Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant – Sunninghill: In-depth Guide and Career Insights

Introduction to the Role

The role of a Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant in the pharmaceutical industry is both essential and multifaceted. This position, particularly for Dis-Chem Pharmacies in Sunninghill, offers an opportunity to actively contribute to healthcare by providing essential pharmaceutical care services. The responsibilities of a Pharmacist Assistant extend beyond simple dispensing and require a comprehensive understanding of medications, patient care, and regulatory compliance.

This article delves deep into the qualifications, job responsibilities, competencies, and skills required for this position. It aims to give prospective candidates a clear and detailed understanding of the expectations and daily tasks associated with this role while also providing valuable career insights.

Company Overview: Dis-Chem Pharmacies

Dis-Chem Pharmacies is one of South Africa’s leading pharmacy groups, known for its extensive range of healthcare products, exceptional customer service, and commitment to community wellness. With stores across the country, Dis-Chem offers a professional work environment, advanced training, and opportunities for career growth. The company’s dedication to excellence makes it an attractive employer for qualified professionals in the pharmaceutical sector.

Minimum Requirements for the Position

To qualify for the Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant role at Dis-Chem Pharmacies, applicants need to meet the following basic criteria:

Educational Qualifications:
- Grade 12/Matric: A completed secondary education is essential for the role.
- Basic Pharmacist Assistant Qualification: This qualification is a stepping stone to becoming a Post Basic Pharmacist Assistant. It ensures foundational knowledge of pharmaceutical practices.
Registration:
- Registered with the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC): Compliance with SAPC regulations is non-negotiable. It ensures that the assistant is legally permitted to perform specific pharmaceutical tasks.
Technical Skills:
- Experience with Unisolv: Familiarity with the Unisolv system is crucial for managing scripts and processing prescriptions efficiently.
- Computer Literacy: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) is needed for administrative tasks and record-keeping.
Language Proficiency:
- A strong command of English is necessary, along with proficiency in a second language to communicate effectively with a diverse customer base.
Work Availability:
- Willingness to work retail hours, including weekends and public holidays, as required by the healthcare sector.

Advantageous Skills and Knowledge

Although not mandatory, having the following additional skills and experiences can give candidates a competitive edge:

Retail/FMCG Knowledge: Understanding retail operations is beneficial for navigating store dynamics and customer interactions.
3rd Additional Language: Multilingual abilities improve communication with a broader patient demographic.
Experience with SAP and E-Scripting: Familiarity with these systems streamlines prescription processing and inventory management.
Knowledge of Drug and Family Planning: Awareness of family planning options and complementary medicines can enhance patient counseling and care.

Detailed Job Description

The duties and responsibilities of a Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant are integral to the smooth functioning of a pharmacy. The role covers several key areas:

1. Dispensing Medications

Selling Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 Medications: Assist patients by providing over-the-counter (OTC) medications while ensuring compliance with pharmaceutical regulations.
Compounding and Preparing Non-Sterile Medicines: Follow precise formulas and standard operating procedures (SOPs) approved by the responsible pharmacist to prepare non-sterile medicines.
Manufacturing Non-Sterile Medicines: Assist in manufacturing processes as per pharmacy protocols.

2. Inventory and Stock Management

Re-Packaging Medicines: Ensure medicines are appropriately re-packaged and labeled according to regulatory standards.
Stock Control: Manage and monitor stock levels of Schedule 1 to Schedule 5 medications, ensuring proper storage and adherence to regulations.
Ordering Medicines: Assist in ordering Schedule 6 substances under the supervision of authorized personnel.

3. Prescription Processing

Reading and Preparing Prescriptions: Accurately interpret prescriptions, select appropriate medications, and prepare them according to the pharmacist’s evaluation.
Data Capture: Enter prescription details accurately into the system, verifying patient information to prevent errors.
Medication Labeling and Packaging: Ensure prescriptions are correctly labeled and packaged, adhering to safety and regulatory guidelines.
Script Verification: Ensure all scripts are checked and signed off by the responsible pharmacist before dispensing.

4. Patient Counseling and Support

Providing Medication Instructions: Clearly explain medication usage, potential side effects, and storage instructions to patients.
Medical Aid Assistance: Inform patients about medical aid procedures, claims, and costs. Assist with queries and script rejections.
Health Promotion: Provide basic health advice and promote wellness products and services.

5. Administrative Duties

Claims Processing: Handle paperwork for medical aid claims and correct any errors identified during the claims process.
Script Tracking: Follow up with patients about prescription collections and upcoming medication refills.
Customer Profiles: Maintain accurate and up-to-date customer profiles, merging duplicate records as necessary.

6. Compliance and Accuracy

Adherence to Regulations: Ensure all activities comply with SAPC and Dis-Chem’s internal SOPs.
Accuracy in Dispensing: Double-check prescriptions for accuracy, paying attention to drug interactions and dosages.
Stock Audits: Participate in bi-annual stock takes and report discrepancies to the dispensary manager.

Competencies and Skills Required

To succeed as a Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant, candidates need to exhibit a range of competencies and skills:

1. Communication Skills

Proficient in English and a Second Language: The ability to communicate clearly with a diverse patient base.
Listening Skills: Effectively understand patient needs and concerns.

2. Customer Service

Patient Care Orientation: Prioritize patient safety and satisfaction.
Empathy and Patience: Offer compassionate care, especially during stressful situations.

3. Attention to Detail

Accuracy: Precision in handling prescriptions, inventory, and administrative tasks.
Awareness of Drug Interactions: Knowledge of common drug interactions and contraindications.

4. Technical Proficiency

Unisolv and MS Office: Ability to manage prescriptions and administrative tasks through software.
E-Scripting and SAP: Knowledge of these systems streamlines pharmacy operations.

5. Problem-Solving Skills

Resolving Prescription Issues: Address medical aid rejections and script errors efficiently.
Stock Management: Quickly identify and resolve stock shortages or discrepancies.

Work Environment and Conditions

Retail Pharmacy Setting

Pharmacist Assistants typically work in retail pharmacy environments, requiring flexibility in working hours. The role may involve:

Standing for Long Periods: Physical stamina is necessary for tasks like dispensing, shelving, and inventory management.
Interacting with Diverse Customers: The ability to remain professional and courteous, even under pressure.

Safety and Compliance

Handling Scheduled Substances: Strict adherence to regulations for handling and storing medications.
Health and Safety Protocols: Following hygiene and safety guidelines to protect staff and patients.

Career Development Opportunities

A position as a Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant can open pathways to further career growth in the pharmaceutical field:

Further Qualifications: Pursue additional training to become a pharmacist.
Specialization: Focus on areas like oncology, HIV treatment, or family planning.
Supervisory Roles: Move into management positions within the pharmacy.

Conclusion

The Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant role at Dis-Chem Pharmacies in Sunninghill offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about healthcare and patient service. With the right qualifications, skills, and dedication, this role can be both rewarding and a stepping stone for further professional growth.

If you meet the requirements and are driven to contribute to the health and well-being of your community, consider applying for this position and embark on a fulfilling career in the pharmaceutical industry.

Post Basic Qualified Pharmacist Assistant