must also have a post-basic pharmacist assistant qualification registered with SAPC.
- Current Registration with SAPC: Applicants must be registered with SAPC at the time of application.
- Experience: For Grade 2, candidates must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience after their registration with SAPC as a Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic).
Additional Skills and Qualifications:
- Computer Literacy: While not mandatory, computer skills are highly beneficial, as the role involves record-keeping and managing patient prescriptions.
- Basic Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication skills are necessary for effectively interacting with patients, healthcare staff, and other stakeholders in the hospital setting.
- Knowledge of Pharmaceutical Processes: The candidate should have basic knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry, including understanding relevant legislation, policies, and good pharmacy practices.
- Record Keeping and Drug Supply Management: A good understanding of inventory control, stock taking, and the dispensing process is essential for this role.
- Teamwork: The individual must be able to work effectively within a team of healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, nurses, and doctors.
- Personal Integrity and Commitment: High levels of personal integrity and a genuine passion for the pharmaceutical profession are key to excelling in this role.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) will work closely with the pharmacist and will be responsible for a range of duties, including:
1. Dispensing Medication:
- Dispensing both inpatient and outpatient medications as prescribed by healthcare professionals.
- Ensuring that the correct dosage, formulation, and instructions are provided.
- Managing the timely distribution of medications to wards and patients, ensuring accuracy and preventing medication errors.
2. Issuing Medication to Wards:
- Coordinating the distribution of prescribed medication to various hospital wards.
- Ensuring medication is available for patients on time to avoid any treatment delays.
3. Stock Management:
- Assisting in managing medication stock both in the pharmacy store and within the hospital wards.
- Ensuring that stock is stored appropriately, and that it is rotated in compliance with shelf-life requirements.
- Monitoring stock levels and assisting in reordering supplies to prevent shortages.
4. Pre-packing and Shelving Medication:
- Assisting in the pre-packing of medications according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the pharmacist.
- Ensuring that all medication is appropriately labeled, shelved, and stored for easy access and use.
5. Assisting with Stock Taking:
- Participating in regular stocktaking procedures to verify inventory levels.
- Assisting with reconciling the actual stock against recorded quantities.
6. Order, Receive, and Distribute Pharmaceuticals:
- Assisting the pharmacist in the ordering process for pharmaceuticals, ensuring all requisitions are accurate and timely.
- Receiving pharmaceutical deliveries and verifying quantities and expiry dates before distributing them to relevant hospital units.
7. Repackaging Medicines:
- Assisting with the repackaging of medications as per the standards and policies outlined by the responsible pharmacist.
- Ensuring that medication is repackaged correctly to ensure safety, compliance, and quality.
8. Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs):
- Following SOPs, good pharmacy practices, and the norms and standards set by the South African Pharmacy Council.
- Adhering to pharmaceutical legislation and hospital protocols to maintain high safety standards.
9. General Housekeeping and Administration:
- Maintaining cleanliness and organization in the pharmacy area.
- Performing administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, and maintaining patient medication records.
- Assisting with the general functioning of the pharmacy as required by the supervising pharmacist.
10. Supporting the Pharmacist:
- Carrying out additional duties as assigned by the pharmacist, including answering queries, assisting with patient inquiries, and supporting pharmacists in clinical and technical tasks.
Work Environment and Conditions
The successful applicant will be employed at the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, a prominent healthcare facility in Gauteng. As part of the hospital pharmacy team, the pharmacist assistant will work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. The nature of the work requires a high degree of attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to handle a variety of tasks simultaneously.
The working hours are typically in line with hospital shifts, which may include nights, weekends, and public holidays depending on the operational needs of the pharmacy department.
Application Process and Important Notes
Application Requirements:
- Z83 Form: All candidates must submit a completed Z83 application form, which is available from the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) website or any public service department. This form must be completed fully, signed, and initialed.
- CV Submission: A detailed and updated CV is mandatory. This should provide a comprehensive outline of the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and skills relevant to the position.
- Documentation: While documents such as qualifications and identity documents are not required at the application stage, candidates who are shortlisted will be required to submit certified copies of relevant documents before the interview.
Submission Instructions:
- Applications can be submitted online via the Professional Job Centre (http://professionaljobcentre.gpg.gov.za) or delivered physically to Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital, Admin Building, Cnr. Fuel and Oudtshoorn Street, Coronationville, or mailed to Private Bag X20, Newclare 2112.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity:
The Department of Health is committed to creating a diverse workforce and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds, including gender, race, and individuals with disabilities. The Department ensures a fair recruitment process that aligns with public service standards.
Verification and Screening:
Successful candidates will undergo various suitability checks, including:
- Reference Checks
- Identity Verification
- Qualification Verification
- Criminal Record Checks
- Financial Stability Check
Additionally, all new staff members are subject to medical surveillance as required by health and safety regulations.
Conclusion
The Pharmacist Assistant (Post Basic) position at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital offers an exciting and impactful career opportunity for individuals passionate about healthcare and pharmacy. The role involves a range of essential duties that support the hospital’s daily operations, contributing directly to patient care and the efficient functioning of the pharmacy department.
For candidates who meet the qualifications and are driven by a strong desire to work in the healthcare sector, this position represents a meaningful opportunity for career growth, skill development, and the chance to make a difference in the lives of patients.
If you are interested in this rewarding career opportunity, make sure to submit your application before the closing date of 23 October 2024, and take the next step toward joining an essential healthcare team in Gauteng.