Description

Pharmacy and other dispensing assistants work under the supervision of pharmacists or other relevant health professionals to dispense drugs and medicines, issue pre-packaged prescriptions, sell over-the-counter medication, dispense spectacles and contact lenses and other related products.

Main Tasks

  • Checks received prescriptions for legality and accuracy and confirms patients’ or customers’ details;
  • Maintains records of prescriptions received and drugs issued;
  • Checks stock levels, rotates stock, orders new stock from supplying companies and ensures that products are stored appropriately;
  • Arranges displays of merchandise;
  • Relays information to customers under the direction of pharmacist or other health professional;
  • Carries out sales transaction, wraps and packages goods.

Qualifications

Entrants usually possess GCSEs/S grades. Training is typically received on-the-job, supplemented by study towards vocational qualifications. NVQs/ SVQs are available in relevant areas and at various levels, and apprenticeships may be available.

UK Prospects

89300 Workforce Size
4.49% Predicted decline 2026 - 2035

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